Battery Tender
A battery tender, in comparison to a trickle charger, charges a car battery without continuously feeding current when the battery reaches a full charge. A built in microprocessor monitors the battery's charge/depletion state and adapt the charging accordingly to either actively charge or float/maintain. This feature allows you to be able to plug the tender and "forget it" throughout the storage period as the microprocessor does the monitoring for you. Some battery tenders (such as the CTEK linked below) have the added benefit of reconditioning older batteries through their multistage charging process.
[Note: I have used the charger linked below on my personal vehicle for the past 4 years during Wisconsin winters, lasting storage periods of 5-6 months at a time, November 1st to April 15th]. There are less expensive options or pricier options that may have greater capability. Please do further research the topic to find the best fit for your vehicle / particular needs.
[Note: I have used the charger linked below on my personal vehicle for the past 4 years during Wisconsin winters, lasting storage periods of 5-6 months at a time, November 1st to April 15th]. There are less expensive options or pricier options that may have greater capability. Please do further research the topic to find the best fit for your vehicle / particular needs.