For those among us contemplating storage batteries for radio power in case of an emergency or disaster remember that battery technology has changed, and thus, battery charging has now become a science. The new highly efficient lead acid batteries need more efficient charging techniques. The days of hooking up the cables, pushing the "on" button, and letting the battery charger do it's own unregulated thing are over. With battery technology changing at a very rapid pace, battery-charging methods have also changed. Currently fully automated chargers are available which, at the end of the charge cycle, automatically switch their output voltage to a safe storage or float level. This eliminates the need to constantly check on the condition of the battery. Cost is approximately $60.

Fully automated two-stage battery chargers are also available. These chargers peak battery voltages, then switch to a storage or "float" voltage. If battery voltage drops below the full charge level, these chargers resume charging back to peak voltage. Cost is approximately $40.

Solar charging systems with fixed or adjustable voltage charge controllers are also available. They tend to be pricie, but high-tech pieces. Solar systems have the advantage of recharging your batteries in case of an extended emergency. Search the web on Solar Battery Charging, or try http://www.homepower.com or call 800-338-6844 and ask Nick for a free catalog. Cost is $100 and up, dependent on capacity.

Manual charging, while less desirable, can still be accomplished with the use of a good digital volt meter and a manual slow charger capable of 1 to 2 amp maximum charge rate. The assumption is that your battery is in good condition and thus the procedure would be to charge your battery at rate of 1-2 amps to a maximum of 14.4 volts. Disconnect the charger and monitor battery voltage. Reinitiate the charge cycle when battery voltage falls below 12.6 volts. For those with adjustable chargers, float charge voltage is 13.2. Again, this must be monitored.

Charging above 14.4 volts for extended time or allowing static voltage to drop below 12.6 volts will drastically shorten battery life. This is the problem with manual battery charging, not to speak of the time and regimentation required to monitor the charging and storage cycles.

The listed chargers and voltages are correct for the new lead acid, sealed maintenance-free and gel cell batteries. Older non-sealed lead acid type batteries should be charged to a peak voltage of 14.2. Float and recharge voltages are the same as the new type batteries.