Currently viewing: Optima Battery Charger - which is best? Information about the two types of Optima batteries and their charging and care.

Optima Batteries are definitely special and different. They are maintenance free, but that doesn't mean they do not need charging. Nor does it mean that they cannot benefit greatly with our Battery Life Saver™ desulfator.

But before you go out and buy a charger for your Optima battery please read the following.

When charged properly you will not have to worry about corrosion or leaking.

You should periodically inspect your connections to ensure they are clean, on tight, and protected from the elements.

The following Optima batteries should be charged to 12.8 volts: 34 / 34R / 34/78 / 6V / 34M / 75/35.

The following should be charged to 13.0 volts: D34 / D34/78 / D6V / D34M.

These voltages should give a fully charged battery.

If you plan to store you Optima battery for longer periods consider the BatteryMinder package with the appropriate Battery Life Saver.

Two types of applications and how they are charged.

There are batteries designed for engine starting applications: 34 / 34R / 34/78 / 6V / 34M / 35/75.

These batteries should be charged at 10 amps maximum and should be charged within 8 hours. Thus the Vector Battery Charger is a perfect choice because it will charge smoothly and quickly and can be set to charge at 10 amps max.

All of the Vector Chargers that we carry could be used for these batteries. Just be sure to put them on a 6 or 10 amp voltage, depending on the model.

Then there are the Optima Batteries designed for use in deep cycle applications: D34 / D34/78 / D6V / D34M.

Vector Battery Charger - the right choice

These batteries should NOT be overcharged. The Vector Smart charger does shut off automatically, again making it the right choice.

Not charging a battery to capacity results in poor performance. So the Vector Chargers do the job correctly.