The small book-sized units are great for starting engines, but they can't actually charge a battery. They hold a relatively small amount of charge, but they can dump it all out fast to help a not-dead-yet battery start the car.
Update on that old (2018) battery, I put it in my van after my old AGM died (build date 2016). That 2018 battery is working like a champ even in the cold we are having here, 16 degrees this morningAs I recall, the life of a battery is mostly determined by the discharge/charge cycles it goes through, along with how well you maintain it.
"Age and Usage Patterns
The age and usage patterns of a lead-acid battery can also impact its lifespan. The lifespan of a lead-acid battery is typically measured in cycles, which refers to one complete charge and discharge cycle.
The number of cycles a battery can endure depends on its quality, usage patterns, and maintenance. According to the search results, the average guaranteed lifespan of a basic lead-acid battery is around 1,500 cycles.
However, poor management, no monitoring, and a lack of both proactive and reactive maintenance can kill a battery in less than 18 months. With proper maintenance, a lead-acid battery can last between 5 to 15 years."
How Long Should a Sealed Lead Acid Battery Hold a Charge? - Battery Skills
Discover how long a Sealed Lead Acid battery should hold a charge, factors affecting battery life, and tips to maintain optimal performance.www.batteryskills.com
I recently acquired an old battery, never really used, but it sat discharged for a few years, the build date was in 2018! I put it on a battery recondition cycle a few times( says it gets rid of sulfation) and it now is holding a charge. One of these days, I will put it in my van to see if it will perform well or it is just a surface charge.
Most of the old-fashioned big ones will just keep on trying to charge after the battery is full. As this can boil off electrolyte, they generally should not be left connected continuously.
I’m liking oriley more to. Seem to have really good folks working there. But Autozone has more where I am. I’m very glad they helped you sir
I had never been in an O'reilly's Auto until recently when I couldn't find the battery size I needed. O'reilly's had it in stock. With free installation
NAPA is only kind of a chain; some are company-owned, but most are independent shops that are part of the larger buying cooperative.
I thought NAPA was more expensive for common retail stuff, unless you have a commercial account. ???
Probably depends on the shop.
Most of the rolling ones are "smart" electronically controlled ones. I had to look hard for my dumb one. It has the knob for the couple 12v or single 6v range & another knob that is the mechanical timer. You have to calculate how long it will run before it starts boiling the battery. For that reason I use one of my 2 smart chargers or couple of trickle maintainers for most stuff. The big unit gets used for starting stuff right now (which my 70@ smart charger usually did fine after a minute or 3) or for electronics projects like testing a starter or running a 12v motor or something. I can't be bothered to calculate the timer stuff properly.
www.menards.com
Pro-rated? Or full replacement?
Always nice to be pleased when you get somewhat of a good deal. I think keep everything clean and add a little charge during off seasons and you will be surprised how long it works for you.
