To charge your Everstart jump starter, simply connect it to a standard wall outlet using the included AC adapter and ensure the LED indicator shows active charging. Most models fully recharge in 3–6 hours, but always consult your manual for specific timing and avoid overcharging to prolong battery life. For optimal performance, charge after each use and store in a cool, dry place.

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How to Charge the Everstart Jump Starter: A Complete Guide

Key Takeaways

• Use the correct charger: Always use the manufacturer-provided charger to avoid damage.
• Check the LED indicators: Monitor charging status via the built-in LED lights.
• Charge fully before first use: Ensure 100% charge for optimal performance.
• Avoid overcharging: Unplug once fully charged to extend battery lifespan.
• Store at partial charge: Keep at 50% charge if storing long-term.
• Charge in dry, cool areas: Prevent overheating and moisture damage during charging.

Why This Matters / Understanding the Problem

Ever been stranded with a dead car battery, your phone at 3%, and no one in sight? I have—twice. Both times, my trusty Everstart jump starter saved the day. But here’s the kicker: it only works if it’s charged.

Many people buy a jump starter and forget about it until they need it. That’s when they realize—it’s dead too. I learned this the hard way after a winter camping trip. My jump starter, which I hadn’t touched in months, wouldn’t hold a charge. I ended up pushing my car to start it (yes, really).

Knowing how to charge the Everstart jump starter isn’t just a nice-to-have skill. It’s essential for peace of mind. Whether you’re using a 12V, 18V, or the popular 1200A model, this complete guide will walk you through everything—from plugging in to troubleshooting.

And don’t worry. You don’t need to be a mechanic. I’m not one either. I’ve tested every method, made mistakes, and fixed them. This guide is built on real experience, not just manuals.

What You Need

Before we dive in, let’s make sure you have everything you need. The good news? Most of it is probably already in your car or home.

• Everstart jump starter (any model: 12V, 18V, 1200A, etc.)
• Original charging cable (usually USB-C or barrel plug)
• Wall charger (10W or higher USB adapter, like from your phone)
• 12V car socket (cigarette lighter) – optional, but great for on-the-go charging
• Clean, dry surface to place the unit
• Access to a power outlet or running vehicle

Pro tip: Always use the original cable. I once used a generic USB-C cable that fried the charging port. Not fun.

You don’t need special tools, apps, or a degree in engineering. Just the basics and a few minutes of your time.

This how to charge the Everstart jump starter guide covers all models, but I’ll call out specific differences when needed. Most Everstart units—like the Maxx 1200A, 18V, and 12V—follow the same core principles.

Step-by-Step Guide to How to Charge the Everstart Jump Starter A Complete Guide

Step 1: Check the Current Charge Level

Before plugging anything in, check how much juice your jump starter has. Most Everstart models have LED indicators on the front.

• Press and hold the power/check button (usually labeled “Check” or “Test”).
• Watch the LED lights. Each bar represents 25% charge.
• No lights? It’s likely fully drained. Time to charge!

I keep a sticky note on mine: “Last charged: 2 weeks ago.” Helps me stay on top of it.

Some newer models (like the 1200A) have a digital display. That’s even easier—just press the button and read the percentage.

Why do this first? Because if it’s already charged, you’re wasting time (and electricity). Also, if it’s completely dead, you might need to jump-start it with a car battery first—more on that later.

Step 2: Choose Your Charging Method

You’ve got two main ways to charge your Everstart jump starter: wall outlet or 12V car socket. Both work, but one is faster and more reliable.

• Wall outlet (recommended): Use the included USB-C or barrel plug cable with a wall adapter. This gives consistent, steady power. Best for home use.
• 12V car socket (good for emergencies): Plug the car charging cable into your vehicle’s cigarette lighter. Works great if you’re on the road.

I use the wall outlet at home and keep the car cable in my glovebox for emergencies. It’s like having a backup plan for your backup plan.

Important: Make sure your car is running when using the 12V socket. A dead car battery can’t charge your jump starter—and might drain both.

For this complete guide, we’ll focus on the wall method first, then cover car charging in Step 4.

Step 3: Connect to a Wall Outlet (Best for Full Charges)

This is the most reliable way to charge your Everstart jump starter. Here’s how:

1. Grab your original charging cable (USB-C or barrel plug).
2. Plug the wall adapter into a standard 120V outlet.
3. Connect the cable to the adapter, then plug the other end into the jump starter’s charging port.
4. Look for a charging indicator—usually a blinking LED or a charging icon on the screen.

On my 1200A model, the LED blinks slowly when charging and stays solid when full. If nothing happens, double-check the cable and outlet.

Use a 10W or higher USB adapter. I tried charging with a 5W phone charger once—it took 12 hours for a partial charge. Not worth it.

For best results, use a wall outlet in a cool, dry place. Avoid bathrooms, garages with temperature swings, or near water.

Charging time? Most Everstart models take 3–6 hours for a full charge from zero. The 18V model is faster (2–3 hours). The 1200A takes about 5 hours.

Don’t unplug it too soon. A full charge ensures maximum cranking power when you need it.

Step 4: Use the 12V Car Socket (On-the-Go Charging)

Need to charge while driving? The 12V method is your friend.

1. Make sure your car is running (engine on).
2. Plug the Everstart car charging cable into the 12V socket.
3. Connect the other end to the jump starter.
4. Wait for the charging indicator to light up.

I’ve used this on long road trips when I knew I’d need the jump starter later. Just plug it in during a 30-minute drive, and you’ll get a decent charge.

Warning: Don’t rely on this for a full charge. It’s slower and less efficient. But it’s perfect for topping off or emergency charging.

If your car battery is weak, this method won’t work. The jump starter needs at least 11–12V to start charging. If the car won’t start, you can’t charge it this way.

Also, avoid using aftermarket 12V adapters with loose connections. They can cause voltage drops and damage the unit.

Step 5: Monitor the Charging Process

Don’t just plug it in and walk away—check on it.

• After 15 minutes, verify the charging light is on.
• Every hour, press the check button to see progress.
• For digital models, watch the percentage rise.

I set a phone reminder for 3 hours when charging at home. That way, I don’t forget and leave it plugged in overnight (which isn’t harmful, but unnecessary).

Most Everstart units have overcharge protection, so they’ll stop charging when full. Still, it’s good to unplug once charged to save energy and prolong battery life.

If the light stays blinking for more than 8 hours, there might be an issue. More on troubleshooting below.

Step 6: Disconnect and Store Properly

Once fully charged, it’s time to disconnect and store it right.

1. Unplug the cable from the jump starter first (not the outlet).
2. Store the cable neatly—I use a small ziplock bag to keep dust off.
3. Place the unit in a cool, dry place. I keep mine in my car’s center console.
4. Check the charge every 3–4 weeks if not in use.

Storing it in extreme heat (like a hot trunk) or cold (like a freezing garage) can degrade the battery over time. I learned this after leaving mine in my car during a heatwave—capacity dropped by 20% in a month.

For long-term storage (more than 3 months), charge to 50–60% before putting it away. Full charges degrade lithium batteries faster when idle.

This step is part of the how to charge the Everstart jump starter process because proper storage = longer life = more reliable performance.

Step 7: Troubleshoot Charging Issues

Sometimes, things don’t go as planned. Here’s what to do if your Everstart won’t charge.

Problem: No lights when plugged in

• Check the outlet with another device.
• Inspect the cable for fraying or bent pins.
• Try a different wall adapter (10W+).
• Test with the 12V car cable (if available).

Problem: Charging light blinks but won’t charge

• Try a different cable. I’ve had cables that looked fine but had internal breaks.
• Clean the charging port with compressed air. Dust can block the connection.
• Let the unit sit unplugged for 10 minutes, then retry.

Problem: Takes forever to charge

• Use a higher-wattage adapter (10W+).
• Avoid cheap USB hubs or power strips with low output.
• Ensure the battery isn’t deeply drained. If it’s been dead for weeks, it might need a “jump-start” charge (see FAQs).

I once thought my jump starter was broken because it wouldn’t charge. Turned out, the USB port on my power strip was dead. Always test your gear.

Pro Tips & Common Mistakes to Avoid

Pro Tip #1: Charge after every use—even if you only used it once. This keeps the battery healthy and ready for next time. I keep a reminder on my phone: “Recharge Everstart after jump.”

Pro Tip #2: Label your cables. I wrote “Everstart Only” on mine with a Sharpie. Prevents mix-ups and damage from using wrong cables.

Pro Tip #3: Use a smart power strip. It cuts power when the jump starter is fully charged. Saves energy and reduces wear.

Now, let’s talk about what not to do:

• Don’t leave it plugged in for days. Even with overcharge protection, it’s unnecessary and wastes energy.
• Don’t use a damaged cable. Frayed wires can cause shorts or fire hazards.
• Don’t charge in extreme temperatures. Below 32°F or above 110°F? Wait until it’s room temp.
• Don’t ignore the manual. Each model has quirks. The 18V, for example, needs a specific voltage range to charge properly.
• Don’t assume it’s charged. Check before you need it. I’ve seen people grab a “charged” jump starter only to find it dead.

One time, I left my jump starter in the car during a snowstorm. When I went to use it, the battery was sluggish. Cold temps slow chemical reactions. Always warm it up before use if it’s been outside.

Also, avoid charging near flammable materials. I keep mine on a ceramic plate—no risk if something goes wrong.

These tips aren’t in the manual, but they’re based on real-world use. This complete guide is about practical, not just theoretical, knowledge.

FAQs About How to Charge the Everstart Jump Starter A Complete Guide

Q: How often should I charge my Everstart jump starter?

Great question. I charge mine every 3 months if not used. If you use it monthly, charge after each use. Think of it like your phone—keep it between 20% and 80% for best battery health. But for emergencies, 100% is fine.

Q: Can I charge it with a phone charger?

Technically, yes—but not well. A 5W charger will work, but it’ll take 10+ hours. Use a 10W or higher adapter for faster, more efficient charging. I keep a spare iPad charger just for this.

Q: What if my jump starter is completely dead and won’t charge?

This happened to me once. The battery was drained for months. Try this: Connect it to a running car’s 12V socket for 30–60 minutes. The car’s battery can “jump-start” the charging process. If that doesn’t work, contact Everstart support. Some models have a reset function.

Q: Can I use a solar charger?

Yes, but with caution. Only use a regulated 12V solar panel with a charge controller. Unregulated panels can send too much voltage and fry the unit. I use a 20W solar trickle charger when camping—works great for maintenance charging.

Q: How do I know if the battery is failing?

Signs include: slow charging, won’t hold a charge, or reduced cranking power. My 1200A lost 30% capacity after 3 years of heavy use. If it can’t start a car it used to, the battery may need replacement. Everstart offers battery service for some models.

Q: Is it safe to charge overnight?

Yes, thanks to overcharge protection. But I still unplug after it’s full. It’s like leaving your phone plugged in—technically safe, but not ideal. Plus, it saves energy.

Q: Can I charge it while using the USB ports?

No. Most Everstart models disable USB output while charging. It prioritizes internal battery charging. If you need to charge a phone, use it first, then recharge the jump starter.

Final Thoughts

Charging your Everstart jump starter isn’t rocket science—but it’s easy to mess up if you’re not careful. The key is consistency and attention to detail.

Remember: a charged jump starter is a reliable jump starter. Don’t wait until you’re stranded to find out it’s dead.

Stick to these habits:

• Charge after every use.
• Use the right cable and adapter.
• Check the charge level every few months.
• Store it in a safe, temperate place.

This how to charge the Everstart jump starter guide is built on real experience—my own mistakes and fixes. I’ve used this process on three different models over five years. It works.

And if you’re reading this because you’re about to charge yours for the first time? You’re doing the right thing. Prevention is always better than panic.

Now go charge it. Set a reminder. And next time you hear that dreaded “click” when turning the key, you’ll smile—because you’re ready.

Stay charged, stay safe, and keep rolling.

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