Best Choice

Sunway Solar Battery Charger and Maintainer

  • Trickle charging
  • Easy to install and use
  • Durable ABS plastic build
Best Value

Nature Power Solar Battery Maintainer

  • Built-in barrier diode
  • Weather-resistant
  • Car adapter included in the set
Premium

Schumacher SP-1500 Solar Battery Charger and Maintainer

  • Amorphous Solar Technology
  • Lead-acid battery
  • Water-resistant

If you have a solar battery maintainer or charger already, then it may have helped keep your batteries topped up. The solar battery maintainers in this review represent a unique range of brands and features. However, based on reviews, we recommend the Sunway Solar Battery Charger and Maintainer. This device delivers just the right power for maintaining a full charge on your battery. Moreover, the splash-proof design, combined with the ABS plastic, makes this device durable, reliable, and weatherproof.

Well, that is its job!

They can be a valuable investment, but given the many misleading and often exaggerated advertisements in the market, people generally overlook its value and find it tasking to find the perfect choice.

You get different features with different battery maintainers, and to make your life easier, we have rounded up the 10 best solar maintainers in 2022 on the market.

Don’t worry, we’ve gone out and included a detailed buyer’s guide, so let’s begin with the review.

Our Topic Picks

Table of Contents

Sunway Solar Battery Charger and Maintainer

The solar battery maintainers in this review represent a unique range of brands and features. However, based on reviews, we recommend the Sunway Solar Battery Charger and Maintainer. This device delivers just the right power for maintaining a full charge on your battery. Moreover, the splash-proof design, combined with the ABS plastic, makes this device durable, reliable, and weatherproof.

Quick Summary of 10 Best Solar Battery Maintainers in 2022

ImageProductFeaturesPrice
Sunway Solar Car Battery Trickle Charger & Maintainer
Sunway Solar Car Battery Trickle Charger & Maintainer

Top-up your battery charge with the splash-proof solar battery maintainer. This battery has a built-in diode and an LED charge indicator.

POWOXI Solar Battery Charger and Maintainer
POWOXI Solar Battery Charger and Maintainer

It is a CE and ROHS product that is easy to install and operate. The built-in barrier diode, color stabilization, and UV inhibitors make this product long-lasting and one of the best maintainers on the market.

Battery Tender 021-1163 Solar Maintainer with Smart Charging Controller
Battery Tender Solar Maintainer with Smart Charging Controller

It features reverse polarity protection, spark-proof built, and temperature compensation sensor for efficient charging of your battery, giving you a super-smart charging experience.

ALLPOWERS Solar Trickle Battery Maintainer
ALLPOWERS Solar Trickle Battery Maintainer

Charge your battery wherever and whenever with the ultra-light, water-resistant, and heat dissipated AllPowers Solar Maintainer.

Schumacher SP-200 Solar Battery Maintainer
Schumacher SP-200 Solar Battery Maintainer

The eco-friendly amorphous solar technology makes sure to store enough energy in your battery. It is water-resistant and features a lead-acid battery to trickle charge your device. This feature lengthens battery life by minimizing the drainage.

Schumacher SP-400 Solar Battery Charger and Maintainer
Schumacher SP-400 Solar Battery Charger and Maintainer

Amorphous solar technology, 12V lead-acid battery, water resistance, and durability make this device a decent solar maintainer on the market.

Nature Power Solar Battery Maintainer
Nature Power Solar Battery Maintainer

Nature Power is an affordable and cost-effective device that is capable of maintaining the full charge in your battery. It has a built-in diode that prevents back discharge from your battery.

Sunforce 52013 Solar Battery Maintainer
Sunforce 52013 Solar Battery Maintainer

The Sunforce 52013 is a durable solar battery maintainer that has an ABS plastic shell with an amorphous solar that helps it overcome cloudy weather conditions as well as a blocking diode that prevents reverse charging.

Sunforce 50012 Solara Battery Maintainer
Sunforce 50012 Solar Battery Maintainer

The Sunforce 50012 Solar is a practical and durable maintaining unit with a flexible working temperature range that works well in cloudy weather and prevents reverse charging, extending the battery life.

Schumacher SP-1500 Solar Battery Charger and Maintainer
Schumacher SP-1500 Solar Battery Charger and Maintainer

Environment-friendly and water-resistant, this is a useful device that gives you optimal performance with its amorphous solar technology.

Best Solar Battery Maintainer in 2022 – Reviewed

1. Sunway Solar Car Battery Trickle Charger & Maintainer

The Sunway Solar Charger and Maintainer uses solar power to top up your battery charge. The splash-proof design with a durable ABS plastic build makes the Sunway a suitable device for maintaining any solar equipment.

  • Trickle charging
  • Easy to install and use
  • Durable ABS plastic build
  • A built-in diode to prevent reverse charging
  • LED charge indicator
Product Specifications
Dimensions:13.9 x 0.5 x 5 inches
Weight:1.46 pounds
Power:4 watts
Battery Voltage:12 Volts

The Sunway maintainer is an ABS plastic made device covered with an ultra-clear PV glass for durability and protection. The cigarette lighter adapter and alligator clamps make the installation process easy and quick. The built-in diode, splash-proof technology, compact, lightweight design are added features in Sunway. 

Built-in Diode

Like the AllPower solar maintainer, the Sunway also has a built-in diode to restrict charge backflow and reverse charging from batteries; this maintains a full charge in your battery and extends its lifespan.

Durable Design

The Sunway solar maintainer has a sustainable ABS plastic housing, covered with ultra-clear PV glass that protects the device from corrosive substances like dust particles.

LED Charge Indicator

The device has a blinking 12 volt LED charge indicator embedded below the panel. This blue LED stays on without blinking to act as a notification when your battery fully charges. It is quite a useful feature. 

Easy to Install

The suction cups help the panel to mount easily on any solar device, windshield, or dashboard. Furthermore, the cigarette lighter adapter and alligator battery terminal clamps are the added features that ease the installation process. 

Warranty

The device is useful and has a sturdy build. The Sunway solar battery maintainer has an extended 12-month warranty for increased user convenience backed-up by a powerful charging experience with more extended durability. 

Our Verdict

The Sunway solar battery maintainer is one of the best devices to maintain and charge your battery. Its portable, compact, and durable design will serve efficiently, making this solar maintainer a great value-for-money product that you should get your hands on.

9.5
Our Score

Pros

  • Quick and easy installation
  • Splashing proof design
  • Compact, lightweight, and durable design
  • Crystalline solar panel for higher efficiency
  • Maintenance-free
  • Blue LED light indicator
  • 12-month warranty

Cons

  • Not suitable during rainy weather conditions
  • The cigarette lighter may not operate when the ignition is turned off in some vehicles.

2. POWOXI Solar Battery Charger and Maintainer

Enjoy powerful battery charging even in cloudy weather conditions with this ultra-convenient POWOXI solar battery charger and maintainer.

  • Built-in Barrier Diode
  • CE and ROHS Certified
  • UV Protection
  • Easy Installation
Product Specifications
Dimensions:14 x 8.5 x 0.8 inches
Weight:2.2 pounds
Power:3.3 Watt
Battery Voltage:12 Volt

POWOXI Solar Battery Maintainer is a CE and ROHS certified product that features an amorphous solar panel complete with waterproofing, color stabilizers, and UV inhibitors that make it one of the best maintainers on the market. Added to that, its 12-month warranty, an easy installation process, and a built-in diode that adds to its beneficial features. 

Let’s break down some of the features of this battery maintaining unit:

Built-in Barrier Diode

This waterproof product has a built-in barrier diode that prevents the battery from back discharge so that the battery stays fully charged and makes it great for both indoor and outdoor use.

Fade Resistant and UV Inhibitors

The color stabilization and UV inhibitors protect it from harmful rays, and its durability allows a long product life and keeps your battery alive too. 

Amorphous Solar Panel

The device is an ultra-convenient amorphous solar technology and can also charge in cloudy weather conditions, making it great for predominantly rainy regions. 

Durable and Easy to Install

The device has a firm, durable ABS plastic casing and comes with a 12-month warranty. The alligator clip and suction tray available in the set make it easy to install on a windshield, solar devices, or connect it to a battery.

Our Verdict

Given that it overcomes the weather barriers of many solar devices, this portable, lightweight device might even exceed expectations. Besides needing to buy a charging controller separately, the durability and performance of this solar battery maintainer should bring this to your purchase list.

9
Our Score

Pros

  • Color stabilization and UV inhibitors
  • CE and ROHS certified product
  • Back discharge prevention
  • Durable and Waterproof

Cons

  • No charge profile controller

3. Battery Tender 021-1163 Solar Maintainer with Smart Charging Controller

Reverse polarity protection, waterproof, spark-proof, built-in temperature compensation sensor, and CE certification make the Battery Tender Solar Maintainer a decent option for super-smart charging.

  • Three-step microcontroller for smart charging
  • Weatherproof
  • CE certified
  • Easy installation
Product Specifications
Dimensions:17.8 x 17.8 x 3 inches
Weight:2.5 pounds
Power:5 Watt
Battery Voltage:12 Volt

Battery Tender 021-1163 is a waterproof and spark-proof solar battery maintainer with an integrated solar panel. The three-step microcontroller smartly charges your device without the risk of damage by overcharging. It has reverse polarity protection and a built-in temperature compensation sensor for protection against all weather conditions. 

Safety

The Battery Tender solar battery maintainer has a three-step microcontroller for super-smart charging. The microcontroller prevents damage by overcharging. It is waterproof as well as spark-proof. Further safety features in this maintainer include reverse polarity protection and a built-in temperature compensation sensor. 

Weatherproof 

This battery maintainer has a waterproof build and an epoxy covered microcontroller that makes the unit resistant against any weather conditions. The solar glass panel will operate between the temperature range from minus 20 degrees Fahrenheit to 120 degrees Fahrenheit. 

CE Certified

It is a CE certified solar battery maintainer with proven durability and effectiveness to lengthen the battery life. 

Easy to Install

This battery tender is a portable device with alligator clips and mounting hardware. This clip allows connecting the maintainer to a solar panel or other solar equipment.

Our Verdict

With a weather guard that helps it function in low sunlight hours and weathers, the Battery Tender 021-1163 Solar Maintainer should make its place in your list. However, you may find an issue with the amber charging LED indicator, in which case be sure to seek technical support.

9
Our Score

Pros

  • CE approved and certified
  • Epoxy filled controller for protection against all weather conditions
  • Waterproof and spark-proof
  • Reverse Polarity Protection
  • Built-in temperature compensation sensor

Cons

  • An issue with amber LED indicator

 4. ALLPOWERS Solar Trickle Battery Maintainer

With the ultra-light, water-resistant, and heat dissipated AllPowers Solar Battery Maintainer, charge your battery wherever and whenever.

  • ABS plastic casing
  • Built-in blocking diode
  • 23.5% more efficient than most monocrystalline panels
  • Durable
  • Easy to install
  • Weather Resistant
Product Specifications
Dimensions:16.7 x 11.2 x 1.2 inches
Weight:1.75 pounds
Power:18 Watt
Battery Voltage:12 Volt

The All Power solar battery maintainer is a durable and ultra-light unit with an 18 months warranty. Its built-in blocking diode prevents reverse discharge and extends battery life, and is easy to install and maintenance-free.

Built-in Blocking Diode

The maintainer features a built-in blocking diode to prevent backflow and reverse discharge; this not only lengthens battery life but also extends its usage life. 

Durable Design

The unit has a durable ABS plastic body that makes the unit sturdy and flexible. Furthermore, the device comes with an 18-month warranty.

 Easy to Install 

This battery maintainer includes a cigarette lighter plug, clip line, and suction cups to make the installation process quick and easy. The set also includes an instruction manual if you have a problem installing the device. Moreover, you can expect no maintenance cost at all.

Weather-Resistant

The AllPower maintainer works effectively in all daylight conditions as well as cloudy weather. It can resist raindrops; however, it is not entirely waterproof.

Our Verdict

All Power Solar Battery Charger and Maintainer is an efficient next-generation device for any 12-volt batteries. It saves energy, reduces your bills, and increases battery life. You couldn’t look for reasons not to choose this device.

8.5
Our Score

Pros

  • Backed by 18 months of warranty
  • Easy to install
  • Durable ABS Plastic build
  • Maintenance-free

Cons

  • Short cable

5. Schumacher SP-200 Solar Battery Maintainer

Extend the battery life with the Schumacher SP-200. Its eco-friendly amorphous solar technology harnesses the power of the sun and stores the energy in your battery.

  • Amorphous Solar Technology
  • Lead-acid battery
  • Water-resistant
Product Specifications
Dimensions:11 x 2 x 20 inches
Weight:2.4 pounds
Power:2.4 Watt
Battery Voltage:12 Volt

The Schumacher SP-200 is a water-resistant solar battery that features amorphous solar technology. It is safe, environment-friendly, and works efficiently in rainy or cloudy weather as well.

Amorphous Solar Technology

With its amorphous solar panel, the device works efficiently, even in cloudy and rainy regions.

Best Batteries 

The solar battery maintainer uses a lead-acid battery to store charge. This 12V battery maintainer releases consistent charge to your battery and extends battery life. 

Water-Resistant

This solar battery maintainer is water-resistant and performs effectively during rainy conditions. The panel trickle charges the battery to maintain a full charge for a longer time.

Our Verdict

The Schumacher SP-200 is a useful solar battery maintainer that trickle charges any 12V battery and effectively charges your batteries without electricity and gives you an excellent all-weather performance.

8.5
Our Score

Pros

  • Fully Water Resistant
  • Lead Acid Battery
  • Fit for all-weather conditions

Cons

  • Poor cord quality

6.  Schumacher SP-400 Solar Battery Charger and Maintainer

Extend your battery life with the Schumacher SP-400 solar battery charger and maintainer. The amorphous solar technology and water-resistant panel makes it suitable for any solar device.

  • Amorphous Solar Technology
  • Lead-acid battery
  • Water-resistant
Product Specifications
Dimensions:14.4 x 13.6 x 0.5 inches
Weight:3.96 pounds
Power:4.8 Watt
Battery Voltage:12 Volt

The Schumacher SP-400 is an eco-friendly and budget-friendly solar battery maintainer equipped with modern amorphous technology with an easy installation process.

 Amorphous Solar Technology<

The Schumacher SP-400 is an eco-friendly water-resistant solar battery maintainer. The panel uses modern amorphous solar technology to enable the device to work even in cloudy weather conditions. The device is easy to install and is budget-friendly.

Best Batteries 

The solar battery maintainer uses a lead-acid battery to store charge. This 12V battery releases consistent charge to your battery so that its operating life is longer than average.

Water-Resistant

The Schumacher SP-400 is a water-resistant solar battery maintainer giving it full effectivity during rainy conditions as it trickle-charges the battery to maintain a full charge for an extended period.

Easy to Install

The clamp adapter and mounting screws enable any novice to install the device easily. It takes just a few minutes to install and use the unit. If you have any problems while installing the device, the owner’s manual will help you along.

Our Verdict

The Schumacher SP-400 Solar Battery Charger and Maintainer is ideal for boats, cars, motorcycles, and more and is a convenient unit for both indoor and outdoor batteries. Requiring minimal maintenance, this solar maintainer is environmentally safe and effectively extends your battery life. While you might face issues with the cord, you should purchase a charge controller for extra overcharge protection.

8
Our Score

Pros

  • Fully water-resistant
  • Lead-acid battery
  • Easy to use and install
  • Amorphous solar technology

Cons

  • Poor cord quality
  • Lack of controller

7. Nature Power Solar Battery Maintainer

If you are looking for a cost-effective, affordable, and weather-resistant solar maintainer, the Nature Power Solar Battery Maintainer is the one for you.

  • Built-in barrier diode
  • Weather-resistant
  • Car adapter included in the set
  • Affordable
  • Easy to install
Product Specifications
Dimensions:14.4 x 4.5 x 1.5 inches
Weight:1.5 pounds
Power:1.5 Watt
Battery Voltage:12 Volt

Nature Power is an affordable and cost-effective device that is capable of maintaining the full charge in your battery. It has a built-in diode that prevents back discharge from your battery, thus making it last longer. 

Built-In Barrier Diode

The device removes the possibility of charge backflow from your battery; this helps to maintain a constant charge in your battery while also prolonging its operating time. 

Weather Resistant 

Nature Power is a full weather-resistant solar maintainer; this means that it will perform excellently in various weather conditions such as cloudy or rainy. It is a portable device and is suitable for outdoor use as well, preferably on your car’s windscreen or dashboard. 

Affordable

Nature Power delivers optimum performance in charging and maintaining your battery. Moreover, its affordable price and cost-effectiveness are added charms for many users.

Our Verdict

Nature Power is an excellent solar battery maintainer at an affordable budget. What you’ll love about it is how easy it is to install. Even if the weak plastic casing and a low wattage are an issue, this unit is easy to use for anyone, especially with vehicles.

7.5
Our Score

Pros

  • Fully weather-resistant
  • Affordable and cost-effective
  • Eco-friendly technology

Cons

  • Not a CE certified product
  • Weak plastic frame
  • Low wattage to maintain a decent level of charge

8. Sunforce 52013 Solar Battery Maintainer

This solar battery maintainer is an easy-to-install maintenance-free unit that includes twin maintainers. These twin maintainers make the Sunforce 52013 ideal for cars, boats, and more.

  • Easy DIY installation
  • Fully weatherproof design
  • Amorphous Solar Technology
  • Built-in Blocking Diode
  • Wide working temperature range
Product Specifications
Dimensions:20 x 7 x 4 inches
Weight:3 pounds
Power:1.8 Watt
Battery Voltage:12 Volt

The Sunforce 52013 is a durable solar battery maintainer made from ABS plastic. Its amorphous solar panel charges even in cloudy weather conditions. The blocking diode prevents reverse charging while the working temperature ranges from minus 40 degrees Fahrenheit to 170 degrees Fahrenheit making the unit suitable for outdoor use as well. 

Amorphous Solar Technology

Like other solar maintainers on our list, the Sunforce 52013 also boasts Amorphous Solar Technology which makes it operable even cloudy weather conditions.

Built-in Blocking Diode

The built-in blocking diode helps to prolong battery life and operable time. 

Durable Design

Sunforce 52013 has an ABS plastic build, which makes the device durable as well as fully weatherproof.    

Easy to Install

The suction cup allows easy mounting on your windscreen. The alligator clamps and DC plug help to attach the maintainer on to any 12 Volt solar device. 

Our Verdict

Boasting a weather-proof and durable build, the twin maintainers effectively charge your batteries as well as extend its operable time and lifespan. Despite being water-repellant, it is not fully water-resistant, so you might have to be careful while using it.

7.5
Our Score

Pros

  • Full weather-proof design
  • Easy to install and use
  • Prevents reverse charging
  • Durable and long-lasting build

Cons

  • Low-efficiency suction cups

9. Sunforce 50012 Solar Battery Maintainer

Bid farewell to the battery drainage issue with the 1.8 Watt Sunforce solar battery maintainer. Get it, install it, enjoy it.

  • Suction cups and Alligator clips for easy installation
  • Fully Weatherproof built
  • Built-in blocking diode
  • Durable ABS plastic casing.
Product Specification
Dimensions:4.9 x 0.5 x 13.9 inches
Weight:1.35 pounds
Power:1.8 Watt
Battery Voltage:12 Volt

The durable ABS plastic casing, amorphous solar panel, built-in diode, and a wide working-temperature range make the Sunforce 50012 an effective maintainer system. Moreover, its weatherproof design makes the device suitable to use any time of the day.

Amorphous Solar Technology

The Amorphous Solar Technology in this maintainer makes it useful and operable even in cloudy and rainy weather conditions.

Built-in Blocking Diode

The built-in blocking diode helps to prolong battery life and operable time.  

Durable Design

The Sunforce 52013 gets its durability from its ABS plastic build and makes its a weather-proof unit.

Easy to Install

While the suction cups allow easy mounting on windscreens, the alligator clamps, and DC plug help to attach the maintainer on to any 12 Volt solar device.

Wide Working Temperature Range

The Sunforce 50012 can work well in any temperature ranging from minus 40 degrees to 176 degrees Fahrenheit; this makes the device competent in charging your batteries anytime and anywhere. 

Our Verdict

The Sunforce 50012 is a fair quality maintainer that charges and maintains your battery. However, the reverse polarity design flaw makes the device problematic and can drain your battery instead of charging it. Since this information is not available in the instruction manual, you will need to find an alternative solution.

7
Our Score

Pros

  • Varying operating temperature range
  • Easy installation and use
  • Prevents reverse charging
  • High durability

Cons

  • A flaw in reverse polarity design
  • The frame may get very hot in the direct sun

10. Schumacher SP-1500 Solar Battery Charger and Maintainer

The Schumacher SP-1500 will serve your charging needs anywhere, anytime, with its innovative and water-resistant solar technology.

Product Specification
Dimensions:36.4 x 12.4 x 0.9 inches
Weight:16 pounds
Power:15 Watt
Battery Voltage:12 Volt

Like any Schumacher solar battery maintainers, the SP- 1500 is also an eco-friendly water-resistant unit. The panel uses modern amorphous solar technology to capacitate the device to function even in cloudy or shady weather conditions.

Amorphous Solar Technology

The solar panel in the Schumacher SP- 1500 also uses amorphous solar technology like in the SP- 200 and SP- 400 models so that it can work in cloudy conditions.

Best Batteries

The Schumacher SP- 1500 is a water-resistant solar battery maintainer that works effectively even in rainy weather conditions. Its panel trickle charges the battery to maintain a full charge for a longer time. 

Water-Resistant

The water softener shower head has a flow rate of 2 gallons per minute and delivers 80 PSI of water pressureThis makes it ideal for taking long showers without any significant pressure drop and minimizing water wastage.

Easy to Install

The clamp adapter and mounting screws enable any novice to install the device easily. It takes only a few minutes to install and use the unit.

Our Verdict

The Schumacher SP- 1500 is an excellent performing solar battery maintainer. However, it is more expensive than the SP- 200 and SP- 400 models despite all the Schumacher models performing the same. The only difference is that the SP- 1500 delivers more power than the other two models.

6.5
Our Score

Pros

  • Fully water-resistant
  • Lead-acid battery
  • Easy to use and install
  • Amorphous solar technology

Cons

  • The trouble with the reverse internal polarity
  • Lack of controller

Comparison Table for Best Solar Battery Maintainer

SNSolar Battery MaintainerDimensions (inches)Weight (Pounds)Power (Watt)Battery Voltage (Volt)
1POWOXI Solar Battery Charger and Maintainer14 x 8.5 x 0.82.23.312
2Battery Tender Solar Maintainer with Smart Charging Controller17.8 x 17.8 x 32.5512
3ALLPOWERS Solar Trickle Battery Maintainer16.7 x 11.2 x 1.21.751812
4Schumacher SP-200 Solar Battery Maintainer11 x 2 x 202.42.412
5Sunway Solar Car Battery Trickle Charger & Maintainer13.9 x 0.5 x 51.46412
6Schumacher SP-400 Solar Battery Charger and Maintainer14.4 x 13.6 x 0.53.964.812
7Nature Power Solar Battery Maintainer14.5 x 4.5 x 1.51.51.512
8Sunforce 52013 Solar Battery Maintainer20 x 7 x 431.812
9Sunforce 50012 Solar Battery Maintainer4.9 x 0.5 x 13.91.351.812
10Schumacher SP-1500 Solar Battery Charger and Maintainer36.4 x 12.4 x 0.9161512

Benefits of Solar Battery Maintainers

Solar Battery Maintainers have been around for many years, but very few are aware of its utilities. They view these units as an additional investment. However, the truth is different. There are many benefits of having a solar battery maintainer. We have mentioned the main ones below: 

Fully Charged Battery

In many cases, the battery shows the surface charge to indicate a full charge while it is not actually, which usually happens when you use a high current or boost charge the batteries. Solar Battery Maintainer trickle charges your battery by releasing a small and consistent amount of current. Such charging may take a bit more time, but it will ensure that the battery fully charges.

Optimal Performance

A battery delivers optimal performance if the charge is at an optimum level. You can use the solar unit even if it drains up to 50%. Using a solar battery maintainer ensures the charge never drops below the minimum level; this maintains optimal performance and also extends the battery’s lifespan. 

Peace of Mind 

Battery Maintainer charges the battery when it is running low and maintains a floating status on a full charge. It regulates the charge of the battery even when you are not around to keep track of it. 

Ultimate Buyer’s Guide – Solar Battery Maintainer

Steps of Battery Charging and Maintenance

Solar Battery Maintainer charges and maintains battery charge on eight steps mentioned below: 

  • Desulphation – It reconditions batteries that have lost power due to long-time non-use.
  • Soft Start – Charging of the battery until the terminal voltage rises to a preset level.
  • Bulk – The primary charging step charges the battery below full charge. 
  • Absorption – This final charging state keeps battery voltage at a preset level. 
  • Analysis – It suspends the charging phase and measures the voltage.
  • Recondition – Maintainer feeds a constant current to the battery to ensure maximum voltage.
  • Float – Maintains a constant voltage level of the battery.
  • Pulse/Maintenance – Sends a pulse of electricity to the battery when the charge falls below a preset limit, so the battery retains its condition for longer life.

 

Things To Consider When Buying A Solar Battery Maintainer

Now that we have mentioned the benefits of a solar battery maintainer, you might want to know about the things you must consider when you pick one for your house:

Automatic

Manual settings are challenging to maintain and can be operated only by professionals, so make sure that the maintainer you purchase has an automatic setting. An automatic maintainer charges your battery in fast mode, and then it switches to the top-off mode that slowly brings the battery up to its maximum level. Finally, this setting enables the maintenance mode that keeps your battery at full capacity for an extended time. 

Charge controller

All solar panels need a charge controller between its panel and the battery to prevent overcharging. Some solar panels have built-in charge controllers for battery charging and maintenance. If the unit does not have one, you can buy a kit that includes both the solar charge controller and solar panel.  

Deep-cycle battery maintenance

You must purchase deep-cycle battery maintenance for your solar battery maintainer. It can induce the Equalization and Desulphation phase. This property of the Deep cycle battery maintenance helps to prolong the battery life of your audio equipment, motorized scooter, RV, or even floor sweeper. 

Load Testing

Whenever you have a battery-related issue, it may not be immediately apparent whether the battery is faulty or if it is a problem with the charging system. Choosing a solar battery maintainer with a Load Testing capability helps to identify whether there is an issue with the battery or the charging system.

Mounting

Make sure the maintainer you choose has complete flexibility in angle and azimuth, which allows the solar panel to move automatically in the direction of the sun to produce the most power. 

Single-frequency vs. multiple frequencies

Single-frequency maintainer removes only the newly formed sulfate deposits from the solar panels but fails to recover a heavily sulfated battery. Only a multiple frequency maintainer can remove both old and newly formed sulfate crystals in the shortest time possible. 

Start Assist

This feature in a solar battery maintainer helps you to utilize the dead batteries even if the power has dropped below the starting threshold. 

Spark proof

Spark proof is the connection in a maintainer designed not to produce a current unless it detects a proper connection. Such a smart feature prevents sparks when you connect a charger, thus avoiding fumes and explosions.

Warranty

A solar cell is not a perfect unit, and it might come with one or more damaged cells. To avoid the hassle of replacing the panel frequently, we recommend you pick the solar battery maintainer with the most extended warranty available. 

Waterproof and weatherproof

Solar battery maintainers also need to be robust enough to withstand the harsh off-grid environment such as rain, heat, dirt, and dust. So pick the one that is portable, tough, and IP65-rated for water, dust, and impact resistant.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a solar battery maintainer ?

It is a device that induces optimal battery performance. A solar battery maintainer prevents batteries from overcharging and complete discharge. It also improves the charge quality giving you the liberty to run your devices at any time.

How do solar maintainers work ?

A solar battery maintainer, like any other solar device, converts the energy from the sun into electricity. Then it supplies the necessary power to the batteries, and if fully charged, cuts off the power to prevent damages due to overcharging.

Do I need to put the solar battery maintainer under direct sunlight ?

Given that solar devices work best during day-time, you don’t necessarily have to put the units under direct sunlight. Unlike low-quality panels, high-quality panels will overcome weather conditions and work well even in cloudy, humid conditions.

Closing Words

Investing in a solar battery maintainer is a smart and easy way to solve your battery-related issues. Before you purchase one, make sure to check its details and features, and refer to the buyer’s guide.

Don’t forget to check for any extra costs before you plan to make a purchase. This guide to the 10 best solar battery maintainers will also act as your guide, now that you know that getting yourself such decent technological units is a smart choice in itself.

(Last Updated on June 30, 2022 by Sadrish Dabadi)

Nina Howell is a Rewenable Energy researcher and consultant based out of Houston, Texas Area. She earned her Master's Degree in Energy and Earth Resources from Austin Jackson School of Geosciences in 2010, and a Bachelor's Degree in Environmental Science from State University of New York College of Environmental Science and Forestry in 2008. Nina has been working in the energy sector since 2011. She worked as an Energy Supply Analyst from 2011 to 2017 in Bounce Energy and then as a Research and Energy Consultant at GE Renewable Energy from March 2017 to February 2020 . Nina is a mom of 2 beautiful children who are joy to her life. She strongly believes in eco-friendly living and is vocal about renewable energy, environmental issues, water crisis, and sustainable living.