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Vehicle batteries may stop working due to a long period of storage. Its gel or another part might get jammed due to environmental conditions. In a few cases, it may occur while you’re on the road.
The best solar jump starters come in handy to help you beat such circumstances. They instantly boost up the battery so it can work flawlessly without the need for electricity. It is especially useful when you do not have instant access to power or wish to reduce your carbon footprint.
If you think picking the right option is a tedious task, take a look at the 7 best solar jump starters. Learn about its features and get answers to all your questions related to solar jump starters.
Read on for our expert reviews of the best solar jump starters available. Check the latest prices to ensure you get a great deal!
Contents
- 1 Our Top Picks
- 2 7 Best Solar Jump Starters
- 2.1 1. Sunway Solar Car Battery Trickle Charger & Maintainer
- 2.2 2. Schumacher Solar Battery Charger and Maintainer
- 2.3 3. SUNER POWER 12V Solar Car Battery Charger & Maintainer
- 2.4 4. POWOXI 3.3W-Solar-Battery-Trickle-Charger-Maintainer
- 2.5 5. SUNAPEX 12V Solar Trickle Charger
- 2.6 6. SUAOKI 12V Solar Car Battery Charger
- 2.7 7. POWISER 3.5W Solar Battery Charger
- 3 Solar Jump Starter Buying Guide
- 4 Case Study: Enhancing Roadside Assistance with Solar Jump Starters
- 5 Expert Insights From Our Solar Panel Installers About Solar Jump Starters
Our Top Picks
Image | Name | |
---|---|---|
Sunway Solar Car Battery Trickle Charger & Maintainer | ||
Schumacher Solar Battery Charger and Maintainer | ||
SUNER POWER 12V Solar Car Battery Charger & Maintainer | ||
POWOXI 3.3W-Solar-Battery-Trickle-Charger-Maintainer | ||
SUNAPEX 12V Solar Trickle Charger | ||
SUAOKI 12V Solar Car Battery Charger | ||
POWISER 3.5W Solar Battery Charger |
7 Best Solar Jump Starters
1. Sunway Solar Car Battery Trickle Charger & Maintainer
Sunway Solar Car Battery Charger is one of the most efficient solar jump starters. It can easily power up a 12V battery of any motor vehicle, providing a power output of up to 4 watts. The charger is lightweight, compact, and super easy to use.
Features
Tempered Protection
Solar cells can easily get damaged from water, snow, dust, and other external factors. Not this one, though. The Sunway Solar Car Battery Charger has tempered glass to protect the solar cells while allowing maximum exposure to sunlight. Rest assured the array of solar cells in this charger will work seamlessly for years to come.
Efficient
The solar battery charger comprises highly efficient polycrystalline solar cells producing electric power of up to 4 watts. Besides, they do not overcharge the vehicle battery if it is 20Ah or higher. Therefore, you need not worry about the battery getting affected.
Simple and Versatile
What makes it one of the best solar jump starters is its simple plug and play style. All you need to do is mount the solar panel in a position such that it gets direct sunlight. Plug the connector either into the cigarette lighter of the car or onto the car battery. It is that simple. Besides, it is potent enough to charge multiple types of batteries, including GEL, AGM, deep cycle, and SLA.
Durable and Convenient
The solar charger features ABS plastic housing for additional protection. So, you need not worry about it getting damaged from the sides as well. Besides, it comes with a 2.5-meter wire, so you can easily mount it on your windscreen. Additionally, the pack includes suction cups for an effortless mounting setup.
Pros:
- Will not overcharge the battery, ensuring complete safety
- It comes with a 12-month warranty
- Includes all the required accessories
- All-in-one durable construction and efficient function
- Easy to install and yet versatile for multiple applications
Cons:
- It will only function when exposed to sunlight
2. Schumacher Solar Battery Charger and Maintainer
The Schumacher Solar Battery Charger is an excellent jump starter for 12V batteries. Though it is one of the most expensive chargers on the list, it offers a power of up to 4.8 watts. Besides, the jump starter comes with multiple accessories, letting you charge the vehicle through the cigarette lighter or directly.
Features
Highly Efficient
Unlike most other options, this jump starter produces power of up to 4.8 watts. Therefore, it can help you charge up and maintain your vehicle’s 12V battery with ease. Plus, you can use the Schumacher SPC-7A charge and protect the battery from overcharging.
Easy Use and Maintenance
The Schumacher Solar Battery Charger is a modern device with a sleek body. It is incredibly simple to use, requiring you to plug through one of the two ways – cigarette lighter or battery clamps. Besides, it comes with thick glass, which is easy to clean and prevents dust accumulation in solar cells.
Versatile
While most solar jump starters are primarily for motor vehicles of different kinds, this one charges vehicles and more. Apart from cars, motorbikes, RVs, watercraft, and snowmobiles, it is also compatible with lawnmowers. With this, you can leverage the power of solar energy and keep your carbon footprint at bay, even at home.
Durable and Functional
What makes it one of the best jump starters is that it can work even in cloudy conditions in daylight. Besides, it is water-resistant and can easily endure different weather conditions without its efficiency getting affected.
Pros:
- It can also work in cloudy conditions
- The solar charger does not require maintenance
- It is a water-resistant solar jump starter
- This jump starter is easy to use
- It produces power of up to 4.8 watts
Cons:
- Compatible with acid-lead batteries only
- Comparatively expensive
3. SUNER POWER 12V Solar Car Battery Charger & Maintainer
The Suner Power Solar Battery Charger is a versatile device that can charge up any vehicle’s batteries. It is compatible with multiple types of batteries, performs efficiently and is also cost-effective. Besides, the solar jump starter is lightweight and convenient.
Features
Cost-Effective
What makes it the best solar jump starter is that it offers 8 watts of solar power at a reasonable price. This makes it highly cost-efficient and comparatively better than other devices of its kind. Now you can charge up your vehicle’s 12-volt battery and also save some dollars.
Easy to Install
The Suner Power Solar Battery Charger features a plug and play design. All you need to do is connect the chord to one of the two options and charge the battery. You can opt for a cigarette lighter or charge your vehicle battery directly through battery clamps.
Durable Construction
Another excellent feature of the solar charger is its high-quality construction. A thick glass panel covers the solar cells to prevent dust from entering while allowing maximum sunlight simultaneously. Additionally, it has a solid ABS frame minimizing the chances of damage.
Reverse Protection
Unlike most other jump starters, you do not need any additional accessories to prevent overcharging or discharging while using this charger. It comes with an in-built blocking diode that prevents discharging. So you can rest assures this charger will not affect the quality and performance of your battery.
Pros:
- It comes with a 12-month battery
- The solar charger provides 8 watts of output at reasonable prices
- It saves your vehicle battery from overcharging and discharging
- The solar cells are covered with thick, durable glass and ABS frame
- It includes suction cups for easy mounting
Cons:
- It may not work on cloudy days
4. POWOXI 3.3W-Solar-Battery-Trickle-Charger-Maintainer
The POWOXI Solar Battery Maintainer is an excellent solar jump starter for 12-volt batteries. It has a power output of 3.3 watts, which may not be too high, but is well worth the pocket-friendly price.
Features
Reverse Current Protection
An excellent feature of this solar jump starter is that it protects the battery from discharging. It has a built-in diode that acts as a barrier and prevents the battery from getting discharged.
Thin Film Construction
What makes the POWOXI stand on the list of the best solar jump starters is its state of the art technology. The thin-film construction allows the efficient functioning of the solar cells. With this, they can work even in low light or cloudy conditions. Therefore, it proves to work well even in rainy regions.
Easy Installation
The solar jump starter is easy to install as it features a plug and play design. You just need to connect it directly to the battery with the crocodile clamps or the cigarette lighter. Besides, it is lightweight and has a compact body, so you can easily mount it on your windscreen.
Durability
It is well-equipped with durable glass that extends the life of the solar cells. Additionally, it has a heavy-duty ABS frame to ensure the extended life of the solar jump starter. Its cables are made with high-quality materials to withstand high electric temperatures and prevent damage.
Pros:
- Prevents reverse discharge of battery
- It comes with light indicators for convenience
- The device has a 12-month warranty
- Works in all types of weather
- It bears CE/ROHS certifications
- Has a waterproof rating of IP65
Cons:
- The power capacity of 3.3 watts is relatively lower than its counterparts
5. SUNAPEX 12V Solar Trickle Charger
The SUNAPEX 12V Solar Charger is the most pocket-friendly solar jump starter on the list. However, its energy output only extends to 1.8 watts. Besides, you can use this heavy-duty, weatherproof jump starter even in cloudy conditions.
Features
Versatile Application
The SUNAPEX 12V Solar Charger is compatible with all types of 12V batteries. Additionally, you can use it to charge batteries of multiple vehicles like snowmobiles, watercraft, cars, RVs and more. Therefore, you need not purchase numerous chargers for different vehicles.
Resistant to Weather Conditions
The solar jump starter has a strong glass to protect the solar cells from all kinds of weather conditions. It is waterproof and resists environmental factors like rain, hail, snow as well as dust.
Prevents Battery Discharge
The solar jump starter comes with a reverse diode to protect the battery from getting discharged. Therefore, you need not worry about your battery’s efficiency as the device will maintain its health. Moreover, it prevents the battery from getting overcharged and ensures smooth functioning.
Efficient Function
The amorphous solar cells of the jump starter can charge up in any weather condition. So you need not worry about the climatic conditions anymore. Its thin-film technology ensures maximum utilization of sunlight to charge the vehicle batteries without any hindrances.
Pros:
- The most pocket-friendly option on the list
- It comes with charging indicator lights
- The device features reverse charge protection
- It can function in different weather conditions
- The jump starter is compatible with all types of batteries
- It is portable and highly durable
Cons:
- The power output is relatively low
6. SUAOKI 12V Solar Car Battery Charger
If you are looking for the ultimate energy booster, the SUAOKI 12V Solar Battery Charger takes the lead. Providing an energy output of up to 18 watts, this solar jump starter outperforms all other options. Though it is relatively pricier, its efficiency and quality are totally worth it.
Features
Ultralight and Portable
The SUAOKI 12V Solar Battery Charger is ultralight, so you will not face any problems in carrying or storing it. Besides, its compact body requires minimal space. So, you can mount it on your car’s windscreen or place it over the dashboard.
Durable and Resistant
Another feature of this device that you’ll love is its durability and resistance to external factors. The solar jump starter is resistant to water as well as heat. Moreover, it dissipates heat quickly and keeps damage at bay.
Highly-Efficient Solar Cells
Its solar cells boast an efficiency rate of around 22.5%. Therefore, you can rely on this solar jump starter to charge the battery of all your vehicles. It can charge batteries at a voltage of 18V. Besides, it is a premium quality device and will certainly maintain the battery’s life.
Versatile Function
The solar jump starter can work at extreme temperatures ranging from -20°C to 65°C. So you need not worry about the weather to use it. Besides, you can use the device to charge multiple vehicle batteries, including watercraft, snowmobiles, trucks, RV, cars, and motorbikes.
Pros:
- It produces an energy output of up to 18 watts
- Works at an efficiency rating of 22.5%
- You can easily carry around and install the lightweight device
- It can function at a large temperature range in extreme weather conditions
- The device is waterproof and resistant to heat
Cons:
- The reverse discharge feature may not work if left for prolonged periods
- Relatively more expensive than other options
7. POWISER 3.5W Solar Battery Charger
The POWISIER 3.5W Solar Battery Charger is one of its kind as its polycrystalline solar cells are highly efficient. It boasts a heavy-duty construction and comes with a 12-month warranty, so you need not worry about its flawless functionality.
Features
Weather Resistant
The solar jump starter features durable tempered glass. Therefore, the device functions smoothly and proves to be resistant to rain, snow, and hail. Besides, it does not accumulate dust and is pretty easy to maintain.
Long and Durable Cables
The POWISIER 3.5W Solar Battery Charger comes with an 8.2 feet cable, so you can easily mount it at your desired location. Moreover, it is a heavy-duty cable and can withstand extreme temperatures. Thus, you need not worry about it getting damaged due to hot or cold conditions.
Polycrystalline Solar Cells
The solar jump starter is made from polycrystalline solar cells that produce power at a higher efficiency. Rest assured it will charge your vehicle’s battery without any discrepancies in the performance.
Reverse Diodes
The POWISIER 3.5W Solar Battery Charger comprises a built-in diode. It makes sure your vehicle’s battery does not start to discharge. That means the solar jump starter will not consume power from the battery and will only work one way – charging the battery.
Pros:
- Pocket-friendly prices
- It comes with a 12-month warranty
- The solar jump starter is resistant to all weather conditions
- Lightweight, portable, and easy to install
- It comes with a built-in diode to prevent reverse charging
Cons:
- The energy output is relatively low
Solar Jump Starter Buying Guide
Have you already chosen an optimum solar jump starter according to your requirements? Well, you must thoroughly consider a few factors before making your final pick. These include durability, power output, size, and warranty, among others.
Besides, learning more about what is a solar jump starter will help you make the best decision. Check out the best solar jump starters buying guide before buying your chosen option.
Key Takeaways
- A solar jump starter is a device that uses solar energy to charge vehicle batteries and can be used for various vehicles, including cars, SUVs, and more.
- Solar jump starters are eco-friendly, portable, and convenient devices that can help maintain your vehicle’s battery and are suitable for outdoor activities.
- When buying a solar jump starter, consider factors like durability, power output, accessories, additional functions, price, and warranty to choose the best option.
What is A Solar Jump Starter?
A solar jump starter is a device that uses the sun’s energy to charge a battery.
You can use it for vehicle batteries like that of a car, SUV, ATV, truck, motorbike, water, and snowmobiles. Additionally, some of these batteries can also power up lawnmower engines.
- It converts sunlight into energy to power up the batteries
- You can connect it with the vehicle battery through clamps or cigarette lighter
- Solar jump starters are designed to power up batteries with a specific range of volt
- It does not require electricity for charging
How Does A Solar Jump Starter Work?
Your vehicle’s battery may not work if it was not in use for a long time. In such cases, you can use a solar jump starter to kickstart the battery.
- Place the solar jump starter under direct sunlight
- Connect it with the car’s battery directly or through the cigarette lighter
- The solar cells will convert the sun’s energy into chemical energy and charge the battery
Note: Do not use the jump starter when the battery is in use.
What Are the Benefits of A Solar Jump Starter?
Solar jump starters come to your rescue when you’re in the middle of nowhere and do not have access to electricity. While they cannot recharge a completely dead battery, they kickstart a battery that has stopped working. All of this, with a host of other benefits like cost-efficiency.
Eco-Friendly
One of the primary benefits of using a solar jump starter is that it saves you from an enormous carbon footprint. These devices use solar energy to produce electric current and power up the battery. They neither use electricity nor produce any toxic emissions that may harm the environment.
Portable
While you may not be able to carry around electric chargers with you, solar jump starters do not have that limitation. These are small devices that you can carry around for road trips, camping, and any other outdoor activities. They are lightweight and are attached to your car’s windscreen, occupying minimal space.
Convenient
Solar jump starters are incredibly easy to use. These come with a plug and play design, requiring you just to connect the chords. Place the device under the sun and either connect it to the cigarette lighter or directly to the battery.
Battery Maintenance
These devices are excellent for maintaining your vehicle’s battery. Solar jump starters do not overcharge your batteries, and most of them also feature reverse charge protection. Thus, they help maintain your vehicle’s battery.
Factors to Consider When Buying a Solar Jump Starter
Choosing the right solar jump starter will save you from hampering the battery’s functionality. You need to consider factors like the size, power output, and whether all its features are worth the price.
Durability
Make sure to pick a jump starter with high-quality construction. While you may take precautions while using it, choosing a device with a strong frame and covering will ensure its prolonged use. Besides, having heavy-duty cables is quintessential.
Power Output
How much power output do you need. Solar jump starters come with varying capacities ranging from 2 watts to 8 and 16 watts. However, it may also affect the final price of the device. Analyze your requirements and budget and compare different options to choose the best solar jump starter.
Accessories
The best solar jump starters come with accessories like suction cups and multiple connection cables. Make sure to pick a solar jump starter set that has your preferred mode of charging the battery.
Additional Functions
Some solar jump starters have special features that prevent reverse charging. They make sure your vehicle battery does not get discharged. Additionally, these devices protect the batteries from overcharging. Both these functions are essential for your battery’s prolonged life.
Price and Warranty
Compare all the features offered by the solar jump starter with its price. Even if it is slightly expensive from its counterparts, it is a good option as far as it meets your requirements. Besides, choosing a device that comes with a warranty is always beneficial.
Case Study: Enhancing Roadside Assistance with Solar Jump Starters
Background
At Solar Panels Network USA, we strive to provide innovative and reliable solar solutions to our customers. Recently, we introduced solar jump starters to a fleet of roadside assistance vehicles to improve their efficiency and reduce carbon footprint.
Project Overview
The fleet, consisting of 25 vehicles, was previously using conventional jump starters. These devices were often cumbersome and required frequent recharging. Our goal was to replace them with solar jump starters to ensure continuous operation without relying on electrical outlets.
Implementation
Site Assessment and Planning
The initial phase involved assessing the fleet’s needs and determining the optimal specifications for the solar jump starters:
- Vehicle Types: Evaluating the battery capacities of different vehicles in the fleet.
- Usage Frequency: Understanding how often the jump starters would be used and in what conditions.
Selection of Solar Jump Starters
Based on the assessment, we selected robust solar jump starters with the following features:
- High Power Output: Models with at least 8 watts of power to ensure quick and efficient charging.
- Durability: Devices with high-quality construction and IP67 ratings for dust and water resistance.
- Additional Functions: Jump starters equipped with reverse charge protection and overcharge prevention.
Installation Process
The installation was straightforward:
- Mounting Solar Panels: Solar panels were mounted on the vehicle rooftops to maximize sunlight exposure.
- Connecting Jump Starters: Each jump starter was securely connected to the vehicle’s battery system.
- Testing: The devices were tested under various conditions to ensure they performed reliably.
Results
Improved Efficiency
The solar jump starters significantly enhanced the efficiency of the roadside assistance vehicles. The continuous charging via solar panels ensured that the devices were always ready for use, eliminating downtime due to recharging.
Environmental Impact
By switching to solar jump starters, the fleet reduced its carbon footprint. The eco-friendly devices provided a sustainable solution, aligning with our commitment to green technology.
User Satisfaction
The roadside assistance team reported a noticeable improvement in the convenience and reliability of their operations. The easy-to-use design and portability of the solar jump starters made their job more manageable and efficient.
Summary
Our project to integrate solar jump starters into the roadside assistance fleet demonstrated the practical benefits of solar technology in real-world applications. The selected devices provided reliable performance, enhanced efficiency, and contributed to environmental sustainability. Solar Panels Network USA remains dedicated to offering cutting-edge solar solutions that meet the diverse needs of our clients.
Expert Insights From Our Solar Panel Installers About Solar Jump Starters
Durability is crucial when selecting a solar jump starter. Ensure it has a sturdy construction and heavy-duty cables to withstand various environmental conditions.
Senior Solar Technician
Power output is a key factor. Choose a solar jump starter with enough wattage to meet your needs, but also consider the price-to-performance ratio.
Solar Systems Specialist
Look for additional functions like reverse charge protection and overcharge prevention. These features extend the life of both the jump starter and your vehicle’s battery.
Solar Energy Consultant
Our Expertise in Solar Products
At Solar Panels Network USA, we’re not just installers; we’re enthusiasts, researchers, and users of solar jump starters. Over the years, we’ve been at the forefront of solar technology, understanding the nuances and intricacies of various solar-powered jump starters. Our team has hands-on experience with a wide range of solar jump starters, and we’ve seen the evolution of solar jump starters from their inception to the advanced versions available today.
Why Trust Our Reviews?
- Hands-On Testing: Before penning down any review, our team spends weeks testing products. For this article, we installed and used each of these solar jump starters in various settings – from jump-starting vehicles to powering outdoor equipment, ensuring we understand their performance in real-world scenarios.
- Continuous Learning: We regularly attend solar technology conferences, workshops, and seminars. This continuous learning ensures we’re always updated with the latest solar tech, allowing us to evaluate products against the most recent standards.
- Feedback Loop: Over the years, we’ve built a community of solar enthusiasts. We often reach out to them for feedback on products, ensuring our reviews aren’t just based on our perspective but are a reflection of the broader community’s experiences.
- Transparency: Whenever we receive products for review from manufacturers, we ensure full transparency with our readers. For this article, some products were purchased by our team, while manufacturers sent others. However, our reviews remain unbiased, focusing solely on the product’s performance.
- Decades of Experience: Collectively, our team has over two decades of experience in the solar industry. From understanding the technical aspects of solar cells to the functional design of solar jump starters, our expertise spans wide and deep.
In this article, we’ve combined our personal experiences, technical knowledge, and feedback from our community to provide you with comprehensive reviews of the best solar jump starters for 2024. We believe that our expertise, combined with our commitment to transparency and continuous learning, makes us a reliable source for solar jump starter reviews.
Wrap Up
When it comes to jammed batteries, solar jump starters are excellent devices. They power up vehicle batteries and charge them at a slow pace to maintain consistency.
While choosing a solar jump starter, weigh upon factors like power output, efficiency, durability, and battery size, among others. Besides, the device must have a built-in blocking diode to prevent reverse charging. Most devices also protect the battery from overcharging.
Go through all its features and compare the prices of multiple options to pick the best solar jump starter.
About the Author
Solar Panels Network USA stands at the forefront of solar energy solutions, driven by a team of seasoned solar engineers and energy consultants. With over decades of experience in delivering high-quality solar installations and maintenance, we are committed to promoting sustainable energy through customer-centric, tailored solutions. Our articles reflect this commitment, crafted collaboratively by experts to provide accurate, up-to-date insights into solar technology, ensuring our readers are well-informed and empowered in their solar energy decisions.