Considering a Car Battery Charger Purchase: Focus on These Key Specifications
A deeply discharged car battery can often be saved with the help of a charger, but some models with reconditioning or boost functions are necessary for this. One such model is the CTEK CS Free, a mobile automotive battery charger that can be used with a conventional socket charger.
It's important to note that if the car battery remains on the power for too long, damage can occur. Therefore, it's recommended to disconnect the charger after a maximum of 24 hours, even with an automatic shutdown.
The battery voltage for passenger cars is 12V, and the battery type can vary from lead-acid to lithium. For start-stop systems, special battery types such as AGM or EFB are used.
Depending on the battery capacity and charger, it takes between three and twelve hours to charge an automotive battery. Chargers with fast charging functions significantly shorten this period. However, battery capacity plays a minor role in the purchase of a charger.
The CTEK CS Free battery charger charges the starter battery of a car, unlike a jump starter power bank. Optionally, a special solar panel can be purchased for the CTEK CS Free to make it more independent of a socket.
When connected to the mains via the supplied power supply, the CTEK CS Free charges the battery at about five amps. To recharge the built-in charger battery, both energy from the 230V socket and from the 12V socket in the vehicle can be used.
It's worth mentioning that the exception are maintenance chargers that can remain permanently connected. However, the charging process should be monitored with devices without automatic shutdown.
Battery chargers with jump start functions are only conditionally recommended for private use due to their cost, dependence on a fixed power connection, and suitability as quick roadside assistants. Drivers are better advised with a jump starter power bank for emergencies and a charger tailored to their own needs.
According to the manufacturer, the solar panel generates enough energy for a charging cycle on a sunny day. It's the company that produces the CTEK CS Free, a mobile automotive battery charger and one of the first of its kind, is CTEK.
