How Does a Mains Battery Charger Work

A mains battery charger converts high-voltage household electricity into low-voltage DC power suitable for your leisure battery.

Most modern chargers, often referred to as smart chargers, use a multi-stage charging process to protect battery health and ensure efficient charging:

• Bulk: Delivers maximum current to charge the battery quickly (typically up to around 80%)
• Absorption: Reduces current while maintaining voltage to bring the battery to full charge
• Float: Maintains the battery at full charge without overcharging

This controlled process ensures your leisure battery charges safely, efficiently, and to its full capacity.

However, not all mains chargers include these features. Basic or older chargers may provide a constant, unregulated output, which can lead to overcharging, undercharging, or reduced battery lifespan, particularly with AGM or Lithium batteries.