Imagine you’re running late to pick up the kids from school. You grab your handbag and keys, get in the car, and as you turn the key — you’re greeted with the sounds of a failing battery. Even worse is finding out that help is 30 minutes away.
This can be prevented by investing in a smart charger for your car battery. A smart charger differs from a trickle charger, which provides a low-rate current that slowly brings your battery to life. Unfortunately, a trickle charge can cause overcharging, and permanent damage to your car battery. A smart charger on the other hand is programmed to provide a planned, and steady charge that is safe and effective.
PriceCheck tip: If your battery is on its last legs, it might be worth investing in a whole new battery so that you’re not left stranded. Check out the handy PriceCheck car battery buyer’s guide to find the perfect battery for your vehicle.
In addition to avoiding the inconvenience of a faulty or flat battery, owning a smart charger has three advantages:
1. It’s safe
Over the past two years, hijackings in South Africa have increased by 20%, taking the annual amount of hijackings to 30,000. Criminals often target drivers stranded on the side of the road. A smart charger keeps your battery charged, and reduces your chances of getting stuck. However, it is important to remember that proper care and maintenance of your car is crucial to avoid getting stuck, stranded, and falling victim to a senseless crime.
2. Time and money savings
A smart charger is designed to observe your battery’s status, and, provide a charge when necessary in order to maintain your battery, keeping it healthy and energised. This ensures your vehicle is ready to go, and prevents internal damage caused by running your battery down when not in use. Additionally, it also prevents incorrect jumpstarts, which could void your battery’s warranty.
3. Shock-proof technology
Trickle chargers have been around for a long time, but in the wrong hands, they can shock the user. Smart chargers have built-in safeguards, and even tell you if the terminals are connected incorrectly. This prevents getting shocked and keeps your battery safe from swelling, or in the worst-case, exploding.
Smart chargers are a great addition to your garage, and if used regularly, can keep your car moving for longer. If you’re heading out on a long road trip soon, then a battery charger is a must-add when shopping for car accessories for your travels.
To find a smart charger suitable for your car, visit a well-respected battery fitment centre, like Battery Centre for an expert’s recommendation on the correct smart charger for your vehicle. As an additional measure, a battery jumper like a Hummer 6,000 mAh jumpstarter can be kept in your vehicle. This unit is capable of giving your car, bakkie, motorcycle or small truck a boost to get you to a trusted battery specialist. It also doubles as a power bank which ensures you have power to your cell as well as your vehicle in the case of an emergency.
