Best Commercial Battery Chargers Reviewed

Features of a Good Commercial Grade Charger

There are quite a few different commercial battery charger options on the market. Choosing the right one means understanding the charging needs of the vehicles in question and the desired industrial usage. There are different features to be considered in order to make the right choice and investment.

Starting Assist

Some models have a start assist. This is useful if time is of the essence. The start assist powers up the vehicle without waiting for a full capacity battery charge. This is not standard on all models, so look out for it as an option. Check charger specifications to ensure it is equipped to start 6V and 12V batteries.

Easy Transport

The charger has a large job, so it makes sense it is a large device. But this also means a powerful charger will be heavy. Hauling it from one vehicle to the next will quickly become draining. This is why checking for added wheels and handle will make using it easier. Wheels are essential if the charger needs to be transported.

Battery Testing

Of course, sometimes it is not a question of charging the battery but rather of replacing it entirely. Some charging systems have the capability to detect if the battery is bad or unable to accept a charge. It will let you know when charging time really needs to be replacement time.

Output Voltage

Battery voltage varies within different industries. It is possible to be working with 6V or 12V batteries, or both. Purchasing a charger means determining its capability of handling necessary battery voltages.

Continuous Charging Amps

The basic car charger runs at about two amps. This will take 24 hours to deliver the 48 amps required to charge the typical 48-amp hour battery. Since there is a wide range of battery chargers, all providing various levels of continuous charging amps, you want to choose one with a higher output if you want to spend less time charging.

Crank Assist

If you don’t want to wait for charging, you want a model that features crank assist. This allows you to receive the juice needed to get started without waiting for a full capacity charge. Not every unit comes with this function, but most commercial units do. Just pay attention to the specifications to make sure you get what you need.

Durability

Battery chargers don’t respond well to heat, which is why a high-quality commercial battery charger will include a powerful cooling mechanism that prevents overheating. If you want the heavy-duty battery charger to last as long as possible, you want to pay attention to what integrated fan is incorporated into the design.

Safety Features

A professional battery charger doesn’t just provide plenty of power, but can also be dangerous. If you find a unit with insulated alligator spring clamps, you have more protection from shock. You also want to look for reverse polarity detection, which lets you know if the clamps were incorrectly attached. Finally, make sure you examine the commercial truck battery charger for CSA/UL testing certification.

Commercial Battery Chargers Compared

1. Battery Tender 5-Bank

The best commercial battery charger in our book is this option from Battery Tender. This commercial battery charger can be used as a 12V or 6V machine with its switchable option. You can use it simultaneously on up to five batteries. Once the battery is fully charged, the unit automatically switches to a float or maintenance voltage.

This system also strives to provide safe charging. It comes with complex microchip circuitry to avoid dead-short sparking. With this setup, the charger won’t activate the output voltage until the clips are properly connected to the car or truck battery. Many shop owners find this is the ideal solution for battery maintenance since it can be hooked up and left to work.

Furthermore, this heavy-duty commercial battery charger contains reverse polarity protection. With the 72-hour built-in safety times, you don’t have to worry about overcharging either. This machine comes complete with six-foot leads and clamps, plus the manufacturer provides an industry-leading three-year warranty for peace of mind.

The best part is that you don’t have to spend a fortune to receive this commercial battery charger. Of course, it might not provide the power to handle the largest batteries, but it will work for the majority of auto shops. Just look at the reviews, and you will quickly see this unit is a winner.

2. Associated Equipments 6002B

Commercial battery chargers can address needs for various industries, particularly for those looking to charge a variety of vehicle types in a fleet. Searching for the right charger includes deciding between key features and elements before making an investment in the equipment.

Very few models are “the complete package” and combine versatility and power in a strong way. The Associated Equipment Amp Charger with Cranking Assist is one of those few models. It is among the highest performance chargers currently on the market.

This charger packs a powerful punch thanks to its durable transformer. It has fully insulated clamps with flexible spring clamps providing 500 amps. It is also able to provide up to 80 amps of continuous charge and a 400-amp cranking assist. With a patented “Sub-Sil” multi-diode rectifiers and AC cord/DC leads, the charger lives up to its reputation for high performance.

The Associated Equipment Amp Charger is very durable and able to operate safely in any weather. At the same time, it has wheels and a chrome plated handle to allow for transportation. The 7-inch wheels are also necessary to handle the weight of this 70-pound charger.

The goal with any commercial battery charger is to find a tool able to reduce industrial worries. This charger comes with several aspects designed to achieve just that. The analog display enables clear and easy tracking of amps and charge. This charger is able to avoid overheating through its cooling fan. Fans also increase the longevity of battery charger usage. The automatic timer also allows for timed operation without a need for continuous monitoring. A stop/go light further increases the safety features of this unit. It also has an automatic reset for AC/DC circuit breakers.

This amp charger from Associated Equipment has a great reach as well. The power cord is 10 feet in length and accompanied by an 8 feet long connection cable. The reach allows for usage in tight spaces or in areas where the full unit cannot be set down. While voltage and power is great, breaking it down to the facts can be more useful in determining the right battery charger match.

3. Associated Equipment US20

If you need the best professional battery charger, but don’t want to spend a lot of money, this Associated Equipment option might be ideal for you. It provides plenty of power, but at a lower cost than most. This system features a convenient handle and comfortable grip so you can take it anywhere. It also has a quality steel foot for stable, long-term usage.

These best rated commercial vehicle battery chargers are perfect for a do-it-yourself user or small repair shop. This model features a 40A continuous rating at both 6V and 12V. It also contains a 200A cranking assist in getting that battery working right away. With the full 330A manufacturer boost rating, you have the capability you need. It also contains a 90-minute timer. 

With the fan cooling included, you won’t have to worry about overheating during operation. This simple addition allows the charger to last longer than other machines. Use this durable charger in any weather and rest easy knowing that it is CSA listed for both the United States and Canada.

Keep in mind that this lower-priced machine won’t have the capability to handle large batteries, but it will get you by for everyday projects. What’s most surprising is how this charger comes with a two-year warranty despite the lower price.

4. Associated Equipment 6001A

If you don’t need 18V or 24V capability, this is one of the best heavy-duty 12v battery charger options available to you. It’s considered one of the fastest and highest-performing units. You can use it in any weather environment for complete versatility. We recommend it for the smaller repair shops or home garage.

There is an included fan cooling mechanism that prevents overheating. With this setup, you receive maximum durability, ensuring that the industrial automotive battery charger lasts longer than you would expect. According to the reviews, this commercial battery charger/starter exceeds the expectations of many. Plus, this unit is made in the United States, and it is UL and CSA listed. 

This charger operates at a 6/12-volt capacity with 100/75-amp power. It also features a 375A cranking assist. While this system isn't extremely heavy, the attached wheels do make operation more manageable than before. There are some comparable systems with a lower price tag. If you aren’t worried about the price, you will see that this system has more rave reviews than many other commercial car battery charger options. On top of that, this unit does come with a two-year warranty, so you won’t have to worry about any defects.

5. Schumacher INC100

When you are looking for the best shop battery charger, you can't go wrong with anything from Schumacher. This manufacturer has become a leader in the industry. This fully automatic battery charger works on regular automotive batteries, as well as AGM, lead-acid, calcium, gel cell, and start-stop models.

With the adjustable mounting brackets, you won’t have any trouble working with any shop lift. The voltage on this unit can be set from 13 to 14.8V. It also features a manual mode with a digital timer. You’ll notice the durable design with heavy-duty clamps and replaceable jaws.

With the dual temperature-controlled cooling fans, you know that this is a heavy-duty automotive battery charger that gives other models a run for their money. Because this system only weighs 16 pounds, it is the ideal option for jobs on the go. If you perform tasks in different locations, this might be your best choice.

The price is reasonable, and this portable battery charger also comes with a one-year warranty for additional security. For the price, you can’t expect a 300 amp battery charger, but this one handles the majority of situations that a typical auto repair shop would face. It’s one of the best commercial vehicle battery chargers if portability needs to be a top priority.

Battery Reconditioning

One of the ways you can get the most out of your battery charger is to use it while reconditioning batteries. The money you save doing this instead of buying new batteries will help pay for a new charger in no time.

Charging a Dead Car Battery

Before you charge a dead car battery, you must take some safety precautions. Place the charger as far from the vehicle as possible. Remember to always use the red jumper first and make sure you don’t touch the clamps while the charger is on. Then, you want to select the right setting for the vehicle you are working on. The crank assist setting is simply used to jump-start a battery.

Commercial Battery Charger: Care & Maintenance

Whenever you work with commercial batteries and chargers, you must take special steps to maintain your equipment. Before use, you should always check the cables and connectors on your commercial battery chargers for cars. Look for any signs of wear or damage.

If you notice something isn’t right, don’t use the charger. After use, make sure you wipe off any dirt or debris and store it in a cool, dry environment.

People Also Ask (FAQs)

How long does it take to charge a car battery with a commercial battery charger?

If you jump-start the vehicle, you can rely on the alternator to charge it as you drive. It would take about an hour to achieve a full charge this way. By using a battery charger, you will need more time, but it all depends on the amperage put out by the commercial-grade battery charger.

Can I leave my car battery charging overnight? What happens if I overcharge my car battery?

You might damage the battery if you leave it continuously connected. If you plan to leave it on for a long time, you want a system that has an intelligent charger and automatically switches to a maintenance mode once it is charged.

What are the differences between an automatic and manual battery charger?

The manual battery charger requires input from you as the battery charges. You will need to remove it once the battery is fully charged, where an automatic charger knows when to switch to a maintenance mode and lessen the chance of damage.

How long do these commercial heavy duty battery chargers last?

Depending on which model you purchase, you can expect many years out of the best heavy-duty battery charger. Obviously, you want to buy a unit from a reputable manufacturer that has positive reviews and an included warranty.

Can you use a car battery charger on a marine battery?

No, the car battery charger doesn’t have the power you need on trickle charge. What you need for deep cycle marine batteries is ten amps instead.

How do you test a commercial battery charger?

If you aren’t sure if the battery charger is working, you can use your voltmeter to determine if it has enough power.

Conclusion

For the majority of shops, it makes sense to purchase the Battery Tender 5-Bank . Of course, if you work on large semis, you will want a truck battery charger instead. In that case, look for the best 24-volt battery charger, such as this model. 

Whatever your needs are, it isn’t difficult to find the best battery charger for your applications. The bottom line is to know industry needs and find the right match in the market of commercial battery chargers. Consider all elements, from wheels to manufacturer warranty and beyond.