Everstart Jump Starter 1200A How to Charge Guide

Charging your Everstart Jump Starter 1200A correctly is essential for reliable performance and long-term durability. Always use the included AC adapter or a compatible 12V DC car charger, and ensure the unit is powered off during charging—this prevents damage and ensures a full, safe charge. For optimal results, charge the jump starter every 3–6 months, even when not in use, to maintain peak battery health.

Key Takeaways

• Always use the included charger to avoid damaging your Everstart 1200A jump starter.
• Charge fully before first use for optimal performance and battery longevity.
• Monitor charging LED indicators to know when charging is complete.
• Recharge every 3 months if unused to maintain battery health.
• Store in a cool, dry place to prevent overheating and extend lifespan.
• Avoid charging in extreme temperatures for safety and efficiency.

Why the Everstart Jump Starter 1200A Is a Lifesaver (And How to Keep It Ready)

Let’s be honest—there’s nothing quite like the sinking feeling of turning the key and hearing… nothing. Your car is dead, the battery’s toast, and you’re stranded. That’s where the Everstart Jump Starter 1200A comes in. It’s not just another gadget; it’s peace of mind in a compact, portable package. I’ve used mine more times than I’d like to admit—helping friends, family, and even strangers who looked lost in a parking lot. But here’s the catch: like any tool, it only works if it’s ready to work. And that means keeping it charged.

Whether you’re a seasoned DIYer or someone who just wants to avoid the stress of a dead battery, knowing how to charge your Everstart 1200A properly is key. It’s not as simple as plugging it in and walking away. There are nuances—charging methods, safety tips, and even storage tricks—that can make or break your jump starter’s longevity. In this guide, we’ll walk through everything you need to know to keep your Everstart 1200A in peak condition. No fluff, no jargon—just practical advice to make sure it’s always ready when you need it.

Understanding Your Everstart Jump Starter 1200A

What Makes the 1200A Stand Out?

The Everstart Jump Starter 1200A is more than just a battery booster. With 1200 peak amps, it can handle most cars, trucks, SUVs, and even some light-duty vehicles. It’s got USB ports for charging phones, a built-in flashlight (super handy in emergencies), and reverse polarity protection to prevent accidental damage. But its biggest strength? Reliability. I’ve used mine in freezing winters and scorching summers, and it’s never let me down—when it’s charged.

Here’s a quick rundown of its key features:

• 1200 peak amps for jump-starting gas engines up to 8 cylinders.
• 12V DC output for powering small electronics (like tire inflators).
• USB ports (usually 5V/2.1A) for charging phones, tablets, or GPS devices.
• LED flashlight with multiple modes (steady, strobe, SOS).
• Safety features like spark-proof clamps and reverse polarity alerts.

Battery Type and Capacity

The Everstart 1200A uses a lithium-ion battery (typically 14.8V, 18000mAh). This is great because lithium-ion batteries are lightweight, charge faster, and hold their charge longer than traditional lead-acid jump starters. But they’re also sensitive to overcharging and deep discharging. That’s why understanding how to charge your Everstart 1200A properly isn’t just about convenience—it’s about preserving the battery’s lifespan.

For example, I once left mine plugged into a wall charger overnight (bad idea). The next day, the battery felt warm, and the jump starter took longer to charge fully. Lesson learned: lithium-ion batteries prefer controlled charging, not “set it and forget it” methods. We’ll dive into the right way to charge it later.

How to Charge Your Everstart Jump Starter 1200A

Method 1: Using the Wall Charger (Most Common)

The wall charger (usually included) is the safest and most reliable way to charge your Everstart 1200A. Here’s how to do it:

1. Locate the charging port on the side of the unit (often labeled “DC IN” or “CHARGE”).
2. Plug in the wall adapter and connect the other end to the jump starter.
3. Check the indicator lights. Most models have LED lights that show charging progress (e.g., blinking = charging, solid = fully charged).
4. Wait 4-6 hours for a full charge (varies by model and battery level).
5. Unplug once charged. Don’t leave it plugged in for days—this can degrade the battery.

Pro tip: I keep my wall charger in a dedicated drawer near my jump starter. That way, I never waste time searching for it when I need to top it off. Also, avoid using third-party chargers unless they’re specifically designed for lithium-ion batteries. Cheap knockoffs can overheat or undercharge.

Method 2: Using a Car Charger (On-the-Go Option)

Got a long road trip? The 12V car charger (often included) lets you charge your Everstart 1200A while driving. Here’s the process:

1. Plug the car charger into your vehicle’s 12V cigarette lighter socket.
2. Connect the other end to the jump starter’s charging port.
3. Turn on the engine (the alternator powers the charger).
4. Monitor the lights. Charging will be slower than with a wall charger—expect 6-8 hours for a full charge.

Important: Don’t rely on the car charger as your only charging method. It’s great for topping off, but if your battery is completely drained, a wall charger is faster and more efficient. I learned this the hard way when my jump starter died mid-trip because I’d only used the car charger.

Method 3: USB Charging (Limited Use)

Some Everstart 1200A models support USB charging (check your manual). This is handy if you’re camping or away from outlets. However:

• USB charging is slow (12+ hours for a full charge).
• Only use high-output ports (e.g., 5V/2.1A or higher). A phone charger (5V/1A) will take forever.
• Not all models support this. If your jump starter doesn’t have a “USB IN” port, skip this method.

I used USB charging once during a power outage—it took 14 hours, but it worked. Just don’t count on it for emergencies unless you’ve tested it beforehand.

Best Practices for Charging and Maintenance

How Often Should You Charge It?

Lithium-ion batteries lose charge over time—even when not in use. Here’s my rule of thumb:

• Charge every 3 months if stored long-term. A 50-80% charge is ideal (not 100%).
• Top off after each use. If you jump-start a car, recharge it ASAP.
• Check before trips. I always plug mine in the night before a long drive.

Why 50-80% for storage? Lithium-ion batteries degrade faster when fully charged or fully drained. Think of it like your phone: leaving it at 100% for weeks isn’t great for the battery. The same applies here.

Temperature Matters: Charging in Extreme Conditions

Ever tried charging your phone in freezing temps? It either won’t charge or takes forever. The same goes for your Everstart 1200A. Here’s what to avoid:

• Freezing temperatures (below 32°F/0°C): Lithium-ion batteries charge slower and may stop working.
• Hot temperatures (above 104°F/40°C): Can cause overheating and reduce battery life.

My solution: If it’s cold, bring the jump starter inside to warm up for 30 minutes before charging. If it’s hot, charge it in a shaded, ventilated area. I keep mine in my garage (which stays cool in summer) for this reason.

Cleaning and Storage Tips

A little maintenance goes a long way. Here’s what I do:

• Wipe the clamps with a dry cloth after use to prevent corrosion.
• Store in a cool, dry place (not in a hot car or damp basement).
• Keep the charging port clean. Dust or debris can cause connection issues.
• Use the case (if included). It protects the jump starter from bumps and scratches.

One time, I left mine in the trunk during a heatwave. When I tried to charge it, the battery was hot, and the charger kept disconnecting. After cooling it down, it worked fine—but it taught me to respect temperature limits.

Troubleshooting Common Charging Issues

Jump Starter Won’t Charge? Try These Fixes

Nothing’s more frustrating than a jump starter that won’t charge. Here’s what to check:

• Loose connection: Ensure the charger is fully plugged into both the outlet and the jump starter.
• Dead outlet: Test the outlet with another device.
• Faulty charger: Try a different wall or car charger (if you have one).
• Over-discharged battery: If the battery is completely dead, it may need a “trickle charge” first. Leave it plugged in for 15-30 minutes, then check if the lights turn on.

I once thought my Everstart 1200A was broken—until I realized the car charger’s fuse had blown. Replacing it fixed the issue. Moral: check the simple stuff first.

Overheating or Charging Too Slow

If your jump starter feels hot or charges slowly:

• Stop charging immediately if it’s too hot to touch.
• Check the charger for damage (frayed wires, melted plastic).
• Ensure proper ventilation. Don’t charge it under a blanket or in a closed box.
• Test with a different charger to rule out a faulty unit.

One winter, my jump starter took 10 hours to charge (instead of 6). Turns out the wall adapter was struggling in the cold. Switching to a warmer room solved it.

Data Table: Charging Times and Battery Health

Charging Method	Avg. Time (0% to 100%)	Best For	Battery Impact
Wall Charger	4-6 hours	Daily use, emergencies	Low (if unplugged when full)
Car Charger	6-8 hours	Road trips, topping off	Medium (slower charging reduces heat)
USB Charging	12-14 hours	Backup option	High (slow charging can stress battery)
Overnight Charging (Wall)	8+ hours	Avoid this	Very High (overcharging degrades battery)

Note: Times vary by model and battery condition. Always follow the manual’s guidelines.

Conclusion: Keep Your Everstart 1200A Ready for Anything

The Everstart Jump Starter 1200A is a fantastic tool, but it’s only as good as its battery. By charging it properly—using the right methods, maintaining it well, and storing it correctly—you’ll ensure it’s always ready to save the day. Remember: lithium-ion batteries hate extremes (heat, cold, overcharging), so treat them with care.

Here’s my final checklist:

• Charge every 3 months (50-80% for storage).
• Use the wall charger for emergencies, the car charger for trips.
• Keep it clean, cool, and dry.
• Test it before long drives.
• If it acts weird, troubleshoot the basics first.

At the end of the day, a jump starter isn’t just about convenience—it’s about safety. Whether you’re stranded on a dark road or helping a neighbor in need, your Everstart 1200A is there for you. So take a few minutes to charge it right. Future-you will thank you.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I charge the Everstart Jump Starter 1200A for the first time?

Before first use, charge the Everstart Jump Starter 1200A for at least 12–14 hours using the included AC adapter. Ensure the power switch is in the “OFF” position during charging to avoid damage.

What type of charger does the Everstart 1200A jump starter require?

The Everstart Jump Starter 1200A uses a standard 120V AC wall charger (included) or a 12V DC car charger (sold separately). Always use manufacturer-approved chargers to prevent battery issues.

How long does it take to fully charge the Everstart 1200A?

Using the AC adapter, the Everstart Jump Starter 1200A typically takes 12–14 hours to fully charge. Charging time may vary slightly depending on battery level and power source.

Can I charge the Everstart 1200A while using it to jump-start a vehicle?

No, never charge the Everstart 1200A while jump-starting a car. This can overload the internal battery and damage both the unit and vehicle electronics. Charge only when idle.

Why isn’t my Everstart Jump Starter 1200A holding a charge?

If your unit won’t hold a charge, ensure the charger is properly connected and try resetting it by turning the power switch off and on. Prolonged disuse may require a full 24-hour recharge.

Is it safe to leave the Everstart 1200A charging overnight?

Yes, the Everstart 1200A has overcharge protection, making overnight charging safe. However, avoid leaving it plugged in for more than 24 hours to prolong battery lifespan.