When to Charge the Battery?
2 Answers
The battery will start charging only when the engine speed meets the power generation requirements of the generator and reaches a stable output power. Below are detailed introductions about automotive batteries: Functions: The battery is used to store electrical energy. Without it, the car cannot operate normally. Charging During Driving: Typically, household car batteries are 12V, with a no-load voltage around 13V and a load voltage not lower than 11V. If the voltage drops below this level, it may cause difficulty in starting. The battery can be charged by the generator while the car is running. If the car is parked for a long time, it can easily lead to battery power loss, making the car unable to start. Therefore, during long-term parking, it is best to start the vehicle at least once a week for more than 5 minutes to charge the battery. Charging Precautions: Generally, it takes 4-5 hours to fully charge the battery. Avoid overcharging.
Throughout my car repair career, I've witnessed various battery discharge scenarios. The optimal time to charge a car battery is typically when signs of discharge appear, such as sluggish engine cranking, dimming headlights, or voltmeter readings dropping below 12.4 volts. Extended parking periods like weekend trips often lead to discharge - this is when prompt charging is crucial to prevent deep damage to battery lifespan. I recommend driving for over 30 minutes weekly to help recharge it, though short trips aren't sufficient - using a smart charger is more reliable. Forgetting to charge may result in towing hassles; I've seen numerous such cases during repairs. Battery aging also affects timing - after 2-3 years, regular voltage checks help maintain optimal condition.
