subject: Float Battery Charger [print this page] A float battery charger is specially designed for charging batteries that require a highly regulated charger. They are automatic chargers that can carry continuous or intermittent loads up to 100% of the charge rating.
This type of charger is also known as a storage charger, maintenance charger or smart charger. It can supply power to batteries at a similar rate as a battery self-discharge.
Advantages of a Float Charger
These chargers offer innumerable advantages, which include:
Intelligent circuitry: It comes with a sensor that can identify when the battery is fully charged. This enables it to stop charging when the battery is fully charged. Similarly, when the battery starts self-discharging, the float charger starts supplying power again.
The float charger can be connected indefinitely to the battery: Unlike other chargers they can be connected to the battery indefinitely, as they are automatic chargers. This won't cause any damage to your cells.
A float charger manages, not just charges, a battery: The charger can not only charge batteries, it can also manage the service life and efficiency of the battery.
The only disadvantages of a float battery charger are that it charges batteries at a slower pace and it is ineffective in charging a completely discharged battery. However, as the battery is incapable of overcharging, the charger can be left connected to the battery for any period of time.
Buying a float battery charger
If you are purchasing a float charger, there are a few things you need to consider. It is worth investing some time to research a list of few suppliers. Once you make a list of potential suppliers, take some time to visit their websites and compare the features and offers they have advertised.
Make sure that the supplier you choose has products from various leading manufacturers available. This way you will get the flexibility to choose from a range of quality products. You also need to make sure that the product you are going to buy comes with a manufacturer's warranty.
The current and voltage value of the charge depends on the technology, voltage capacity, security capabilities and manufacturer of the charger. The type and amount of current varies from charger to charger. Before making the purchase, it helps to know the make and capacity of your battery in order to choose a float battery charger that suits your application the best, however a good supplier will be happy to offer advice if you need it.
