Peppy as they are when new, car batteries lose energy and resilience over time, succumbing to wear and tear, weather factors and other corrosive phenomena. That can be pretty problematic when you’re planning a long road trip. The Xtreme Charge, a lightweight (about 3 pounds), 7.5- by 3.5- by 2-inch-thick electric device, is designed to both maintain healthy car batteries and recharge waning ones anywhere there’s access to a wall outlet, extending battery life and countering draining weather conditions. Just plug the 6-foot-long AC cord into any wall outlet, and attach the 6-foot-long charging line’s red- and black-coded clips to the corresponding terminal bolts on your car battery. (An optional 25-foot extension lead provides extra reach). Once connected, the Xtreme Charge does all the work, with no buttons to press. Blinking lights track the charging, from no charge to 100 percent charged, and even indicate if the battery is beyond resuscitation. The device is meant to be used regularly to keep the battery up to snuff. Fully charging a dead battery could take 24 hours, so the Xtreme Charge is not meant to replace jumper cables when time is of the essence, or you’re on the road with no access to a wall outlet. Keeping the car battery optimally charged makes smart sense — especially in very cold weather or in preparation for a long trip. Works with any 12-volt lead acid battery, including boat and motorcycle batteries. Xtreme Charge is about $100; 25-foot extension lead is $10, at ; 888-287-9314.
Judi Dash, Gear & Gadgets Syndicate
