We are independent & ad-supported. We may earn a commission for purchases made through our links.
Advertiser Disclosure
Our website is an independent, advertising-supported platform. We provide our content free of charge to our readers, and to keep it that way, we rely on revenue generated through advertisements and affiliate partnerships. This means that when you click on certain links on our site and make a purchase, we may earn a commission. Learn more.
How We Make Money
We sustain our operations through affiliate commissions and advertising. If you click on an affiliate link and make a purchase, we may receive a commission from the merchant at no additional cost to you. We also display advertisements on our website, which help generate revenue to support our work and keep our content free for readers. Our editorial team operates independently of our advertising and affiliate partnerships to ensure that our content remains unbiased and focused on providing you with the best information and recommendations based on thorough research and honest evaluations. To remain transparent, we’ve provided a list of our current affiliate partners here.
Electronics

Our Promise to you

Founded in 2002, our company has been a trusted resource for readers seeking informative and engaging content. Our dedication to quality remains unwavering—and will never change. We follow a strict editorial policy, ensuring that our content is authored by highly qualified professionals and edited by subject matter experts. This guarantees that everything we publish is objective, accurate, and trustworthy.

Over the years, we've refined our approach to cover a wide range of topics, providing readers with reliable and practical advice to enhance their knowledge and skills. That's why millions of readers turn to us each year. Join us in celebrating the joy of learning, guided by standards you can trust.

How do I Choose the Best Gel Battery Charger?

By Mal Baxter
Updated: May 16, 2024
Views: 7,687
Share

Gel cell batteries, found in boats, power wheelchairs, and small-engine transports like golf carts, contain electrolytes suspended in a silica additive that sets and stiffens, and are hermetically sealed. These non-spillable, deep-cycle cells allow safe operation under heavy pressure and shock, converting oxygen and hydrogen from the charging process back into water. They are sealed so they cannot be refilled with electrolyte; as such, it's vital to control the rate of charge in order to preserve the life of the battery. While most battery chargers, including universal gel battery chargers, can work with most types of batteries, only a dedicated gel battery charger can be used for recharging gel batteries.

These batteries can operate even when their case is cracked. The interior thickening agent keeps the electrolyte in place. Gel cells must use lower charge voltage than flooded cells, requiring adjustment of the set points on the equipment. In addition, gel cells dispel charge at a higher rate. These high performers exhibit greater sensitivity to voltage overcharges, and can diminish or fail quickly with improper charging.

A good gel battery charger must therefore take the guesswork out of accurate and complete deep cycle recharging. A smart charger is usually the recommended type of gel battery charger. This type of charger can allow for gel's slower, longer charging requirements. It charges based on computer algorithms by collecting information from the cell, and modulating voltage and charge current accordingly. These chargers can be left plugged in without overcharging or damaging the battery.

Chargers may permit two types of charging: fast and float charging. Fast, or cyclic charging, requires monitoring of voltage, temperature, and current. It's necessary to switch off once the voltage reaches the desired level. Float charging, also known as standby service, provides a constant voltage and temperature, and allows the battery to moderate its own voltage level.

Assess your needs when it comes to charging times; faster charges require increased amps from a gel battery charger. Calculate the battery's amp hour rating divided by charger rating, and add about 10% extra time to maximize the charge. If a dead boat battery is rated at 100 amp hours, a 10-amp charger requires about 11 hours for a full recharge. Confirm that the charger meets your technical needs, and check reviews to learn about customer experiences with the charger, to ascertain how reliable and durable it is in operation.

Other considerations include whether you need to charge multiple batteries banked together, the input voltage of any foreign countries you may need to charge in, or whether you need a charger that can double as an RV power supply. Waterproofing and weatherproofing increase versatility for a charger. Careful maintenance of your gel battery charger and batteries will help ensure trouble-free operation when you may need it most.

Share
EasyTechJunkie is dedicated to providing accurate and trustworthy information. We carefully select reputable sources and employ a rigorous fact-checking process to maintain the highest standards. To learn more about our commitment to accuracy, read our editorial process.
Discussion Comments
Share
https://www.easytechjunkie.com/how-do-i-choose-the-best-gel-battery-charger.htm
Copy this link
EasyTechJunkie, in your inbox

Our latest articles, guides, and more, delivered daily.

EasyTechJunkie, in your inbox

Our latest articles, guides, and more, delivered daily.