Yes, connecting the negative terminal first in a battery charger can cause damage to both the battery and charger. Always follow the correct sequence of connecting positive first. How long should I leave the battery charger connected to my car battery?
Just like in any relationship, it’s important to approach it with the right mindset. Therefore, to avoid any sparks or mishaps, always connect the black negative terminal first, because as the saying goes: start with the negative, and end with the positive – a winning strategy, both in love and in battery charging.
The positive terminal is stamped with a ‘plus’ symbol (+) or “POS,” and the negative terminal is stamped with a minus symbol (-) or “NEG.” Now that you know how to differentiate between a positive and negative battery terminal, let’s talk about the basics of jump starting a car.
Check that the charger is not plugged in to an electric outlet and that the power switch is off. Connect the positive (usually red) charger cable to the positive (+) battery terminal and the negative (usually black) cable to the negative (-) battery terminal. Decide whether you want to charge the battery slowly (trickle charge) or quickly.
Next, identify the positive and negative terminals on the battery – the positive will typically be marked with a “+” sign, while the negative will be marked with a “-“. The order in which you connect the charger cables is important – always connect the positive cable first, followed by the negative.
When the battery is fully charged, disconnect the charger in the opposite order – negative lead first, then the positive. And remember to always handle your battery with care and make sure it’s in a well-ventilated area when charging. By following these simple steps, you can safely charge your car battery and avoid any potential hazards.