Battery tenders are a common component to be used along with batteries these days. The most usual component that they are used with is lead-acid batteries.
This device is also popular in use with vehicles and other large battery devices. They help ensure that the battery can function well for a good amount of time and remains in use optimally.
Nevertheless, people who are new to the use of battery tenders or are not well aware of their application and compatibility, often have a lot of doubts about their use.
Thus, in this article, we would address the major concerns surrounding the use of battery tenders and how long can your battery last on a tender, and whether it can lead to any sort of damage.
What Are Battery Tenders?
In simple terms, a battery tender refers to a device that accompanies any battery. It is usually used to extend the lifecycle of a battery that can be recharged
A battery tender has an in-built system to track and monitor the charge level of a battery and helps to ensure that the battery does not end up being overcharged.
It is best used with devices or systems in which the battery would stay for a long period. Some examples include vehicles, boats, etc.
It must be noted that a battery tender not only helps prevent overcharging but also ensures that the battery does not end up being completely discharged, as it can lead to a shorter lifecycle of the battery.
How Long Will a Battery Last on a Tender?
There is no straight answer to how long can a battery last with the help of a tender, as there are multiple factors in play.
Most importantly, the size and power of the battery is the biggest determinant as they would determine if the battery has the appropriate capacity to work with the tender.
Moreover, the way you use the battery also matters a lot including how you charge your battery. Please note that a tender helps maintain the charging level of your battery.
A tender may help have the battery remain optimally charged for a while, but it cannot aid in charging the battery.
Additionally, if your battery is worn out or damaged, a tender may not help stall its charge level and you might need to check in with an electrician to help with your battery.
Do Battery Tenders Damage Batteries?
The simple answer to this question is no. A battery tender is used to aid a battery in keeping its charge level and thus it usually does not harm it.
However, it depends on the way you use it and any rough or incorrect use may lead to a damaging effect on your battery.
The battery tenders are tasked to extend the life of your battery but if you still charge the battery for a prolonged time and do not maintain it timely, the battery can leak or expand.
Thus, although a battery tender may not directly damage the battery if your battery is already damaged to some extent, the battery tender might end up worsening the effect.
Should You Use Battery Tenders for Lithium Batteries?
Experts usually recommend using battery tenders for your lithium batteries. Although lithium batteries, including lithium-ion batteries, have different and specified characteristics for charging.
Any battery tender used with a lithium battery is supposed to help charge the battery optimally. And although these batteries are extremely non-compatible with charging excessively, a battery tender is ideal to use with such batteries.
You must note that lithium batteries are the most prone to fire and overheating, thus battery tenders must be used cautiously with them.
The battery tender can help monitor the charging level of the battery and help prevent the hazard of overcharging altogether.
But, before you buy a battery tender, make sure that it is compatible with lithium batteries.
Do Battery Tenders Overcharge?
It is a common myth that battery tenders might lead to overcharging, but the actual use of battery tenders is to prevent the problem of overcharging in batteries.
Whether it is a solar battery, lithium battery, or lead based battery, a battery tender can be used with any kind of battery.
Battery tenders have good quality technology that can adjust according to the charging rate of the battery tender.
Can You Unplug the Battery Tender?
A battery tender can be unplugged from the battery you are using, but it should be done usually when it has finished charging.
If the battery has charged completely, you can unplug the battery tender. Overcharging the battery is never a smart move as it can lead to one of the many perils, and make you buy a new battery altogether.
The battery tender switches to its maintenance setting when the battery is fully charged. Thus, even though you can unplug the battery tender as and when you want, do not do it unnecessarily.
Whenever you go to buy a battery tender, you must first read extensively about it so that you are a well-informed customer and can make a smart purchase.
Besides, if you are buying the battery tender from a good store or brand, you would get an accompanying manual or guide.
Additionally, the seller would also help you throughout the process of setting it up and helping you understand how it works.
Conclusion
Therefore, it is generally recommended that battery tenders should be used alongside solar batteries or any kind of batteries, the given condition is that the user must be correct and appropriate.
Although battery tenders are supposed to extend the battery life, when used incorrectly or if overcharged or completely discharged, battery tenders can often end up damaging the battery as well.
Moreover, if you are using a battery tender, you must use a good quality and compatible battery tender with the battery.
It is advisable to take the help and assistance of an electrician or solar energy expert while purchasing your battery tender.
