Homemade battery charger. Automatic charger for car batteries DIY automatic car charger

How to choose it and what you need to know?

When choosing a charger, first of all you need to know the type of battery installed in the car, because some of them require personal attention and approach.

For example, this applies to lead batteries - they require the use of special charges.

For most batteries - almost any universal device is suitable.

Although modern devices allow you to simultaneously charge almost any battery using several values ​​of output power and charging current.

Features of choosing battery charging

Having decided on the type of battery that requires charging, the selection of the best model continues based on other characteristics.

It is advisable to give preference to compact portable models, which are more convenient and easier to handle.

And, when choosing between equipment that operates from a cigarette lighter and from a single-phase network, you should pay attention to the second option - chargers that require standard 220V.

And, as a rule, they first provide half the battery capacity, gradually reducing the power until the final charge.

To protect batteries from overcharging, each device is equipped with a special protection that automatically turns it off when the battery is 100% charged.

Other parameters to consider when choosing a charger include:

• capacity of batteries that need to be charged. For passenger cars it is, on average, from 40 to 62 Ah, for motorcycles – up to 20 Ah, for minibuses – up to 120–160 Ah;
• charging current. 6 A is suitable for batteries with a capacity of up to 60–70 Ah. 12 and 18 A - the best option for minibuses and SUVs;
• price category. The cost of most models is at the level of 2000–3 thousand rubles. More functional equipment will cost 5 thousand or more.

The brand of charger also matters. The most reliable and efficient devices are German-made chargers. While Korean models have an affordable price with fairly good characteristics.

Read also:

Popular charger models

Almost any modern charger can restore the battery of passenger cars and small commercial vehicles within 6–10 hours.

These same devices allow you to restore the functionality of a completely discharged battery. In this case, the time to restore the capacity of a battery with a zero charge is calculated taking into account 10–15% of the reserve.

For example, a device with a current of 6 A will charge a 60 Ah battery not in 10, but in 11–12 hours.

If the battery is charged to a third (it is from this moment that it is recommended to start charging) - accordingly, in 7–8 hours.

If you want to reduce this time, you should buy a more powerful device. At the same time, choosing a device with automatic floating adjustment of parameters will increase the battery life. Setting the charging current to a lower value will increase the charging time, but will also improve recovery. If the charger does not have an automatic adjustment function, the user will have to independently monitor the battery.

Bosch C3 - a simple model for passenger cars

The Bosch C3 car charger, produced by the famous German concern, is the best option for most batteries - from lead-acid to gel.

It has 4 fully automated charging modes, making it possible to restore batteries of various capacities (up to 140 Ah) at positive and negative temperatures.

And high power guarantee correct and fast charging.

And safety systems can warn the user if the battery is connected incorrectly, preventing a short circuit.

Equipment characteristics:

• operating voltage: 220V (50 Hz);
• output voltage: 6V (for charging batteries with a capacity of up to 14 Ah) and 12V (up to 120 Ah);
• charging current: 0.8 A and 3.8 A;
• type of rechargeable batteries: gel (WET, AGM, GEL, VRLA) and lead-acid;
• model cost: from 2300 rub.

Rice. 1. Bosch C3 is a compact and inexpensive, but not very powerful device.

Bosch C7 – maximum functionality

Thanks to the use of the Bosch C7 charger, you can restore the capacity of car batteries of various types - from gel to lead-acid.

In this case, there are no longer 4 modes, like the less functional C7 model, but six:

1. To charge one regular battery with a starting current of 7A;
2. To increase the capacity of gel-type batteries or any batteries in winter (current 7 A);
3. Restoring the battery after complete discharge (current 1.5 A);
4. Maintaining battery power during its replacement;
5. Charging batteries of light commercial vehicles;
6. Increasing the capacity of truck batteries in subzero temperatures.

Technical specifications:

• voltage: operating – 220V, output – 12V and 24V;
• current: 3.5A and 7A;
• battery charging: up to 230 Ah;
• compatibility with batteries: gel and lead;
• cost: from 6500 rub.

Rice. 2. Bosch C7 - a universal device for any battery.

Tesla ZU-40080 – an inexpensive device for truck batteries

The Tesla ZU-40080 charger has relatively large dimensions and provides recovery of lead-acid batteries of various equipment - from ordinary vehicles to boats, motorcycles and even lawn mowers.

The capacity of the charged battery can be in the range of 20–180 Ah, and the charging current reaches 8 A, which allows the device to work with batteries of minibuses and trucks.

For ease of use, the device is equipped with protection systems against incorrect connection, overheating and short circuit, and charging wires 1.4 and 1.7 meters long.

For placement on the wall, the device has special mounts on the shock-resistant and waterproof body.

And the main advantages of the equipment include its minimum price among similar devices.

Main parameters:

• voltage value: input – 220–240V (50 Hz), output – 6/12V;
• charging current: 5.6 A (nominal) and 8 A (maximum);
• maximum capacity of rechargeable batteries: 180 Ah;
• battery type: lead-acid;
• device price: from 1500 rub.

Rice. 3. A Tesla brand device is universal, powerful and affordable.

Deca SM 1270 – compact and versatile

A small device from the Italian brand Deca will restore the batteries of a regular car in just 8–10 hours, depending on the capacity.

And the ability to charge the battery up to 225 Ah allows you to use the device also for working with freight vehicles.

Functionality, expressed in the presence of three operating modes, and charging safety are combined with versatility (the ability to charge batteries of any type).

The only downside is the high price, although it is fully consistent with the capabilities.

Model characteristics:

• operating voltage: 220–240V;
• parameters of connected equipment: 12V, 15–225 Ah;
• charging current: 7 A;
• batteries: AGM, lead and gel;
• cost: from 4500 rub.

Rice. 4. Model SM 1270 – low price and size combined with high functionality.

Lavita LA 192309 – compact set for charging ordinary cars

Another charger, LAVITA LA 192309, has a low price and is a whole set of equipment for restoring any lead-acid batteries.

The disadvantages of the device include the need to manually switch the charge power, weak charging current and the inability to work with batteries with a capacity of more than 80 Ah.

The advantages are a shockproof, fireproof and at the same time lightweight plastic case, low price and complete protection from all unforeseen situations - from incorrect connections, short circuits, overheating and overcharging.

Device parameters:

• voltage: 220V;
• device output voltage: 6V and 12V;
• charge strength: 3.52 A;
• battery characteristics: 12–80 Ah, lead-acid;
• price: from 1500 rub.

Rice. 5. LAVITA LA 192309 device is easy to use and carry.

Read also:

Pulso BC-40100 – a device for charging batteries in the cold

The battery charger is the best option for use in low temperatures.

Made from high-quality metal and plastic, the charger is affordable, relatively small in size, and protected against overheating, overcharging, and improper battery connection.

The high charging current of 10 A and compatibility with batteries with a capacity of 20–200 Ah make it possible to charge batteries in cars, trucks, lawn mowers, SUVs and motorcycles.

Characteristics of Pulso BC-40100:

• mains voltage: 220V;
• output voltage: 6 and 12V;
• charging current: 10 A;
• parameters of rechargeable batteries: lead-acid, capacity 20–200 Ah;
• charger cost: from 2300 rub.

Rice. 6. Pulso BC-40100 is a good option for charging any battery at any temperature.

AIDA 8 super – lightweight universal device

The automatic charger Aida 8 Super is suitable for restoring the capacity and performance of batteries of any type installed on trucks and cars, motorcycles and buses.

The device charges batteries in 3 modes (including storing the battery during non-use periods) and works even with equipment discharged to zero.

This provides complete protection against overcharging and overheating. The model weighs no more than 600 grams and is placed in a small carrying bag.

Hades parameters – 8:

• mains voltage: 150–240V (50 Hz);
• charge current: 4 and 8 A;
• supply voltage: up to 13V;
• batteries: 40–160 Ah, AGM, lead, gel;
• prices: from 2 thousand rubles.

Rice. 7. Aida 8 Super - a combination of small size and serious capabilities.

AIDA 10s – charging and storing powerful batteries

Using the AIDAm-10S model charger, you can restore batteries of any vehicle, regardless of their charge level and ambient temperature.

To start the batteries, a special pre-start mode with a current of 10 Amps is used.

The device is also used to store batteries when they are not in use, which allows them to be preserved for a certain period.

The advantages of the model are its low price and small size, protection against incorrect connection and the ability to be used as a power supply.

Charger parameters:

• permissible network voltage: 150–240V;
• charging currents: 1, 5 and 10 A;
• output voltage: 12V;
• battery type: gel, lead, AGM, 4–180 Ah;
• cost: from 2300 rub.

Rice. 8. Aida 10C is the optimal option for storing batteries of passenger cars and trucks.

AIDA 11 – average price and decent parameters

Charging Aida 11 works in manual and automatic mode, and also allows desulfation - restoring the functionality of batteries.

The model can be used to charge batteries with a capacity of up to 180 Ah, that is, devices installed in regular cars, SUVs, buses and trucks.

The equipment has 4 degrees of protection, average cost and small dimensions.

And among its advantages is the high charging current, thanks to which even a completely discharged 60 Ah car battery is charged in just 7 hours.

Main parameters:

• permissible voltage: output – from 160V to 240V, output – 12V;
• network frequency: 50–60 Hz;
• charging current – ​​from 0 to 10 A;
• type of rechargeable batteries: lead, gel and AGM;
• cost of the device: from 2500 rub.

Rice. 9. Domestic model with good parameters.

Simple and convenient charging AUTO WELLE AW05-1208

The AUTO WELLE brand charger, like all other models in the review, has complete protection against any errors and malfunctions.

And an additional advantage is the moisture protection level IP 65.

Automation of the device’s operation is ensured by a built-in processor, and versatility is provided by the presence of several operating modes and the ability to charge any type of battery with a capacity of up to 160 Ah.

Charging Features:

• charging current: 2 and 8 A;
• rechargeable batteries: lead-acid, AGM and gel, 4–160 Ah;
• voltage: 220V, output – 6V and 12V;
• price: from 2 thousand rubles.

Rice. 10. Model AW05-1208 – user-friendly interface and small size.

The article describes car battery charger, which allows you to set the charging current up to 10 A and automatically turn off battery charging when the set voltage on it is reached. The article provides schematic diagrams and drawingsinstallation of parts,printed circuit board, device design and dana me procedure for setting it up.

Most chargers allow you to set only the required charge current. In simple devices this current is maintained manually, and in some devices it is maintained automatically by current stabilizers. When using such devices, it is necessary to monitor the process of charging the battery to the maximum permissible voltage, which requires appropriate time and attention. The fact is that overcharging the battery leads to boiling of the electrolyte, which shortens its service life. The proposed charger allows you to set the charge current and automatically turn it off when the set voltage value is reached

The charger is built on the basis of an industrial rectifier type VSA-6K (you can use any rectifier of suitable power), converting an alternating voltage of 220 V into a fixed direct voltage of 12 V and 24 B, which are switched by a packet switch. The rectifier is designed for load current up to 24 A and does not contain an anti-aliasing filter. To charge batteries, the rectifier is supplemented with an electronic control circuit that allows you to set the required charging current and the rated voltage for disconnecting the charger from the battery when fully charged.

The charger is mainly intended for charging car batteries voltage 12 V and charging current up to 10 A, and can also be used for other purposes. To charge these batteries, a rectified voltage of 24 V is used, and for batteries with a voltage of 6 V, a voltage of 12 V is used. A smoothing filter cannot be connected to the output of the rectifier, since the thyristor can close only when the voltage reaches zero, and open at the right moment by the control circuit.

Fig. 1 Diagram of the power part of the charger

Schematic diagram of connection rectifier VSA-6K to the electronic control circuit board and to external elements is shown in Fig. 1. The terminals of the charger for connecting the battery are connected to the standard terminals of the front panel of the rectifier X3 and X4. To use fixed DC voltages of 12 V or 24 V when using the device for other purposes, the standard rectifier leads are connected to screw terminals XI and X2 located on the insulating strip next to the fuse FU2, which are covered by a removable cover on the right side wall of the device.

The rectifier voltmeter is connected to the battery connection terminals. The ammeter remains connected to the common “+” circuit and measures both the battery charge current and the load current connected to terminals X1 and X2. Voltage is supplied to the control circuit only when the battery is connected.

Commercially available batteries are usually charged and filled with electrolyte or dry-charged without electrolyte. They only require recharging to rated capacity. Used car batteries also require recharging after maintenance or long periods of inactivity. If it becomes necessary to form and charge a battery from scratch, then initially it must be recharged from a source with a fixed voltage of 12 V through a rheostat, which sets the required charging current. After the battery voltage reaches about 10 V, further operations can be performed by connecting it to terminals X3, X4.

For the subsequent description of the operation of the charger, it should be briefly recalled that the acid batteries used in passenger cars contain six cells. When the voltage on the bank reaches 2.4 V, gas evolution of an explosive oxygen-hydrogen mixture begins, which indicates that the battery is fully charged. Gas evolution destroys the active mass contained in the lead battery plates, therefore, to ensure maximum battery life, the voltage on each element should not exceed 2.3 V on average, also taking into account that the internal resistances of the elements and the voltages on them may differ slightly from each other friend. This ultimately corresponds to a maximum battery voltage of 13.8V, at which the charger should automatically turn off.

Device operation

The control circuit diagram is shown in Fig. 2,installation of parts is shown in Fig. 3, and the printed circuit board is shown in Fig. 4. The control circuit consists of a constant voltage amplifier on transistors VT1, VT2, VT3 and a circuit with an analogue of a unijunction transistor on VT4 and VT5, which controls the thyristor VS1 to set the required charging current. Using an analogue instead of a conventional unijunction transistor (for example, KT117A-G) is advantageous in that by choosing transistors and resistors R9 - R1 1 you can select its necessary characteristics.

When the battery voltage is less than 13.8 V, transistor VT3 is closed, and VT2 and VT1 are open. Pin 6 of the control board receives positive half-voltage waves from the diode bridge of the rectifier, which are superimposed on the constant voltage of the battery and, through open VT1, VD1, R8, are supplied to the thyristor current regulator.

Fig.2 Control diagram

It works as follows: voltage from R8 is supplied to the base VT4 and through the charging current setting regulator R12 to capacitor C1.

At the initial moment, VT4 and VT5 are closed. When C1 is charged to the operating voltage of an analogue of a unijunction transistor, a pulse is sent from the emitter VT5 to the control electrode of the thyristor, which opens and closes the battery charging circuit. In this case, C1 is quickly discharged through the low resistance of the open analogue of the unijunction transistor. When the next pulse arrives, the process repeats. The lower the resistance value R12 (Fig. 1), the faster C1 charges and VS1 opens, as a result of which it remains in the open state longer, and the greater the charging current. The glow of VD1 indicates that the battery is charging.

When the battery voltage reaches 13.8 IN, which corresponds to its full charge, transistor VT3 opens, and VT2 and VT1 close, the voltage on the thyristor control circuit disappears, the battery charge stops and the VD1 LED goes out.

Setting up the device

Setting up the charger is carried out with its front panel open and consists of setting the charging current cut-off voltage. To do this, you need to connect a voltmeter with an accuracy class of no worse than 1.5 to the battery, make sure that there is a voltage on it of at least 10.8 V (discharging a 12 V acid battery to a voltage below 10.8 V is not allowed), set the charging current (value 0.1 battery capacity), and set the trimmer resistor R5 to the middle position and start charging. If the charger turns off when the battery voltage is less than 13.8 V, then the slider of resistor R5 must be turned at a certain angle counterclockwise until the LED lights up and continue charging to 13.8 V, and if the device does not turn off at this voltage, turn the slider clockwise until the device turns off. In this case, the LED should go out. This completes the setup of the circuit and the front panel is installed in its place. For further operation of the charger, it is necessary to note which position of the needle on the standard voltmeter corresponds to a voltage of 13.8 V, so as not to use an additional voltmeter.

Fig.3

Fig.4

Fig.5

Structurally, the control board, thyristor with cooler, LED VD1 and variable resistor R12 for setting the charging current are fixed on the inside of the front panel (Fig. 5). The thyristor radiator is fixed on the panel using two textolite strips. It is attached to one with two M3 countersunk screws, and the other serves as an insulating gasket. The control board is secured with an additional nut at the ammeter terminal, which should not touch its printed tracks.

In conclusion, it should be noted that this device can provide a charging current of up to 24 A when installing a more powerful thyristor and fuse FU2 for a current of 25 A.

Anatoly Zhurenkov

Literature

1. S. Elkin Application of thyristor regulators with phase-pulse control // Radioammator. - 1998.-No.9.-P.37-38.

2. V. Voevoda Simple thyristor charger // Radio. - 2001. - No. 11. - P.35.

Every car owner must take care of the uninterrupted operation of the battery, the most important component of electrical equipment, without which starting the engine is not possible. Battery failure as a result of discharge is a fairly common occurrence, especially in winter, so the issue of purchasing products that restore functionality is especially relevant for cold regions.

TOP 10 chargers for car batteries.

The battery does not produce electricity, it only stores it and then releases it. The battery is charged from the car's electric generator, but full charging is not achieved, so after some time the battery loses its charge, requiring the connection of external devices. At above-zero temperatures, the engine can start even on a half-charged battery, but starts are significantly reduced if the battery charge is incomplete. Experienced motorists know how important it is to always have a life-saving remedy on hand to prevent sudden battery discharge.

The car market offers countless different chargers of varying quality and cost, but the choice of device must be approached with all responsibility. You should take into account the fact that not every charger can fit your car’s battery, so it is important to know what type of battery the car is equipped with. The 2018 rating of car battery chargers will help you navigate among the variety of types and manufacturers. Here you can find devices with different characteristics in a wide price range of domestic and foreign production.

Types of battery chargers

Among the range of car battery chargers you can find examples with additional options. In addition to the main function, they can perform many others, but the cost in this case will be much higher, so before purchasing you need to decide which of the add-ons will actually be used and whether the overpayment is worth it.

Battery charging devices are divided into three main types:

• chargers are used exclusively for charging the battery;
• starters are used to start the engine;
• charging and starting devices combine these two functions.

To start the engine using the device, you must connect to the power supply, so if the device will only be used to restore the battery capacity, it is not rational to overpay for the function that ensures starting the engine. There are also portable chargers and jump starters equipped with their own battery. Using a modern device of this type, you can start a car that has stalled far from power sources.

Charging and starting devices for batteries are:

1. Pulse. The advantages of devices of this type are compactness and low weight, as well as the presence of protective mechanisms. They are more convenient to use, higher in cost than transformer chargers, but subsequently the purchase is justified. The operating principle of pulsed devices is based on the creation of high-frequency currents, for which large dimensions are unnecessary.
2. Transformer devices are much larger and it is inconvenient to have such a device with you all the time; they are usually used for stationary battery maintenance. The device operates by reducing the voltage through standard conversion. Transformer chargers are considered reliable, easy to repair, but are heavy.

When choosing the best charger for a car battery, you should carefully study the characteristics of the devices, weighing all the advantages and disadvantages. In addition, you need to pay attention to the type and parameters of the battery; this information is contained in the vehicle passport.

Main characteristics of chargers

The main task of each external charger is to restore the capacity of the car’s battery, during which alternating current from a 220 Volt network is converted into direct current - 12 Volts. To find out which charger is best suited for a particular battery, consider the most common ones:

1. WET are lead-acid batteries using liquid electrolyte, they are installed on most cars, and are suitable for any charger.
2. AGM – batteries with glass fiber material.
3. GEL – battery with gel electrolyte.

To charge an AGM or GEL battery, specially designed or universal devices are used that have a mode switching function to ensure interaction with these types of batteries. Depending on the setting method, chargers can be manual, semi-automatic or automatic. When purchasing, it is better to give preference to the latter, then the charging process is fully controlled by the software part of the device, and, if necessary, it is switched off independently.

Operating modes

Modern charger models allow you to choose the function of charging batteries with gel-like or absorbed electrolyte. It is very important to ensure that the appropriate operating mode is set, because unlike WET batteries, even a slight increase in voltage can lead to battery failure.

When choosing a device, ask about the “Boost” option, which provides fast charging with increased current. Thanks to it, the ability to start the engine will appear just a few minutes after the start of the process of restoring the battery capacity. In emergency circumstances, this function can be very helpful to the driver. Desulfation using a charger reanimates the battery using the principle of multiple charging, so the presence of this function can significantly extend the battery life.

The best automatic chargers not only handle the process without your participation, following a given algorithm when charging the battery and eliminating the possibility of overvoltage, but also recognize the capacity and level of battery discharge, independently adjusting to the desired operating mode. Some devices can simultaneously charge several batteries using a serial or parallel connection, but this function is unlikely to be useful to the average motorist.

Voltage supplied by the charger

The output voltage is one of the key parameters of the device; it must match the voltage of the on-board network. The most commonly used batteries are 12 Volt batteries, so most devices are designed for them, but there are also chargers that produce 24 Volts, adapted to work with two 12 Volt batteries (as a rule, trucks or minibuses are equipped with them). The minimum voltage corresponding to 6 Volts is inherent in motorcycle batteries.

Charging current

The rated current is 10% of the battery capacity, so you can determine which charger will be best for your battery by looking at the car's documentation. Thus, for a battery with a capacity of 60 A/h, the charge current should be 6 A. An exception is the option for accelerated battery recovery, but it should not be abused, since such measures can lead to rapid wear of the battery. Automated devices themselves choose the current supply mode, but the best solution would be to purchase a device with an adjustable charge.

Types of protection and safety

When choosing which charger to buy for a car battery, special attention should be paid. Their presence of protection against overloads, voltage surges, incorrect connection of terminals, and overcharging will ensure stable operation and long service life of the device.

Popular charger models

Models of the top ten best chargers are presented in different price segments. When choosing a suitable device, it is important to have an idea of ​​the tasks that will need to be performed with its help, so if the multifunctionality of the charger is unnecessary, then it is not advisable to pay a significant amount for it. The quality and reliability of the device, as well as the originality of the product, play a much larger role.

Top 10 battery chargers

Universal charging with a wide range of functions, including battery diagnostics and desulfation. The device operates at temperatures as low as -20° C and can be used for 12 V batteries of various types. The device automatically carries out eight-stage charging with a charging current of 7 Amps, has a protection class of IP65 (from moisture and dust), and is safe for on-board electronics of the car. The average cost of CTEK MXS 7.0 is 15,000 rubles.

A specialized charger, developed for sea and river vehicles, is used for 12 V batteries of all types with a capacity from 50 Ah to 500 Ah. Provides prevention, restoration, and battery condition monitoring, operates quietly, and has a night mode that further reduces noise. The device provides eight-stage charging with a current of up to 25 Amps. CTEK M300 does not produce galvanic currents, so the device is not dangerous for metal parts of the vehicle, and has a protection class of IP 44 (outdoor use). The device is not cheap, its average price will be about 35,000 rubles.

The device, created using advanced technologies, is able to function in extreme cold conditions and is suitable for all types of 12 V batteries with a capacity of up to 110 Ah. CTEK MXS 5.0 POLAR can be used for snowmobiles, ATVs, SUVs, and passenger vehicles. A recovery function is available that returns the battery to serviceability. The main advantage of the device is a wide range of operating temperatures from -30° C to +50° C. An automated eight-stage charging system with a current of up to 5 Amps, the process of which the user can follow on the display. CTEK MXS 5.0 POLAR is equipped with a well-insulated cable to ensure high-quality operation in cold weather, has an IP 65 protection level against moisture and dust, the average cost of the device is about 10,000 rubles.

The charger from the German manufacturer offers six operating modes, automatically recognizes the battery type, and provides charging at subzero temperatures. The device is suitable for 12 V and 24 V WET/GEL batteries with a capacity of up to 230 Ah (for 12 V) and 120 Ah (for 24 V), charges with a current of up to 7 Amps, and is protected from short circuit, humidity and dust. You can purchase the device for up to 6,000 rubles.

The device is compact in size with decent functionality, easy to use, and provides a charging current of 5 Amps for all types of 12 V batteries from 20 Ah to 160 Ah. The charger can be used at temperatures from -20° C to +50° C, has a protection class of IP 65, and desulfation is included in the set of options. The disadvantage is the slow charging speed. The cost of the device will be up to 10,000 rubles.

CTEK MXS 5.0

A multifunctional device from CTEK allows you to use such options as diagnostics, prevention, and battery restoration. The charger carries out eight-stage charging of 12 V lead-acid batteries with a maximum capacity of up to 110 Ah at a current of up to 5 Amperes. Operating temperature ranges from -20° C to +50° C; a unique display allows you to monitor the process. The model is slightly inferior in characteristics to its counterparts, but is distinguished by high quality, reliability and a reasonable price. You can purchase a copy at a low cost of about 8,000 rubles.

ORION PW 415

A pre-start charger from a domestic manufacturer, also distinguished by its design simplicity, is quite powerful, provides a charge for 12 or 24 V batteries with a capacity of up to 160 Ah at a current of up to 15 Amps, charges quickly, and has overheating protection. The average price is 2500 rubles.

In fact, these are only a few of those that are worthy of attention; there are still many high-quality products on the car market that meet the basic requirements for memory. Based on the main characteristics of the devices and their compliance with the battery parameters, you can choose the right charger for your car’s battery, thereby fully meeting possible unforeseen circumstances.

A car battery sometimes needs to be recharged to keep it working. This is relevant when there are sudden temperature changes, increased consumption load in the on-board network (powerful audio systems, heated seats, etc.) or when using the car for short trips, when the battery does not have time to restore its volume from the standard generator.

Our review presents the best chargers available on the domestic market. The distribution of models in the rating is based on the characteristics of the devices, user reviews and the evaluative opinions of experts in the field of automotive electronics.

The best automatic chargers

The peculiarity of this category of devices is the automatic adjustment of the current, the value of which changes in accordance with the battery charge level. This method prevents the electrolyte from “boiling” and ensures a long battery life.

3 ORION PW150

Best price
Country Russia
Average price: 1225 rub.
Rating (2019): 4.5

The simplest and at the same time practical charging unit, operating in automatic mode with lead-acid batteries. This is a model that is strikingly different from its competitors in terms of rating: the ascetic appearance of the front panel contains only two indicators - no switches, no control knobs and a display notifying about the amount of charging current. There is a battery charge monitoring light and, in essence, an activity diode for the ongoing process.

As for charging, the ORION PW150 is not capable of carrying a completely discharged battery, but can only help survive for someone who is actually “death”. This is where his talents end, but simplicity still gains a bit of popularity among users. Owners of the ORION PW150 charger, leaving reviews, generally evaluate this device on the positive side. Its use is extremely simple, you don’t need to control anything - the battery can be connected to it for at least a whole week, and there is absolutely no need to worry about overcharging or damaging the battery. Many car enthusiasts have been able to use it to extend the life of their battery for another season. True, for this it was necessary to always charge the battery at sub-zero temperatures.

2 Autoelectrics T-1001AR

Prevents battery sulfation
Country Russia
Average price: 3300 rub.
Rating (2019): 4.7

The charger supports a maximum current of 9 A and can restore battery capacity up to 110 Ah for cars (12 V) or motorcycles (6 V). Reversible current saves the plates from premature destruction and promotes more efficient restoration of working capacity.

Owners, leaving reviews, rightly consider the T-1001AR to be the best charger. The device can work with gel batteries and batteries with AGM technology. Regular use prevents sulfation of the battery plates (the most common cause of battery failure) and reduces the self-discharge current. In addition to displaying the battery status on the display, using the device you can also check the functionality of the generator and relay regulator.

1 QUATTRO ELEMENTI i-Charge 10

Good technical equipment
Country: Italy
Average price: 3990 rub.
Rating (2019): 4.9

A not too compact, expensive device for automatically recharging high-end car batteries. Easily copes with the gradual “refilling” of batteries with a capacity of 100 Ah. The beginning of the charging process takes place at a nominal current value of 6.5 A. Gradually, processing the data received from the terminals about the state of the battery, the device itself selects the optimal mode for the given conditions, either increasing or decreasing the ammeter readings.

Another important factor is the presence of a warning system about a malfunction, which makes it much easier to control the work process. Owners, leaving their reviews, indicate that with the help of QUATTRO ELEMENTI i-Charge 10 they were able to extend the life of the standard battery and save themselves from problems with starting the engine in cold weather. The only thing this device lacks (according to the owners) is a forced charging system that allows you to “raise dead” batteries.

The best manual chargers

Breakdown chargers for resuscitation of dead batteries. They are distinguished by the instantaneous and stable transmission of a current of a certain strength to the terminals, which is perceived by the battery in small volumes. Gradually the battery “comes to life” and begins to accept current in full portions.

The main disadvantage of such chargers is the need for constant monitoring - from excess energy, the electrolyte in the battery begins to boil, which often leads to an explosion of the battery itself and entails damage to property and health. They cost an order of magnitude cheaper than their automatic counterparts, but for safety reasons (if there is no time to monitor the charging process), it is better to resort to purchasing an automatic device.

4 KOLNER KBCH 4

Best price
A country: Russia (manufactured in China)
Average price: 880 rub.
Rating (2019): 4.5

A fairly simple, and yet reliable starting-charger will help, if necessary, quickly start the car engine - the main thing is that there is a 220 V network or an alternating current generator nearby. Actually, this specimen does not demonstrate anything new - it meets the standard requirements for recharging 12-volt batteries, and does it quite conscientiously. Unlike many much more serious models, KOLNER KBCH 4 has an additional short circuit protection unit built into it, so incorrectly connecting the terminals will not be fatal to the battery.

The charge is indicated by visible LEDs, both at night and during the day. The only serious inconvenience of the device is the need for periodic monitoring - from excessive current saturation, the electrolyte can simply boil. However, user reviews positively evaluate the convenient case and capabilities of the device. In addition, the “starter” KOLNER has one of the most affordable prices on the market, which attracts its new owners.

3 Sonar UZP-210

Optimal combination of performance characteristics
Country Russia
Average price: 4050 rub.
Rating (2019): 4.9

A modern system with a switching voltage converter, dressed in an echo body of the 90s. The model is so practical that the first advantage can be called simple and intuitive manual control. The remaining manipulations are simply unnecessary: ​​Sonar UZP-210 does everything itself, in automatic mode. This is a clear example of a combination of two conceptually different management methods that produces excellent results. There are two charging modes - with a maximum of 12 A or 6 A for different types of batteries. Charging proceeds according to the classic scenario of the automatic method: fast recharging, leveling the current supply to the standard value, as the battery is saturated, switching to buffer mode and stabilizing the voltage at the saturation level.

Advantages:

• impressive short-term starting current (200 A for one to two seconds);
• compactness;
• automatic charging with manually adjustable parameters.

Flaws:

• not detected.

2 ZPU 135

The best transformer charger
Country Russia
Average price: 4200 rub.
Rating (2019): 4.9

The most powerful starting and charging transformer device with a manual control type, the potential of which can be enough to “breathe life” into an empty capacious battery. The maximum charging current reaches an impressive figure of 13 A, and the starting current, and even more so, is a one-time surge of 140 A (within 10-15 seconds, according to a simple estimate, it can instantly “boil” the electrolyte even in a battery with a capacity of 140 Ah (and 12 -ti, and 24 volt). Only a small number of consumers prefer to resort to using such a device at home - it has become much more widespread in the circles of auto repair shops, services and transport shops of private and public enterprises. The only drawback of the system is the lack of protection against the occurrence of a short short circuits - when securing the terminals you should be especially careful.

Advantages:

• high rated power of starting mode and normal charging;
• basic management;
• attractive price.

Flaws:

• the likelihood of short circuiting the terminals and failure of the device.

1 FUBAG COLD START 300/12

The most efficient device
Country: Germany
Average price: 6050 rub.
Rating (2019): 5.0

The leader among the starting and charging devices included in our rating was FUBAG COLD START 300/12. Despite the microprocessor automatic control of the device, it ended up in this category because of its ability to quickly reanimate a car battery and ensure reliable engine starting in harsh winter conditions and with an acute lack of time.

Owner reviews emphasize the ability to use FUBAG COLD START to restore completely “dead” batteries after deep discharge. As a result of using a charger, the prospect of the battery being sent for recycling can be postponed for at least one more calendar season, and purchasing a new power source for the car will not be necessary at all.

The best microprocessor-controlled chargers

Modern high-tech chargers, in addition to preventive recharging of batteries, make it possible to restore deeply discharged batteries of various types of design. By regulating current and voltage according to a given algorithm, these devices increase the service life of the battery, which confirms their high efficiency.

3 SMART-POWER SP-25N Professional

High quality device
Country: Philippines
Average price: 9990 rub.
Rating (2019): 4.5

One of the representatives of a small cohort of chargers that work not only with 12-volt, but also with 24-volt batteries. Despite its unsightly dimensions, this is a fairly powerful device capable of charging electrolyte batteries on an industrial scale. If you trace the purchasing trend, it becomes clear that approximately 20% of consumers buy the device for personal use, while the rest are representatives of service centers, car repair and maintenance stations. However, the high build quality and the covered operating range significantly add to the price of the SMART-POWER SP-25N Professional, due to which budget users are eliminated already at the stage of a cursory selection.

Nevertheless, established owners are satisfied with the performance of the charger. Particular attention in the reviews is paid to the moisture resistance of the case and the presence of an information display that clearly reflects the ongoing charging processes. The build quality and reliability of the components are highly rated - the device can work almost non-stop, taking short breaks only to connect to another battery. Battery recovery modes after deep discharge fully justify the cost of this equipment.

2 RedHotDot VOLTA G-260

Long service life
A country: Germany (made in Italy)
Average price: 14900 rub.
Rating (2019): 4.8

The control panel of this charger is quite simple and clear, so it is almost impossible to make a mistake when choosing a battery operating mode. The device is made of high-quality parts and has excellent assembly, which ultimately determines its professional level of technical characteristics and durability.

Users using the RedHotDot VOLTA G-260 can service more than just regular car batteries. It can charge motorcycle (6 V) batteries, as well as parallel-connected pairs of batteries (24 V) used in some luxury cars and heavy-duty vehicles. In reviews, the model is characterized positively - the owners like the complete automation of the process, security systems that are triggered in emergency situations (heating of the network, short circuit) and the presence of an operating mode for restoring the battery after a deep discharge.

1 DAEWOO DW 800

The best ratio of price and quality
Country: South Korea
Average price: 4480 rub.
Rating (2019): 5.0

One of the best microprocessor-controlled chargers. Provides diagnostics of the state of the connected battery, independently selects the current strength and the amount of supplied voltage, depending on the selected mode (smooth, express, winter and auto).

It has the most effective protection systems against short circuits, overheating of wiring and non-compliance with polarity. In reviews, owners positively evaluate the presence and information content of the LCD display, diagnostic and desulfation modes. In addition, the device can work with five different types of batteries and, when used regularly to recharge a car battery, can increase its resource. In some cases, it is known that the normal service life of the battery has been exceeded by more than two times.

How to choose a good charger

To select the ideal charger in terms of performance and durability, you should pay attention to a number of important criteria:

1. Purpose. Devices are divided into three types:

• starters, whose task is a one-time resuscitation of the battery to obtain immediate results;
• chargers designed for long-term but complete battery replenishment;
• starting-charging – a combination of the first two types of devices, serving as a universal device.

The choice directly depends on your personal preferences.

1. Charging method. This category has only two methods: auto, in which the voltage is regulated by the device as the battery charge increases, and classic (manual), requiring periodic monitoring of the process by the user.
2. Supported voltage modes. A parameter that determines the typology of rechargeable batteries. Thus, some devices are designed to charge simple 6-volt batteries found on motor vehicles, while others power powerful 24-volt or more average 12-volt batteries.
3. Availability of additional functions. Some manufacturers tend to add distinctive features to their products, be it original LEDs, battery power modes (Boost, pulse charging, etc.) or equipping the device with a storage device capable of remembering the results of charging sessions.