12-V Battery Charger Instructions

The 12-volt battery is a heavy-duty type of battery that is commonly used to power various types of transportation vehicles. A rechargeable version of the 12-volt battery is also available, allowing users to get more use out of their 12-volt batteries while saving a little extra cash. Before charging your batteries, there are a few things you should know.

Uses

You can use 12-volt batteries to power many different types of devices, though the primary use of 12-volt batteries is for powering transportation vehicles such as cars, trucks and boats. They are sometimes used to power small children's vehicles, like the Power Wheels brand. In their smaller forms, 12-volt batteries are also used to power outdoor sports equipment such as fish finders.

Size

The 12-volt battery is one of the most variable batteries where size is concerned. When used to power a vehicle, the 12-volt battery is often large and heavy. When used to power handheld sports equipment, 12-volt batteries can look similar to traditional alkaline AA batteries. Portable 12-volt batteries are also available; these batteries are smaller and lighter than a traditional 12-volt battery and are usually encased in a waterproof case.

Chargers

Rechargeable 12-volt batteries and battery chargers are readily available and can be used to help you save money and reduce your environmental footprint. You can purchase a 12-volt battery charger from your local retail store for between $10 and $60 and fully charge a battery in 15 hours or less. To operate properly, 12-volt battery chargers must only be plugged into grounded outlets. If you do not have a grounded outlet, contact an electrician to install one before using your 12-volt battery charger.

Safety

Even during regular operation, 12-volt batteries are known to generate hydrogen gas. It is possible for this hydrogen gas to explode, leading to very serious injury. You must take proper safety precautions when working with 12-volt batteries or battery chargers. To avoid injury, always wear protective eye gear. Keep your face, as well as flames, sparks and fuel, away from the battery and charger. Other safety precautions include removing jewelry and plugging the battery charger into grounded outlets only.

Charging Instructions

Check that the charger switch on the battery charger is set to "off." Clip the "positive" battery charger to the "positive" post on the 12-volt battery. Connect the "negative" battery charger clip to the engine block or vehicle frame. To turn the battery charger on, first set the voltage switch to "12 volts," then set the timer on the charger according to your charger's specifications. Stand away from the battery, plug the AC cord into a grounded outlet and flip the charger's switch to "on." When the battery has finished charging, flip the charger switch to "off" and unplug the AC cord from the outlet. Remove charger that is clipped to the vehicle frame first, then remove the charger clipped to the battery post.

References

• 12 Volt Side of Life