Pros and cons of a battery tender for winterizing lawn and garden equipment

Last Updated on: 20th January 2024, 05:17 pm

Read the main advantages and drawbacks of investing in a battery tender.

When it comes time to winterize small gas engine equipment like lawn mowers or garden tillers, one of the topics that often comes up is using a battery tender. Understanding the pros and cons of using a battery tender during the colder months can help you decide on the best way to care for your equipment.

Read on to learn if this approach might fit your needs well.

Pros of Using a Battery Tender

1. Extended Battery Life: One of the primary benefits of using one is the extension of your battery’s lifespan. By maintaining an optimal charge level, the battery tender keeps the battery from depleting entirely, which can prolong its overall life.
2. Prevention of Freezing: Batteries in small gas engine equipment are susceptible to freezing in extremely cold temperatures, especially if they are not fully charged. A battery tender maintains the charge, reducing the risk of freezing and potential battery damage.
3. Cost Savings: In the long run, this approach can be cost-effective. It can save you from the expense of replacing a battery that has become unusable due to neglect during the winter months.
4. Convenience: A battery tender offers a ‘set it and forget it.’ convenience. Once connected, it requires minimal monitoring, as it automatically maintains the battery at the correct charge level. In the spring, your machine should roar right back to life.
5. Safety: A well-maintained battery reduces the risk of starting issues and potential safety hazards arising from a failed start or poor battery performance.

Cons of Using a Battery Tender 

1. Initial Investment: Although not overly expensive, purchasing a battery tender is an additional cost. For some people, this might be a consideration. That can be a particular challenge if they have multiple pieces of equipment.
2. Electricity Requirement: They require a continuous electrical connection. This connectivity can be a challenge if your storage area for the equipment is not near an electrical outlet.
3. Overcharging Risks: While most modern battery tenders are designed to prevent overcharging, there is still a slight risk. An overcharged battery can reduce its lifespan and potentially be a safety hazard.
4. Maintenance Dependency: There’s a risk of becoming overly dependent on the battery tender. Regular checks and maintenance of the equipment, including the battery, are still essential.
5. Compatibility Issues: Not all types are suitable for all types of batteries. It’s important to ensure that the tender you choose is compatible with the specific battery in your equipment.

The Takeaway: It Comes Down to a Personal Choice

It’s time to decide whether to use a battery tender for your small gas engine equipment during the winter months or not. That decision comes down to weighing these pros and cons. The benefits of extended battery life, prevention of damage due to freezing, cost savings, convenience, and safety are compelling.

However, you cannot overlook key considerations like the initial investment, the need for an electricity source, potential overcharging risks, maintenance dependency, and compatibility issues. Ultimately, using one can be a wise choice for many. Still, assessing your specific situation and equipment needs is important before making a decision.

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