How to Properly Charge an Everstart Jump Starter for Optimal Performance and Battery Life
Having a portable jump starter like those in the Everstart lineup can literally be a lifesaver when you experience an unexpected dead battery while out on the road. The peak amps these compact devices can provide are often enough to jump start most standard gasoline engines up to 8 cylinders or diesel engines up to 6 cylinders. However, to ensure your jump starter delivers maximum power and longevity whenever you need it, proper charging and maintenance is absolutely essential.
This comprehensive guide will provide full details on properly charging an Everstart jump starter. We will explain recommended charging times, discuss charge indicators, detail why full charges are vital, and provide tips to avoid overcharging. By understanding these best practices and making charging a priority, your jump starter will perform optimally when called upon for years to come.
Follow Manufacturer Initial and Regular Charge Guidelines
The instruction manual included with your Everstart jump starter serves as your primary guide and authority when it comes to proper charging procedures and times for your specific model. Never ignore or overlook these manufacturer guidelines, as they are tailored to the battery, charger, and charge controlling circuits in your particular unit. Key charging specifications will be included that must be adhered to, such as:
- Initial Charge Duration: The manual will indicate the recommended initial charge duration before the first use out of the box. This is necessary to fully saturate and balance the internal battery cells. A minimum of 24 hours initial charge is typical.
- Charge Time from Depleted: For subsequent routine charges, the manual will list approximate charge times from a fully depleted state back to 100% charged when using approved chargers and power sources. Most models require 4-6 hours for a full charge.
- Acceptable Charger Specs: The charging ports, cables, and adapters included with your model are rated to deliver power at certain voltages and amperages. Use of aftermarket chargers not meeting specifications can damage equipment or result in very lengthy charge times.
- Charging Port Connections: Everstart manuals will show how to properly connect provided charging accessories to the charging port or posts. Reverse polarity or improper connections can damage the jump starter's internal charge controller.
Adhering closely to all manufacturer charge guidelines is strongly advised when charging your jump starter. This ensures efficient charging that meets the design parameters of your particular model's electrical systems. Deviating from recommendations often results in longer charge times, inaccurate charge level diagnostics, or even permanent damage in some cases.
As an example, one Everstart 750 peak amp 12V jump starter manual specifies an initial 30 hour charge time before first use when charging with the included smart charger, and routine 6 hour charges from depleted using the 12V vehicle charger at minimum 1.5 amps. This exemplifies the specific guidelines tailored to that unit that should be strictly followed. Check your manual and abide by the directions.
Only Use Included Everstart Charging Cables and Adapters
Everstart jump starter kits include specialized charging cables, leads, and power adapters designed specifically to work with your model's charging system. The electrical and connection specifications of these accessories have been optimized by the manufacturer to deliver power at levels acceptable to the charging circuits and battery. For this reason, it is highly recommended to only use the supplied chargers for your jump starter, not replacement aftermarket cables or chargers.
The included charging accessories, when used properly, ensure your jump starter battery:
- Receives a regulated, controlled current optimized for both charge time and battery health.
- Is protected against voltage spikes or polarity reversals that could damage the internal diagnostics.
- Reaches a full charge state accurately detected by the charge status monitoring systems.
- Does not overheat from chargers delivering higher than specified amperage.
Improper use of aftermarket chargers often results in very lengthy charge times as charge controlling systems limit current to protect the battery. Overly powerful chargers can overload circuits and damage the jump starter permanently. Using the correct included chargers mitigates these risks while providing efficient charge acceptance.
As another example, a 750 amp Everstart jump starter may include a smart wall charger providing 1.5 amps, and a cigarette lighter 12V vehicle adapter limited to 2.1 amps output. These chargers are ideal for providing a quick full charge without taxing the system. Replacements rarely improve charge times or performance.
Expect Full Charge Times Around 4-6 Hours
With periodic full charging an essential practice for jump starter maintenance, how long should you expect a full charge to take? The time required to reach a 100% charge state depends on:
- Battery capacity in Amp-Hours (AH)
- Charger power output in Amps
- Charge controlling electronics that limit max current
- Battery age and number of cycles
- Ambient temperature during charging
Most Everstart jump starter battery capacities range from 15-25AH. Using the included chargers, you can anticipate a full charge from 0-100% to require:
- 4-5 hours when charging at room temperature from a wall outlet
- 5-6+ hours when charging from a lower powered 12V vehicle outlet
- Longer in colder conditions due to lower chemical activity
- Shorter charge times in warmer conditions
Monitoring the charge indicators like status LEDs or a charge level display is the best way to know when your unit has reached full charge. Charging significantly longer than 6 hours may indicate an issue needing troubleshooting.
As an example, say you have a 12,000 mAh Everstart lithium jump starter with 18AH capacity. With its 2 amp wall charger, you can expect a full charge in approximately 4.5 hours at room temperature. However, using the 12V 1.5 amp vehicle adapter may require 6 hours or more to reach full charge. Check the indicators, not just the clock, to verify when charging is complete.
Monitor Charge Indicators to Avoid Over or Undercharging
All Everstart jump starter models provide a means of monitoring charging status and current charge level. Typical indicators include:
- LED Status Lights: Red, yellow, and green LEDs denote charging, half charged, and fully charged respectively.
- Digital Display: Higher end models have an LCD screen that displays the charge as a percentage.
- Audible Alerts: Some units beep or provide voice messages when the charge reaches 100%.
- No Indicators: If charging but no indicators appear, an issue likely exists needing troubleshooting.
Being aware of these indicators during charging allows you to disconnect promptly once a full charge is reached, avoiding potential overcharging. Look for the green LED, 100% display readout, or hear the full charge sounds.
Conversely, the indicators can alert you if charging is taking much longer than expected, possibly signaling an issue with the power source, cable, or jump starter charging circuits. Using the indicators as visual guidance provides the best means of verifying your jump starter is receiving a proper, complete charge.
As an example, say you begin charging a fully depleted jump starter that typically requires 5 hours for a full charge. But after 7 hours the indicators still show only a partial charge. This would signify a problem needing diagnosis, such as an underpowered outlet or defective cable. The indicators provide that crucial feedback.
Why Full Charges Are Necessary
Given the long 5-6 hour charge times for some models, you may be tempted to occasionally just give your jump starter a brief partial charge. However, here are some key reasons why full, uninterrupted charge cycles are essential:
Allows Proper Battery Calibration
The microprocessor and diagnostic systems contained in jump starter batteries require a complete 100% charge cycle from dead to fully charged in order to accurately calibrate the smart charge status sensing and percentage displays. Cycling the battery through partial states of charge can provide inaccurate data over time.
Prevents Incorrect Charge Level Readings
Only a full charging cycle saturates and balances out the charge across all of the internal battery cells. Weak or undercharged cells can skew the measurements from sensors monitoring the overall battery voltage and available power. Full charges help keep all cells balanced.
Maintains Peak Cranking Power
Partial cycles that never fully charge the battery can gradually develop an imbalance between cells resulting in a “memory” effect over time that reduces the battery’s overall cranking amps capacity. Full charges help prevent this by balancing all cells.
Avoids Sulfation Buildup
Leaving lead-acid batteries at a partial state of charge allows damaging sulfation buildup on the lead plates inside the battery, increasing internal resistance and reducing cranking power capacity. Fully charging dissolves any sulfation deposits.
Maximizes Battery Lifespan
High internal resistance from sulfation and out-of-balance cells taxes the battery and accelerates deterioration. This greatly shortens the jump starter’s lifespan. Full charge cycles optimize battery health and longevity.
Make a habit of allowing your jump starter to reach a complete 100% charge state each time to maintain it in optimal condition. The few extra hours are well worth it to extend its service life and ensure powerful performance when you need it most in an emergency.
As an example, say you only have time to give your dead jump starter a quick 2 hour partial charge before a trip. During the trip the vehicle battery dies and the jump starter only provides enough power for 2 failed start attempts before going dead itself, leaving you stranded. This illustrates the importance of full charges.
Charge When Power Level is Low to Avoid Deep Discharge
To maximize your jump starter’s longevity and performance, you should recharge the unit before the battery discharges too deeply. Here are some guidelines for when to charge your jump starter:
- When the battery charge level falls below 50%, begin recharging. This prevents deep power drains.
- Don’t wait until all indicators show empty before charging. Try to begin charging by 25% remaining power.
- If cranking time becomes slower or fewer start attempts are possible, start recharging.
- After any use for jump starting or powering 12V accessories, immediately recharge. Avoid leaving discharged for extended periods.
- After long term storage (2-3 months), give a maintenance charge to offset dormant self-discharge.
A good habit is recharging your jump starter after each use, even if only used for a few seconds. Leaving the battery partially or fully discharged for days or weeks at a time allows deterioration of the cells from sulfation and imbalance. Frequent full charging reduces these aging factors for maximum life.
For example, say you deplete your jump starter completely after 3 jump starts. Rather than waiting until next week when you might need it again, immediately recharge it to 100% after use. This prevents unnecessary discharge time that slowly damages the battery over time. Regular full recharges are your best practice.
Avoid Overcharging to Prevent Battery Damage
While full charge cycles are important for jump starter maintenance, it is also possible to “overcharge” the battery if left plugged in well after a full charge is reached. This causes heat and gas generation that degrades the internals. Exercise caution to avoid overcharging:
- Disconnect the charger promptly when indicators show 100% charged status. Avoid leaving chargers connected indefinitely after full charge.
- Only charge for the recommended duration to reach a full state, avoiding multi-day charging sessions unless explicitly allowed per manufacturer guidelines.
- When storing your jump starter for long durations, follow manual guidelines to prevent self-discharge issues. Never store for extended periods while fully charged.
- If an older jump starter no longer holds full charges and quickly loses power, the battery may need professional replacement as it can no longer be safely and effectively charged.
With proper care and charging habits, an Everstart jump starter can provide years of reliable service. But improper charging that is too infrequent, stopping at partial charges, or continuing charging beyond full can shorten its lifespan dramatically. Use the indicator lights and displays to verify proper charging without overdoing it.
For example, say you leave the charger plugged into your jump starter for 3 days straight “to make sure it’s fully charged”. This long overcharge likely caused damage, shortening the battery’s ability to hold a full charge quickly. Instead, when the indicators showed fully charged at 5 hours, the charger should have been disconnected.
Using Your Everstart Responsibly
Portable lithium jump starters like the Everstart lineup are immensely useful for providing peace of mind against being stranded with a dead battery. But because these units utilize powerful lithium batteries and high discharge currents, some care should be taken to use your jump starter responsibly and safely. Here are some usage tips:
- Carefully follow all manufacturer precautions and warnings in the user manual before using your jump starter.
- Wear eye protection when connecting to battery terminals. Be aware of vent/explosion hazards from lead-acid off-gassing.
- Avoid touching both battery terminals simultaneously with hands or tools. This can cause dangerous shorts through your body.
- Determine if your vehicle has any special considerations prior to jump starting, described in its owner's manual.
- Do not attempt to jump start in cases of leaking, damaged, or frozen batteries. Seek professional assistance.
- When charging, place your jump starter on a non-flammable surface away from flammable items or vapors. Discontinue use if overheating occurs.
- Properly recycle/dispose of your jump starter at authorized centers when it reaches end of lifespan, as the lithium battery contains hazardous materials if damaged. Do not discard in normal waste stream.
While extremely useful devices, jump starters demand responsible precautions when utilized in order to be used safely as designed.
In Summary
Having an Everstart jump starter handy provides great insurance against being stuck with a dead vehicle battery. Their compact size makes them easy to keep in your vehicle’s trunk for power emergencies. But to provide years of reliable service, properly recharging your jump starter is a must. Follow all manufacturer guidelines, utilize the included chargers, monitor status indicators carefully, and make full recharges after each use a habit. Your jump starter will deliver reliable strong cranking power and maximum battery lifespan when you need it by following these charging best practices. Having a well-maintained jump starter can prevent missed appointments or even dangerous situations in the case of an emergency. Use your chargers properly and charge regularly – an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure for your battery!
Key Takeaways:
- Adhere to initial and routine charging times/specs in your Everstart model's user manual
- Only use included cables and power adapters designed for your model
- Full charges from 0-100% take 4-6 hours typically
- Watch LEDs and displays to monitor charging status and completion
- Partial charges can reduce performance and shorten lifespan
- Recharge after any use to avoid deep discharge damage
- Disconnect promptly when fully charged to prevent overcharging
- Improper charging habits can severely reduce battery life
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