Trickle Chargers: Ensuring battery longevity in your vehicle

Trickle Chargers: Ensuring battery longevity in your vehicle

Imagine this: you’re gearing up for a long-awaited road trip with your family to Scotland. The car is packed, the kids are buzzing with excitement and you’re ready to hit the road. But as you turn the key in the ignition, you hear that dreaded sound – a weak, struggling engine. Your heart sinks. Could it be your battery?

Ensuring battery longevity in your vehicle

Your car’s battery is like the heart of your vehicle – it powers everything from starting your engine to running your electronics. Yet, it’s often the most neglected component until it fails. This is where understanding the importance of a battery charger, especially a trickle charger, comes into play. Let’s explore how these devices can not only save you from the disappointment of a dead battery but also extend its lifespan significantly.

The vital role of a battery charger

Picture this: last winter, during a particularly cold spell, Marie found herself stuck in her driveway with a car that wouldn’t start. It was early morning, and she had an important meeting to attend. After hours of waiting for a recovery vehicle and an expensive jump-start service, she vowed never to let her battery catch her off guard again.

A battery charger is your proactive shield against such situations. Unlike traditional chargers that deliver a quick burst of charge and then stop, potentially harming your battery over time, a trickle charger works differently. It provides a steady, low current to your battery, keeping it topped up without overcharging. This gentle maintenance prevents sulfation – the leading cause of battery failure – by ensuring your battery stays in optimal condition.

Why you need a trickle charger

Chris, a seasoned road-tripper, understands the importance of keeping his vehicle in top shape. He recalls a journey where a dead battery stranded him in an unfamiliar town. With no nearby service station and limited mobile phone reception, the experience was not only frustrating but also costly. Since then, he’s sworn by the effectiveness of a car battery trickle charger in maintaining his battery’s health.

By using a trickle charger regularly, especially during periods of infrequent vehicle use or extreme weather conditions, you ensure that your battery remains charged and ready to go when you are. It’s like giving your car’s heart a daily workout to keep it strong and reliable.

Choosing the right trickle charger

When selecting a trickle charger, consider factors such as compatibility with your battery type, voltage output and safety features like automatic shut-off to prevent overcharging. Investing in a quality charger tailored to your vehicle’s needs can save you from future headaches and expenses.

A personal anecdote: The imaginary Scotland incident

Last summer, as we set off for Scotland, our car unexpectedly refused to start. After checking everything from the ignition to the fuel, we realised it was the battery that had let us down. Luckily, a nearby mechanic had a trickle charger on hand. Within hours, our battery was revived, and we were back on track to enjoy our holiday. That incident taught us a valuable lesson about the importance of battery maintenance and the reliability of a trickle charger.

In essence, integrating a trickle charger into your vehicle maintenance routine is not just about convenience – it’s about safeguarding your investment and ensuring peace of mind. Whether you’re preparing for a family road trip, facing harsh winters or simply want to extend the life of your battery, a trickle charger is your trusted ally. Remember, a well-maintained battery not only starts your car reliably but also saves you from unexpected detours and expenses down the road. So, next time you think about caring for your vehicle, think about the heart of it – your battery – and consider how a trickle charger can make all the difference.

[disclosure*]

Auction Alert: Petroliana – Enamel signs, petrol pump globes, oil cans and early advertising

Eight oil pourers; inc. Shell X-100 pint, Smiths Bluecol, Fina, Esso, Shell anti-freeze etc

Petroliana is a new word on us. We’ve heard of automobilia in the past; however, judging by the names, ‘petroliana’ refers to things found in a gas/petrol station or garage and ‘automobilia’ is the term for anything car/van/motorbike/automobile-related.

Petroliana – Enamel signs, petrol pump globes, oil cans and early advertising takes place on 29th June 2024, from 9:30am. The sale is being run by Richard Edmonds Auctions who are based in Chippenham, Wiltshire. There are 514 lots, and we’ve chosen to highlight some of the items in the sale that you don’t have to be a ‘petrol head’ to appreciate… We certainly aren’t! They’re all things that would look great in any home, garden, greenhouse, man cave, she shed etc.

There’s a buyer’s premium of 16.67% (exc. VAT) and a further online commission of 3% (exc. VAT) on top, so bear that in mind before you place any bids.

In addition to in the room bidding, bids can be left with us, live bidding over the telephone available as well as through the-saleroom.com

Michelin Mr. Bibendum bakelite ashtray

Lot 46: A Michelin Mr. Bibendum bakelite ashtray

Estimate: £200-£300

1950s Michellin Bibendum 'Baby Girl' moneybox

Lot 110: A 1950s Michelin Bibendum ‘Baby Girl’ moneybox

5 1/4″ tall.
Estimate: £180-£200

Shell Motor Oil metal pint jug

Lot 114: A Shell Motor Oil pint jug

Estimate: £150-£200

Framed Pratt's advertising mirror

Lot 120: A Pratt’s Perfection Spirit framed and glazed advertising mirror

Depicting a Pratt’s Perfection Spirit two-gallon can, 20 1/4 x 26 1/4″.
Estimate: £300-£400

Set of Peek traffic lights

Lot 145: A set of Peek traffic lights

Lights on rotation between the three colours, 37″ tall x 13 1/2″ wide x 8″ deep, shades detachable.
Estimate: £100-£200

Eight oil pourers; inc. Shell X-100 pint, Smiths Bluecol, Fina, Esso, Shell anti-freeze etc

Lot 173: Eight oil pourers

Inc. Shell X-100 pint, Smiths Bluecol, Fina, Esso, Shell anti-freeze etc.
Estimate: £50-£80

A selection of playworn models of petrol pumps etc, some stamped Dinky

Lot 187: A selection of play-worn models of petrol pumps etc, some stamped Dinky

Estimate: £15-£25

Michelin First Aid (tyre repair) tin cabinet/toolbox

Lot 200: A Michelin First Aid (tyre repair) tin cabinet/toolbox

Unusually still with inside partitions and some original contents, 16 x 8 1/4 x 4 1/4″ closed, 16 x 16″ opened.
Estimate: £300-£500

Dunlop Fan Belts wall-mounted rack

Lot 231: A Dunlop Fan Belts wall-mounted rack

Estimate: £40-£60

Motorcraft acrylic wall clock

Lot 256: A Motorcraft acrylic wall clock

With illustrations advertising the brand’s products, 15 x 15 3/4″.
Estimate: £150-£200

Shell moulded plastic watering can

Lot 307: A Shell plastic watering can

Estimate: £150-£200

National Benzole four-sided hanging light with glass sides

Lot 372: A National Benzole four-sided hanging light with glass sides

One frosted glass side, another Night Service with NB logo, another with a five-digit phone number and logo and the other a second Night Service with NB logo (very heavy).
Estimate: £300-£500

Castrol Anti-freeze garage wall thermometer

Lot 385: A Castrol Anti-freeze garage wall thermometer

8 1/4 x 22 1/2″.
Estimate: £80-£120

In the battery bunker: Getting to know your car’s power source

In the battery bunker: Getting to know your car's power sourcecredit

Welcome to the underappreciated powerhouse of your vehicle: the car battery. Have you ever found yourself stranded on a deserted road, your car refusing to start, only to discover later that it was all due to a fluke? Well, fear not, because by the end of this guide, you’ll be well-equipped to handle any battery-related predicament that comes your way. Let’s dive into the heart of your car’s electrical system and uncover the mysteries of its lifeblood: the car battery.

Understanding the fluke: A brush with unpredictability

Picture this, you’re on your way to an important meeting, cruising down the highway without a care in the world. Suddenly, your engine sputters and dies, leaving you stranded on the shoulder. After what feels like an eternity, a kind stranger stops to help jumpstart your car. As you drive away, you can’t help but wonder, “What caused this unexpected mishap?”

As it turns out, your car’s battery had fallen victim to a fluke – a random occurrence that disrupted its normal function. Flukes can manifest in various forms, from extreme weather conditions to faulty electrical connections. While frustrating, these incidents serve as a reminder of the importance of regular maintenance and vigilance when it comes to your car battery.

Navigating the blacklist: dealing with battery woes

Have you ever experienced the dread of realising that your name is on someone’s blacklist? Similarly, your car battery can find itself in a similar predicament if not properly cared for. Over time, factors such as age, temperature fluctuations and prolonged periods of inactivity can contribute to the deterioration of your battery’s performance.

To avoid finding yourself on the automotive equivalent of a blacklist, it’s crucial to stay proactive. Regularly inspect your car battery for signs of corrosion or leakage, and ensure that it’s securely fastened in place. Additionally, consider investing in a battery tester to monitor its health and detect any potential issues before they escalate.

The university of battery maintenance: a crash course in care

Imagine enrolling in a university dedicated solely to the study of battery maintenance. While such an institution may not exist, you can still equip yourself with the knowledge needed to prolong the lifespan of your car’s power source. By adhering to a few simple guidelines, you can become a master of battery care in no time.

First and foremost, be mindful of your driving habits. Short, frequent trips can place added strain on your battery, so try to consolidate errands whenever possible. Additionally, avoid leaving accessories such as headlights or air conditioning running when the engine is off, as this can drain your battery prematurely.

Furthermore, scheduling regular car battery replacement intervals is essential for ensuring optimal performance. While the lifespan of a typical car battery can vary depending on factors such as usage and climate, most experts recommend replacing it every three to five years. By doing so, you can avoid the inconvenience of unexpected breakdowns and keep your vehicle running smoothly for years to come.

Your car’s battery may reside out of sight, tucked away in the depths of the engine bay, but its importance cannot be overstated. From powering your morning commute to embarking on cross-country road trips, your battery plays a vital role in keeping you on the move. By familiarising yourself with its inner workings and implementing a proactive maintenance routine, you can ensure that your car’s power source remains reliable and resilient in the face of whatever challenges the road may throw your way.

[disclosure*]

Price Points: Rooftop tents

Rooftop tents

I can’t wait for summer! It’s the time of year that you spend more time outdoors; travelling a bit, doing some sightseeing, going to the beach, wild camping, hitting the boot sales at the crack of dawn…

We’ve toyed with the idea of getting ourselves a vintage camper van, but one of these rooftop tents is a really good stopgap. They’re better than run-of-the-mill tents because they’re raised off the ground, on to the roof of your vehicle; meaning the occupants are spared coming into contact with the cold, hard ground when they’re lying down to sleep. It also means that the probability of being visited by ground-dwelling critters (ants, scorpions, snakes, hyenas, grizzly bears… sorry, I’m letting my imagination get the better of me!) is diminished!

If extra space is needed (perhaps for storage or for the dog to bed down), a lower awning or ‘annex’ are options with some models. I like the idea of ‘gas-assisted opening’, so you’re not struggling with setting it up – especially if there happens to be gusts of wind or a very British downpour.

  1. Ventura Deluxe 1.4 rooftop tent: £749.00, Ventura Roof Tents

    The Ventura Deluxe 1.4 is an all round incredible roof tent. It opens up in seconds, sleeps 2-3 adults and is made from durable materials for the most extreme conditions. Weighing just 45kgs, the roof tent easily mounts on a set of roof bars on any small car, 4×4, pick up, van or trailer.

  2. TUFF-TREK® TT-02 1.6m Soft Top Tent PRO Ruggedized: £1,650.00, Tuff Trek
    • 320g polycotton fabric
    • XTRA large fly sheet design
    • XTRA large / double size side windows – improved ventilation in hot climates
    • Tent body: 320g ripstop poly cotton canvas
    • Flysheet: HD 420d fire retardant polyester fabric
    • Lower annex room: 420d fire retardant polyester fabric, zipped in PVC ground sheet
    • Upgraded 25mm aluminium frame tubes
    • Rugged aluminium chequer plate base
    • 1.65m wide model
    • Lower annex room – included in price
    • 70mm memory foam style mattress included (removable, washable cover)
    • Free lower cargo net system
    • 2x piece ladder included
    • Fits most vehicles
  3. TentBox Classic: £2,250.00, TentBox
    • 2-person capacity
    • Gas assisted opening, takes 1 min
    • Space to store bedding & ladder inside
    • Ladder, mattress & fixing kit included

shop rooftop tents

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Prices & links correct at time of publication.

Ventura Deluxe 1.4 rooftop tent
Ventura Deluxe 1.4 rooftop tent
£749.00
TentBox Classic
TentBox Classic
£2,250.00
TUFF-TREK® TT-02 1.6m Soft Top Tent PRO Ruggedized
TUFF-TREK® TT-02 1.6m Soft Top Tent PRO Ruggedized
£1,650.00
Ventura Deluxe 1.4 rooftop tent
Ventura Deluxe 1.4 rooftop tent
£749.00
TentBox Classic
TentBox Classic
£2,250.00
TUFF-TREK® TT-02 1.6m Soft Top Tent PRO Ruggedized
TUFF-TREK® TT-02 1.6m Soft Top Tent PRO Ruggedized
£1,650.00
Ventura Deluxe 1.4 rooftop tent
Ventura Deluxe 1.4 rooftop tent
£749.00
TentBox Classic
TentBox Classic
£2,250.00
TUFF-TREK® TT-02 1.6m Soft Top Tent PRO Ruggedized
TUFF-TREK® TT-02 1.6m Soft Top Tent PRO Ruggedized
£1,650.00
Ventura Deluxe 1.4 rooftop tent
Ventura Deluxe 1.4 rooftop tent
£749.00
TentBox Classic
TentBox Classic
£2,250.00
TUFF-TREK® TT-02 1.6m Soft Top Tent PRO Ruggedized
TUFF-TREK® TT-02 1.6m Soft Top Tent PRO Ruggedized
£1,650.00
Ventura Deluxe 1.4 rooftop tent
Ventura Deluxe 1.4 rooftop tent
£749.00
TentBox Classic
TentBox Classic
£2,250.00
TUFF-TREK® TT-02 1.6m Soft Top Tent PRO Ruggedized
TUFF-TREK® TT-02 1.6m Soft Top Tent PRO Ruggedized
£1,650.00