You might need to recharge your car’s battery after owning it for a while.
While most will plug their old battery into a recharger for many hours and forget about it, a few of us stare directly at the trickle charger, wondering how long it takes to charge a car battery – particularly if you have somewhere you need to be.
And to be honest, it’s actually fairly complex to work out how long it will take. But here’s our basic explanation.
What Determines How Long a Car Battery Takes To Charge?
A lower amp charger will take a longer time to charge a car’s battery to 100%, but they are the best option for maintaining a healthier unit over a longer period of time.
You need to also consider the level of discharge of the battery as well as its ability to accept the charge quickly, which again will influence the amount of time.
A larger battery will take more time to charge.
If plugged into a four-amp charger, a flat 52Ah battery takes roughly ten hours to fully recharge. But you don’t need to wait for the battery to be fully charged if you want to start your vehicle sooner than the estimated time.
You can use the partially charged battery to start your vehicle within 2 to 4 hours, however, this may affect the battery’s state of health.
The best method of restoring your discharged battery is to use an external source of energy, namely a battery charger.
Using a Smart or Intelligent Charger
A smart (or intelligent) charger maintains battery health and prevents it from draining when not used or in a stationary vehicle. It automatically shuts off when the battery can no longer be charged.
Unlike traditional chargers, smart chargers have various charging modes tailored to specific battery types. They can also recondition car batteries.
When charging car batteries, smart chargers follow a multi-stage cycle. They start by desulphurating (the removal of excess sulphur build-up) the battery to restore its capacity. Then, the charger tests if the battery can accept a charge.
Next, the charger goes through additional steps, including optional battery reconditioning. Once the battery is fully charged, the charger switches to a pulsing trickle charge to maintain the battery level without overcharging it.
Charging times vary based on battery size and discharge level, so it’s difficult to give a specific duration.
To connect the charger correctly, follow the instructions and ensure the car is turned off.
Smart chargers are helpful for keeping motorcycle and marine batteries charged during the off-season or when not in use. They are also beneficial for mechanics who require a fully charged battery in their workshop. Additionally, they are suitable for home use.
In case of a flat car battery while on the go, portable power packs and jump starters are available. These compact devices are convenient to carry in the glove box and often serve as power banks for phones and other devices.
Visit a Willard Xpress Centre or Stockist To Replace The Battery
Those who don’t want to deal with the hassle of recharging a battery and waiting can simply drive into a Willard Xpress or local stockist of Willard Batteries for a new unit.
No waiting is required, and the battery is guaranteed to start your vehicle the first time – every time.
