What is the current standard for battery charging?
2 Answers
The standard charging current for a battery is one-tenth of its capacity. Generally, the battery voltage of a household car is 12V, with a battery capacity of around 60Ah. This means that a charging current of 6A is normal for the battery. When the car engine is running, it drives the generator, which produces electricity to power the car's electrical devices. Additionally, part of the electrical energy can be converted by a transformer to charge the battery. If a car is parked for a long time, it can easily lead to battery power loss, making the car unable to start. During long-term parking, it is recommended to start the vehicle at least once a week for more than 5 minutes to charge the battery.
When I used to work on cars, I often helped car owners with battery issues. The standard charging current mainly depends on the battery size. A typical car battery capacity usually ranges from 45Ah to 70Ah, and the current is generally set at 10% to 20% of the capacity. For example, a 60Ah battery would be best charged at 6A to 12A. Charging too fast can cause overheating or even damage the internal structure of the battery, while slower charging can extend its lifespan. I recommend using a smart charger that automatically adjusts the current—it’s both convenient and safe. Also, pay attention to the battery type: regular lead-acid and AGM batteries have slightly different current requirements, with AGM batteries being more tolerant of higher voltage. Remember to check the voltage after charging; ideally, it should be around 13.8V and not exceed 14.5V. Small maintenance habits like these can save you a lot of money on battery replacements and prevent the hassle of roadside breakdowns.
