Having a dead battery is one of the most frustrating things that can happen to a driver. You are ready to go, but your car will not start. The good folk over at Clore Automotive explain that a battery jump starter is a portable power source that can revive your dead battery and get you back on the road quickly.
These self-contained units have a rechargeable battery pack and a pair of heavy-duty cables that connect to your vehicle’s battery terminals. With the push of a button, the jump starter delivers a boost of power to your dead battery, providing enough juice to crank the engine.
While all jump starters perform this same basic function, they vary in size, power capabilities, and extra features. Choosing the right one for your vehicle ensures you have enough starting power when you need it most.
Consider Your Vehicle’s Battery
The most important factor when it comes to selecting a jump starter is to ensure that it has enough power to restart your specific vehicle’s battery. Larger engines and battery sizes require more cranking amps to turn over.
Most jump starters list their peak amp output as well as the range of battery sizes they can start, like “700 peak amps for batteries up to 6.5L gas or 5.2L diesel engines”. Check your vehicle’s battery specifications and choose a jump starter rated for at least your battery’s cold cranking amp (CCA) requirements.
Size and Weight
Larger, higher output jump starters tend to be bigger and heavier since they need larger internal battery packs. This makes them less portable but able to start bigger truck and commercial vehicle batteries.
For basic compact and mid-size cars, a smaller 500-700 peak amp jump starter in the 10–18-pound range is very portable to keep in your trunk. If you drive a heavy-duty pickup or SUV, look for a larger 1000+ peak amp unit, though be aware that these can weigh 30 pounds or more.
Jump Starts Per Charge
Another key specification is the number of jump starts the unit can deliver per charge. Smaller jump starters may only have enough power for 2-3 jump starts before needing to recharge, while larger models can provide 10+ jump starts.
If you only need a jump starter for occasional personal use, having 2-3 chances to start your vehicle is probably sufficient. But for commercial use or long road trips, you will likely want the extra capacity of 5-10 jump starts per charge.
Safety Features
Always check for built-in safety features to protect against reverse polarity connections, short circuits, overcharging, and overheating. Automatic voltage sensing helps the jump starter safely adapt its output to differing battery sizes.
Heavy-duty insulated cables, reinforced clamps or connections, and external housing made of durable materials all add protection during use. An integrated LED flashlight can provide visibility for connecting cables.
Extra Capabilities
While jump starters are designed primarily for reviving dead batteries, many units now include additional functions like:
- USB ports for charging phones, tablets, or other devices.
- Air compressors for inflating tires.
- Inverters for powering small electronics or appliances.
- LED area lights for emergency lighting.
These extras add versatility if you want an all-in-one portable power solution beyond just jump-starting capabilities.
Conclusion
Choosing the right battery jump starter means picking one with enough power for your vehicle’s battery size while considering portability needs and any desired extra features. With the proper jump starter on hand, you will never be left stranded by a dead battery again. A little preparation goes a long way towards peace of mind on the road.
