How Long Does It Take to Charge a Car by Idling in Place?
2 Answers
Idling in place to charge the battery takes 2 to 3 hours. Here is a detailed introduction to the functions of the battery: Powering the engine: Supplies power to the engine starting system, ignition system, and the car's electrical system. Power supply when the engine is off: Provides power to the car's electrical devices when the engine is off or at low idle. Power supply beyond generator capacity: Assists in power supply when the electrical demand exceeds the generator's capacity. Voltage stabilization: Acts as a voltage stabilizer for the entire electrical system, mitigating voltage spikes and protecting the car's electronic devices.
I've encountered a similar issue before—charging the car battery by idling the engine while parked. Honestly, this method is extremely inefficient. Typically, when the engine is idling, the alternator only outputs a few hundred watts of power, say around 500W. For a standard 60Ah car battery that's completely dead, relying on idling to recharge it could take anywhere from 2 to 4 hours or even longer. Several factors come into play, such as the remaining battery charge, the vehicle model, and even ambient temperature, all of which can slow things down. For example, in cold weather, battery efficiency drops, potentially requiring even more time. I’d strongly advise against using this as a long-term charging solution—it’s fuel-inefficient and can lead to carbon buildup. You’re far better off taking a short drive; charging is much faster at higher speeds, often restoring a significant charge in just 30 minutes. If your battery frequently runs low, it might be aging, and you should have its health checked.
