Charging your car battery efficiently not only ensures your vehicle starts reliably but also helps you save money in the long run. Here’s a breakdown based on the information provided by CTEK:
Cost of Charging Your Car Battery
1. Cost Calculation:
– Using a CTEK CS ONE battery charger.
– Typical electricity cost in the UK: 36 pence per kWh.
– Charging a 12V, 75Ah battery from almost flat.
– Assumptions: Battery power efficiency of 85% and charger efficiency of 85%.
2. Cost Estimate:
– It costs about 19 pence to fully charge a 12V, 75Ah battery under the given conditions.
Comparison to Other Electrical Activities
– Charging your car battery for 19 pence is equivalent to:
– Watching television for 5 hours.
– Cooking dinner in an electric oven for less than an hour (assuming typical cost of 68 pence for an hour).
– Playing on a games console for three hours (costing around 30 pence).
– Running two loads of laundry through a washing machine (costing approximately 61 pence).
Importance of Regular Battery Charging
– Battery Life Extension:Regular charging can extend your battery’s life by up to three times.
– Preventing Breakdowns:Ensures your battery remains sufficiently charged to avoid breakdowns, especially important if your vehicle has a ‘stop/start’ function.
– Cost Savings: Prevents costly replacements and repairs due to battery failure or damage to vehicle electronics.
Conclusion
Investing in a reliable battery charger and establishing a routine for maintaining your car battery can lead to significant savings over time. By charging your battery regularly, you not only enhance its longevity but also reduce the risk of unexpected breakdowns and associated costs. Given the relatively low cost of electricity for charging compared to other household activities, it’s a cost-effective measure that pays off in terms of vehicle reliability and financial savings.