Cordless tools are essential for professionals who need flexibility and portability on job sites. However, keeping their batteries charged can be a challenge, especially when working remotely. Utilizing your vehicle as a charging station with a Car Charger For Cordless Tools can be a convenient solution. But before you plug in, it’s crucial to understand the intricacies involved to avoid damaging your tools or vehicle’s electrical system.
One common approach is to use a power inverter in your vehicle. These devices convert your car’s 12V DC power into AC power, which is required by most standard battery chargers. However, not all inverters are created equal. Many affordable inverters produce a modified square wave, which differs significantly from the true sine wave AC power supplied by the grid. This distinction is critical for modern cordless tool battery chargers. Many of today’s chargers are transformer-less and engineered to operate with a pure sine wave. Using a modified square wave inverter can negatively impact the lifespan and performance of your cordless tool batteries. For optimal charging and to protect your battery investment, a true sine wave inverter is recommended. While they come with a higher price tag, the clean power they deliver is much safer for sensitive electronic devices like battery chargers.
Beyond the inverter type, consider your vehicle’s battery. Continuously drawing power to charge tool batteries can quickly drain your car’s starting battery, potentially leaving you stranded. For frequent charging, a deep cycle battery is a more suitable option. Deep cycle batteries are designed for sustained discharge and recharge cycles, unlike starting batteries which are meant to deliver a high burst of power for starting the engine. Some professionals opt for a dual battery system, incorporating a deep cycle battery dedicated to running accessories like inverters. A battery isolator switch is a valuable addition, allowing you to isolate the deep cycle battery from your car’s main battery, ensuring you always have enough power to start your vehicle. You could choose to charge from just the deep cycle battery, or in parallel with your car battery and alternator when the engine is running.
While inverters offer a versatile solution, simpler options exist. Consider looking for 12V car chargers specifically designed for your cordless tool batteries. These chargers plug directly into your vehicle’s 12V outlet, eliminating the need for an inverter and ensuring compatibility. Alternatively, if a power source is occasionally accessible, a standard extension cord to a power strip in your van might be the most straightforward solution for charging multiple batteries simultaneously, as suggested by some professionals. Gas-powered generators are another option for mobile power, but they introduce noise and fuel costs, which might outweigh the convenience compared to a vehicle-based charging system.
In conclusion, utilizing a car charger for cordless tools offers a practical way to maintain power on the go. Choosing the right equipment, particularly a true sine wave inverter and potentially a deep cycle battery, is essential for efficient and safe charging. Exploring dedicated 12V chargers or even simple extension cords can provide alternative solutions depending on your specific needs and work environment. By carefully considering these factors, you can effectively turn your vehicle into a mobile power station, keeping your cordless tools ready for any job.
