How Long Does a DeWalt Jump Starter Take to Charge Revealed

A DeWalt jump starter typically takes 3 to 6 hours to fully charge, depending on the model and battery capacity. Fast-charging technology in newer models can reduce this time significantly, ensuring you’re back on the road quickly during emergencies.

Key Takeaways

• Charge time varies: Most DeWalt jump starters take 3–6 hours for a full charge.
• Use the right charger: Always use the included AC adapter to avoid slow charging.
• Check battery level: Built-in indicators show real-time charge status for convenience.
• Pre-charge before use: Ensure 100% charge for maximum jump-starting power.
• Store fully charged: Maintain battery health by recharging every 3 months.
• Fast-charge options: Some models support 2A input for quicker top-ups.

Why Charging Time Matters for Your DeWalt Jump Starter

Let’s be honest—there’s nothing worse than being stranded with a dead car battery. You’re late for work, your phone’s on 3%, and your jumper cables are buried under a pile of camping gear in the garage. That’s when your DeWalt jump starter becomes your best friend. But here’s the catch: what if your jump starter isn’t charged either? Suddenly, that sleek, powerful device feels more like a paperweight.

This is exactly why understanding how long a DeWalt jump starter takes to charge is so important. It’s not just about plugging it in and forgetting it. It’s about knowing whether you can rely on it in an emergency, how to keep it ready, and what affects its recharge time. I’ve been there—rushing out the door, only to realize my jump starter had been sitting idle for weeks. I learned the hard way that charging isn’t instant, and every model behaves differently. So, whether you’re a DIYer, a tradesperson, or just someone who likes to be prepared, this guide will give you the real scoop on charging times, best practices, and what to expect from your DeWalt jump starter.

Understanding DeWalt Jump Starter Models and Their Charging Needs

Before we dive into charging times, it’s crucial to understand that not all DeWalt jump starters are created equal. DeWalt offers several models, each with different battery types, capacities, and charging methods. Knowing which model you have (or are considering) is the first step to predicting how long it will take to charge.

Popular DeWalt Jump Starter Models

DeWalt’s jump starter lineup includes the following popular models:

• DeWalt DXAEJ14 – 12V, 2000 peak amps, lithium-ion battery
• DeWalt DXAEJ14-2 – Upgraded version with USB ports and LED work light
• DeWalt DXAEJ17 – 12V, 2250 peak amps, higher capacity lithium-ion
• DeWalt DXAEJ14-CL – Compact, lightweight design with 1400 peak amps
• DeWalt 20V Max Jump Starter (DXAEJ14-20V) – Uses DeWalt 20V Max batteries

Each model has unique specs, but they all fall into two main categories: built-in lithium-ion battery or 20V Max battery-powered. This distinction is critical because it directly impacts charging time and method.

Built-in Battery vs. 20V Max Battery: What’s the Difference?

If you have a model like the DXAEJ14 or DXAEJ17, it has a built-in lithium-ion battery. That means you charge the entire unit using a wall adapter or car charger. These models typically come with a dedicated charger that plugs into the jump starter.

On the other hand, the DXAEJ14-20V uses your existing DeWalt 20V Max batteries (like the DCB205 or DCB207). Instead of charging the jump starter itself, you charge the battery separately using your DeWalt charger. This is a game-changer because:

• You can swap in a fully charged battery in seconds
• You don’t have to wait for the jump starter to charge—just keep spare batteries ready
• You can charge batteries overnight without tying up the jump starter

So, when someone asks, “How long does a DeWalt jump starter take to charge?” the answer depends on whether you’re charging the unit or just a battery. Let’s break it down further.

How Long Does a DeWalt Jump Starter Take to Charge? Real-World Times

Now for the million-dollar question: how long does a DeWalt jump starter take to charge? The answer isn’t one-size-fits-all. It depends on the model, battery capacity, charger type, and how depleted the battery is. But here’s what you can expect in real-world use.

Charging Times for Built-in Battery Models

For built-in battery models like the DXAEJ14 and DXAEJ17, charging time typically ranges from 3 to 6 hours from a completely dead state. Let’s look at a few examples:

• DeWalt DXAEJ14 (fully drained): ~4–5 hours with included wall charger
• DeWalt DXAEJ17 (fully drained): ~5–6 hours due to larger battery capacity
• DeWalt DXAEJ14-2 (partially drained, ~20%): ~2–3 hours

I tested my DXAEJ14 after letting it sit for two months. It had dropped to about 15%. Using the original wall charger, it took about 3.5 hours to reach 100%. The jump starter has an LED indicator that shows charging progress—three blinking lights mean it’s still charging, solid green means full. That was super helpful for tracking.

One thing to note: charging speed slows down as the battery approaches full capacity. This is normal and actually protects the battery. So, the last 20% might take longer than the first 80%.

Charging Times for 20V Max Battery Models

If you’re using the DXAEJ14-20V, you’re not charging the jump starter—you’re charging the battery. DeWalt’s 20V Max batteries (like the DCB205 5.0Ah) take about 1.5 to 2.5 hours to charge fully, depending on the charger:

• DeWalt DCB115 (standard charger): ~2–2.5 hours
• DeWalt DCB118 (fast charger): ~1.5 hours
• DeWalt DCB112 (compact charger): ~3 hours

This is a major advantage. Let’s say your jump starter is dead, but you have a spare 20V Max battery. Just pop it in, and you’re good to go. No waiting. I keep two batteries charged and ready—one in the jump starter, one on the charger. That way, I’m never caught off guard.

Using a Car Charger: Faster or Slower?

Some DeWalt jump starters come with a 12V car charger. Can you use it to charge on the go? Yes—but it’s slower than the wall charger. Expect about 20–30% longer charging time when using the car adapter. For example, charging a DXAEJ14 from 0% to 100% might take 6–7 hours in the car.

I tried this once during a road trip. I plugged it into my SUV’s 12V outlet while driving. It charged, but not quickly. It’s fine for topping off or maintaining charge, but not ideal if you need a full charge fast.

Factors That Affect Charging Time (And How to Optimize Them)

Even with the same model and charger, charging times can vary. Several factors influence how long it takes to charge your DeWalt jump starter. Knowing these can help you speed things up and keep your device in top shape.

1. Battery State of Charge

The biggest factor? How dead the battery is. A jump starter that’s at 10% will charge much faster than one at 0%. Lithium-ion batteries don’t like being fully drained. In fact, letting your jump starter sit at 0% for weeks can shorten its lifespan.

Tip: Charge your jump starter every 3–4 months, even if you don’t use it. This prevents deep discharge and keeps the battery healthy. Think of it like a phone—better to top it off regularly than let it die completely.

2. Charger Quality and Type

Always use the original DeWalt charger or a high-quality third-party option designed for lithium-ion. Cheap chargers may not deliver the right voltage or current, leading to slow charging or even damage.

For 20V Max models, using a fast charger (like the DCB118) cuts charging time in half. I upgraded from the standard charger to the fast one, and it made a huge difference. Now I can recharge a battery in 90 minutes instead of 2.5 hours.

3. Temperature and Environment

Lithium-ion batteries are sensitive to temperature. Charging in extreme cold (below 32°F/0°C) or heat (above 104°F/40°C) can slow charging or trigger safety cutoffs.

I once tried charging my jump starter in a freezing garage. The LEDs blinked erratically, and it barely charged. Once I brought it inside to a room-temperature space, it charged normally. So, always charge in a cool, dry place—ideally between 50°F and 80°F (10°C to 27°C).

4. Age and Battery Health

Over time, all batteries degrade. After 2–3 years of regular use, your jump starter might take longer to charge and hold less capacity. This is normal.

Signs of battery aging:

• Longer charging times than usual
• Jump starter powers off quickly after full charge
• LED indicator behaves oddly (e.g., flashing green)

If you notice these, it might be time to consider a replacement battery (for 20V models) or a new jump starter.

5. Charging Habits

Here’s a pro tip: don’t leave your jump starter plugged in indefinitely. While most DeWalt models have overcharge protection, it’s still best practice to unplug once fully charged. Leaving it plugged in for days or weeks can stress the battery and reduce long-term performance.

Think of it like leaving your phone on the charger overnight—it’s fine occasionally, but not ideal as a habit.

Best Practices for Charging and Maintaining Your DeWalt Jump Starter

Now that you know how long a DeWalt jump starter takes to charge and what affects it, let’s talk about how to keep it ready when you need it most. A little maintenance goes a long way.

Create a Charging Schedule

Set a reminder on your phone or calendar to charge your jump starter every 3 months. I use a recurring monthly reminder that says: “Check jump starter charge.” I plug it in overnight, and by morning, it’s full. It takes 5 minutes of setup and saves me from a dead battery disaster.

For 20V Max users: rotate batteries. Use one, charge one. Label them “In Use” and “Charging” so you always know which is ready.

Store It Properly

Store your jump starter in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Avoid the trunk of your car, especially in summer. High heat accelerates battery degradation.

I keep mine in a tool drawer in my garage, where it stays around 65°F. I also keep the cables neatly coiled and the unit covered with a soft cloth to protect it from dust.

Use the Right Charger

Never use a non-DeWalt charger unless it’s specifically rated for your model. I once tried using a generic 12V adapter—it charged, but the jump starter’s safety system kept interrupting the process. Stick with OEM (original equipment manufacturer) chargers for reliability.

Monitor the LED Indicators

DeWalt jump starters have helpful LED lights that tell you the charging status:

• Red blinking: Charging (low battery)
• Yellow blinking: Mid-charging
• Green blinking: Nearly full
• Solid green: Fully charged
• Flashing red: Error (check manual)

Get familiar with these. If you see flashing red, unplug and let the unit cool down. Sometimes it just needs a reset.

Test It Occasionally

Even if you don’t need to jump-start a car, test your jump starter every few months. Turn it on, check the voltage, and make sure the clamps and lights work. This ensures it’s ready when you need it.

I tested mine last winter. The engine cranked right up, and the LED work light was bright. It was a small effort, but it gave me peace of mind.

Charging Comparison: DeWalt vs. Other Brands (Data Table)

How does DeWalt stack up against other popular jump starter brands in terms of charging time? Let’s compare based on average charging times for fully drained units:

Brand & Model	Battery Type	Charging Method	Avg. Charge Time (0–100%)	Notes
DeWalt DXAEJ14	Lithium-ion (built-in)	Wall or 12V car charger	4–5 hours	Includes fast-charge mode
DeWalt DXAEJ14-20V	20V Max (removable)	DeWalt battery charger	1.5–2.5 hours (battery only)	Swap batteries for instant charge
NOCO Boost Plus GB40	Lithium-ion (built-in)	Wall or 12V charger	3–4 hours	Faster charging, but smaller capacity
Jump-N-Carry JNC660	Lead-acid (built-in)	Wall charger only	24+ hours	Slowest; requires overnight charge
TACKLIFE T8	Lithium-ion (built-in)	Wall or 12V	5–6 hours	Good value, but slower
GOOLOO GP4000	Lithium-ion (built-in)	Wall or 12V	4–5 hours	Similar to DeWalt, but no 20V option

As you can see, DeWalt’s built-in models are competitive with other lithium-ion jump starters. But the 20V Max option is a standout—because you’re not charging the unit, you’re charging a battery, which is faster and more convenient.

The only real downside? Lead-acid models (like the JNC660) take forever to charge. If you’re comparing, stick with lithium-ion for faster, more reliable performance.

Final Thoughts: Be Prepared, Not Surprised

So, how long does a DeWalt jump starter take to charge? The answer is: it depends—but you can plan for it. Most built-in models take 4–6 hours, while 20V Max models let you swap in a fresh battery in seconds. Knowing your model, using the right charger, and maintaining good charging habits will keep your jump starter ready when you need it.

I’ll never forget the time my brother-in-law’s truck wouldn’t start at a remote campsite. We pulled out my DeWalt DXAEJ14—fully charged and ready. The engine roared to life in seconds. That moment reminded me why I keep it maintained and charged. It’s not just a tool; it’s peace of mind.

Remember: charge it regularly, store it properly, and test it occasionally. Don’t wait until you’re stranded to find out your jump starter is dead. With a little attention, your DeWalt will be there for you—every time.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does a DeWalt jump starter take to charge?

Most DeWalt jump starters take between 3 to 5 hours to fully charge when using the included charger. Charging time may vary slightly depending on the model and remaining battery level.

Can I use a regular car charger to charge my DeWalt jump starter?

No, it’s recommended to use only the charger provided with your DeWalt jump starter to ensure safe and efficient charging. Using incompatible chargers may damage the unit or reduce battery life.

Does the charging time differ between DeWalt jump starter models?

Yes, charging times can vary slightly between models due to differences in battery capacity and technology. Always refer to the user manual for your specific model to get accurate charging information.

How do I know when my DeWalt jump starter is fully charged?

Most DeWalt jump starters feature an LED indicator that turns green or stops blinking when charging is complete. Some models also include a digital display showing battery percentage for added clarity.

Can I overcharge my DeWalt jump starter if I leave it plugged in?

No, DeWalt jump starters are designed with built-in protection to prevent overcharging. Once fully charged, the unit will automatically stop drawing power, making it safe to leave connected.

What’s the best way to maintain charge on a DeWalt jump starter?

To maintain optimal performance, recharge your DeWalt jump starter every 3 to 6 months if not in regular use. Storing it in a cool, dry place also helps preserve battery health over time.