Everstart Charger

Last year, I found myself stranded in my driveway on a frosty December morning. My car battery had given up the ghost after sitting unused during a two-week vacation. That frustrating experience led me down a rabbit hole of research on battery chargers, and eventually to my trusty Everstart. After countless hours of use and testing, I’m sharing everything I’ve learned about these lifesaving devices.

Let me tell you—owning a reliable battery charger has changed my relationship with my vehicles. No more panic when I hear that dreaded clicking sound! If you’ve ever faced a dead battery (and who hasn’t?), this comprehensive guide is for you.

What Exactly Is an Everstart Charger Used For?

An Everstart battery charger is essentially your battery’s best friend. At its core, this device converts AC power from your wall outlet into DC power that your battery can use to recharge itself. But it’s not just for emergencies when your car won’t start.

I’ve found my Everstart charger invaluable for:

• Reviving completely dead batteries
• Providing a slow, healthy charge to extend battery life
• Maintaining batteries during seasonal storage (like my motorcycle over winter)
• Jump-starting vehicles in emergency situations (with certain models)
• Diagnosing basic battery health issues

The first time I used my Everstart to bring a seemingly “dead” battery back to life, I was genuinely surprised. My neighbor had written off his riding lawnmower battery after it sat in his unheated garage all winter. After connecting my charger for about 8 hours, that mower fired right up!

The most important thing to understand about battery chargers is that they’re not just emergency tools—they’re preventative maintenance devices that can significantly extend the life of your expensive batteries.

The Science Behind the Magic: How Does an Everstart Charger Work?

Understanding how these chargers work has helped me use mine more effectively. Inside every Everstart charger is a transformer that converts your home’s 120V AC power to a lower voltage DC current that’s suitable for battery charging. Different models use different charging methods:

1. Basic models use a simple constant charge rate
2. Smart chargers monitor the battery and adjust the charging rate
3. Multi-stage chargers follow a sophisticated charging algorithm

The more advanced models work in several phases:

• Bulk phase: Applies maximum current until the battery reaches about 80% charge
• Absorption phase: Reduces current while maintaining voltage to safely reach full charge
• Float/maintenance phase: Delivers just enough power to keep the battery at 100% without overcharging

I started with a basic model but upgraded to a smart charger after learning about the benefits of multi-stage charging. The difference was noticeable—my batteries now hold their charge longer, and I’ve stopped worrying about overcharging.

Compatibility Questions: Will It Work With My Battery?

This was one of my first concerns. I own a sedan, an SUV, a motorcycle, and various power equipment—would one charger work for everything?

Everstart chargers are remarkably versatile. Most models are compatible with:

• Standard lead-acid automotive batteries
• Absorbed Glass Mat (AGM) batteries
• Gel cell batteries
• Deep cycle batteries
• Marine batteries

For most standard vehicles (cars, trucks, SUVs), any Everstart charger will work perfectly. However, I’ve discovered some important nuances:

For my motorcycle and smaller vehicles, I need to be careful about amperage settings. Using a high-amp setting on a small battery can cause damage. Fortunately, many Everstart models have adjustable amp settings specifically for this purpose.

With my lawn tractor’s deep cycle battery, I make sure to use a charger with a specific deep cycle setting or lower amp rating to ensure a proper, slow charge.

I once made the mistake of trying to use my basic Everstart on a friend’s hybrid vehicle. Don’t do this! Hybrid and electric vehicles have specialized battery systems that require manufacturer-approved charging equipment.

Safety First: Using Your Everstart Charger Without Incident

I take battery safety seriously after witnessing a neighbor’s close call with battery acid. Here’s my personal safety checklist that I follow religiously:

1. Always charge in a well-ventilated area (I learned this the hard way after charging in my closed garage and smelling hydrogen gas)
2. Wear safety glasses and gloves when connecting/disconnecting
3. Never smoke or have open flames near a charging battery
4. Double-check polarity before connecting (red to positive, black to negative)
5. Connect the charger with the power OFF
6. Place the charger as far from the battery as cables allow
7. Never charge a visibly damaged or frozen battery
8. Keep the charging area clear of flammable materials

One safety feature I particularly appreciate on my Everstart is reverse polarity protection. When I accidentally reversed the connections once (we all make mistakes!), the charger simply didn’t activate rather than causing damage or danger.

The AGM and Gel Battery Question

When I upgraded my boat to an AGM battery last summer, I worried my existing charger might not be compatible. Here’s what I discovered:

Most newer Everstart models explicitly support AGM and gel batteries, often with dedicated settings. These specialized batteries require more precise voltage control during charging to prevent damage.

The mid-range and premium Everstart models typically feature:

• Specific AGM settings
• Gel battery compatibility
• Microprocessor control for proper charging profiles

If you’re using these premium battery types, I’d recommend looking for an Everstart model that specifically mentions AGM/gel compatibility. The small additional cost is worth protecting your investment in these higher-end batteries.

My personal experience? After switching to a compatible Everstart model with my AGM marine battery, I’ve seen noticeably better performance and longevity compared to using a standard charger.

The Waiting Game: Charging Time Expectations

“How long will this take?” was one of my first questions when I started using battery chargers. The answer depends on several factors:

• Battery size (amp-hour rating)
• How depleted the battery is
• The charger’s amperage rating
• Battery type and condition

As a general rule of thumb that has served me well:

• A completely dead car battery (around 50Ah) charged with a 2-amp charger will take approximately 24+ hours
• The same battery with a 10-amp charger might take 5-6 hours
• A 15-amp charger could complete the job in 3-4 hours
• Emergency “jump” settings (50+ amps) are only for starting the vehicle, not charging

My real-world experience shows these are approximate times—older batteries or very depleted ones often take longer. I’ve found that patience pays off; slower charging is typically better for battery health.

For regular maintenance charging of a healthy battery, I typically connect my Everstart overnight and wake up to a fully charged battery. For deeply discharged batteries, I set aside a full weekend day to ensure a complete charge.

Feature Breakdown: What to Look For in an Everstart Charger

After trying several models, I’ve developed my own checklist of features worth having:

Essential Features:

• Automatic shutoff when fully charged
• Multiple amperage settings (2A, 10A, 15A)
• Reverse polarity protection
• LED indicators for charging status
• Built-in circuit protection

Nice-to-Have Features:

• Digital display showing voltage and charge percentage
• Battery testing/diagnostic functions
• Engine start assist (for emergency jumps)
• Microprocessor control for optimal charging
• Desulfation mode for rejuvenating old batteries
• Temperature compensation for outdoor use

Premium Features:

• Rapid charge technology
• Memory saver to preserve vehicle settings during battery disconnection
• Multiple battery bank charging
• Portable design with built-in cable management
• Reconditioning function for deeply discharged batteries

The basic Everstart model I started with had just the essential features, but I eventually upgraded to a mid-range model with diagnostics. The ability to test my battery’s health before a long trip has proven invaluable.

Automatic Shutoff: A Critical Safety Feature

This feature has saved me more than once. Early in my battery charging journey, I connected a charger to my seasonal vehicle and then completely forgot about it… for days. Without automatic shutoff, I could have seriously damaged the battery or worse.

All current Everstart models include automatic shutoff technology that detects when your battery reaches full charge and either:

1. Completely shuts down the charging process, or
2. Switches to a maintenance/float mode that prevents overcharging

This feature isn’t just about convenience—it’s about safety and battery longevity. Overcharging can cause batteries to overheat, leak acid, or even explode in extreme cases.

I particularly appreciate the models that switch to maintenance mode rather than shutting off completely. When preparing my classic car for summer driving after winter storage, I can connect the charger and know it’s keeping the battery in perfect condition until I’m ready to drive.

Budget Considerations: What Should You Expect to Pay?

Battery chargers range widely in price, and after trying models across the spectrum, I can offer some guidance on what your money buys:

Entry-Level ($30-50):

• Basic manual chargers
• Single charging rate
• Limited safety features
• Suitable for occasional emergency use

Mid-Range ($50-100):

• Smart charging technology
• Multiple charging rates
• Basic diagnostic features
• Good for regular maintenance

Premium ($100-200+):

• Multi-stage charging
• Advanced diagnostics
• Engine start capabilities
• Multiple battery type settings
• Professional-grade construction

I started with a $40 model that served me well for basic needs, but as I added more vehicles to my household, I upgraded to a $120 model with more sophisticated features. The investment has paid for itself in extended battery life and fewer replacements.

For most homeowners with 1-2 vehicles, I think the mid-range models offer the best balance of features and value. If you maintain multiple vehicles, work with specialty batteries, or need professional-grade equipment, the premium models make sense.

Where to Purchase Your Everstart Charger

Everstart is Walmart’s house brand for automotive accessories, so naturally, Walmart stores and Walmart.com are the primary retailers. However, I’ve also found them through:

• Auto parts stores like AutoZone and O’Reilly
• Online marketplaces (though beware of counterfeits)
• Occasionally at home improvement stores

In my experience, the best prices are typically at Walmart, especially during automotive sales events. I’ve also had good luck finding discounted models at the end of winter when demand decreases.

When purchasing online, be sure to check shipping weights if portability matters to you—some of the more powerful models can be surprisingly heavy!

Beyond Cars: Using Everstart Chargers for Motorcycles and More

As a motorcycle enthusiast, this question was important to me. Can I use the same charger for my car and motorcycle?

The answer is yes, with caveats. Motorcycle batteries are typically smaller (15-20Ah compared to 40-60Ah for cars), so they require gentler charging. Here’s what I’ve learned:

• Always use the lowest amperage setting (usually 2A) for motorcycles
• Look for chargers with specific motorcycle modes
• Consider a dedicated motorcycle maintainer for long-term storage

I use my Everstart with the 2A setting for my motorcycle, and it works perfectly. For winter storage, I switch to a dedicated battery maintainer with a motorcycle-specific algorithm, though some premium Everstart models now include this function.

Beyond motorcycles, I’ve successfully used my Everstart charger on:

• ATVs and UTVs
• Lawn tractors and mowers
• Snowblowers
• Small boats
• Power sport equipment

The key is matching the charging amperage to the battery size—when in doubt, go lower and slower.

Troubleshooting Common Everstart Charger Issues

Over years of use, I’ve encountered a few hiccups with my chargers. Here are the most common issues I’ve faced and how I’ve resolved them:

Charger Won’t Turn On:

• Check power outlet with another device
• Inspect power cord for damage
• Verify the cooling fan isn’t blocked (some models have thermal shutdown)

No Charging Current:

• Ensure clamps have good contact with battery terminals
• Clean corrosion from battery terminals with a wire brush
• Check for reverse polarity connection
• Verify battery voltage isn’t too low for detection (might need manual startup mode)

Charging Takes Too Long:

• Consider upgrading to a higher amperage model
• Check for parasitic draws in the vehicle
• Battery may be sulfated or nearing end of life
• Ambient temperature may be affecting charging speed

Charger Shows Error Codes:

• Reference the manual for specific code meanings
• Most common: battery too depleted, connection issues, or internal charger fault
• Some errors can be cleared by disconnecting and reconnecting

One time, my charger repeatedly showed an error code that the manual didn’t explain well. A call to Everstart customer service quickly resolved the issue—they explained it was detecting an internal short in my battery, which indeed needed replacement.

Understanding Voltage Settings and Their Importance

This is an area where a little technical knowledge goes a long way. Everstart chargers typically support:

• 6V settings for older vehicles, golf carts, and some power equipment
• 12V settings for standard automotive applications
• 24V settings on some models for commercial vehicles

Using the wrong voltage setting can damage your battery or prevent charging altogether. I learned this lesson when trying to charge my vintage motorcycle with a 12V setting when it actually needed the 6V setting!

Beyond basic voltage selection, advanced models offer adjustable charging voltages for different battery chemistries:

• 14.4-14.7V for standard lead-acid batteries
• 14.1-14.4V for AGM batteries
• 13.8-14.1V for gel batteries

My current model automatically detects battery type and adjusts accordingly, which has eliminated the guesswork and prevented potential damage.

Battery Maintenance: Using Everstart for Long-Term Health

One of the best uses for an Everstart charger is preventative maintenance. Regular charging cycles can dramatically extend battery life—something I wish I’d known before replacing several perfectly restorable batteries.

For vehicles I don’t drive regularly, I now follow this maintenance schedule:

• Monthly connection to the charger for a full charge cycle
• For seasonal vehicles, connection to a maintainer setting during the off-season
• Quarterly battery terminal cleaning and inspection
• Twice-yearly load testing using the charger’s diagnostic function

Since implementing this regimen, I haven’t had to replace a battery in over three years, despite having multiple seasonal-use vehicles.

Modern Everstart chargers with maintenance/float modes are perfect for this application—they provide just enough power to counteract natural self-discharge without overcharging.

Monitoring Charging Progress: How to Know It’s Working

The first time I connected a charger, I wasn’t entirely sure if it was actually doing anything. Now I know exactly what indicators to look for:

Visual Indicators:

• LED lights showing charging status (typically red for charging, green for complete)
• Ammeter readings showing current flow
• Digital displays showing battery voltage increasing
• Percentage displays on premium models

Physical Signs:

• Very slight warming of the battery (normal during charging)
• Electrolyte movement in batteries with visible cells
• Lack of further progress on voltage readings indicates completion

I’ve found the digital models particularly helpful because they provide real-time feedback on the charging process. Watching the voltage slowly climb from 10.5V to 12.6V gives me confidence the charger is working as intended.

One tip from experience: if the voltage jumps immediately to 12.6V+ when you connect the charger, your battery probably isn’t accepting a charge and might need replacement.

Charger vs. Maintainer: Understanding the Difference

This distinction confused me initially. Here’s how I’ve come to understand it:

Battery Chargers:

• Deliver higher amperage (2A-50A)
• Designed to relatively quickly bring discharged batteries back to full charge
• May include maintenance modes as secondary functions
• Typically larger and less portable

Battery Maintainers:

• Deliver very low amperage (0.5A-1.5A)
• Designed for long-term connection during storage
• Focus on preventing discharge rather than recharging
• Usually smaller and more weather-resistant

Many Everstart products are hybrid units that function as both chargers and maintainers. My current model has a specific “maintenance mode” that I use for my classic car during winter storage.

For most home users, I recommend these hybrid models for maximum versatility. If you only need emergency charging, a basic charger is sufficient. If you primarily store vehicles seasonally, a dedicated maintainer might be more appropriate.

Cold Weather Performance: Will It Work in Winter?

This question became relevant when I moved to a colder climate. Batteries struggle in cold weather, and that’s often when you need a charger most!

Most Everstart chargers will function in cold temperatures, but with some limitations:

• Charging efficiency decreases as temperature drops
• Some models have temperature compensation to adjust charging parameters
• Very cold batteries (below 20°F/-6°C) should be warmed before charging
• LCD displays may respond slowly in extreme cold

My experience in Minnesota winters taught me to bring batteries indoors when possible before charging. When that’s not an option, I’ve found that covering the battery with a blanket (while ensuring ventilation) helps maintain charging efficiency.

Premium Everstart models with temperature compensation technology are worth the investment if you live in an extremely cold climate. These units adjust voltage and current based on ambient temperature for safer, more effective charging.

Portability Considerations: Taking Your Charger on the Go

Depending on your needs, portability might be a major factor in your decision. Everstart chargers range from compact models weighing under 2 pounds to heavy-duty units exceeding 20 pounds.

For my emergency roadside kit, I keep a compact Everstart model that weighs about 3 pounds and can easily fit in my trunk. For home use, I have a larger unit with more features that stays in my garage.

Features that affect portability include:

• Built-in carrying handles
• Cable management systems
• Protective cases or bumpers
• Wall-mounting options
• Length of power cords and charging cables

One clever feature on newer models is retractable cables, which has eliminated the tangled mess I used to deal with. If you plan to move your charger between vehicles frequently, these small design elements make a significant difference in usability.

Warranty and Reliability: Making a Long-Term Investment

After experiencing a premature failure with my first charger, I pay close attention to warranty terms. Everstart chargers typically come with:

• 90-day to 1-year limited warranties
• Coverage for manufacturing defects
• Exclusions for commercial use or abuse

In my experience, Everstart chargers are generally reliable, but quality can vary by model. The basic units are typically simpler in construction and may have shorter lifespans, while premium models use better components and more sophisticated circuitry.

For reliability, I look for:

• Solid construction with minimal plastic components
• Quality clamps that maintain tension over time
• Heat-dissipating design elements
• Consistent branding and UL certification

My current Everstart has been in service for over four years without issues. Based on conversations with auto mechanics, proper storage (in dry conditions) and avoiding drops or impacts are the keys to maximizing charger lifespan.

Final Thoughts: Is an Everstart Charger Right for You?

After years of using these chargers and helping friends select their own, I’ve developed some guidelines on who benefits most from which type:

For casual drivers with newer vehicles:
A basic Everstart model provides emergency coverage at a reasonable price. You might only use it a few times a year, but it’s invaluable when needed.

For owners of multiple or older vehicles:
A mid-range smart charger with diagnostic features helps you monitor battery health and extend battery life. The additional features justify the higher cost through fewer replacements.

For enthusiasts, collectors, or those in extreme climates:
Premium models with advanced features like temperature compensation, reconditioning modes, and multi-bank charging provide professional-grade performance and versatility.

Personally, I wouldn’t be without my Everstart charger. It’s saved me from emergency roadside assistance calls, helped diagnose electrical issues before they became major problems, and extended the life of every battery in my vehicles.

The peace of mind alone is worth the investment. There’s something deeply satisfying about taking control of your vehicle’s electrical system rather than being at the mercy of unexpected battery failures.

Whether you’re looking for emergency protection or a tool for proper vehicle maintenance, there’s an Everstart model that fits your needs and budget. Just remember: the most important thing to understand about battery chargers is that they’re not just emergency tools—they’re preventative maintenance devices that can significantly extend the life of your expensive batteries.

Do you have an Everstart charger experience to share? I’d love to hear about it in the comments below!