The ‘Always Be Charging’ (ABC) rule is a guideline some EV owners follow, especially those who work from home, aiming to keep their vehicle charged regularly. However, opinions on this rule vary, especially regarding battery health, charging frequency, and the 12V battery maintenance. Some owners prefer charging daily to 80-85%, while others charge less frequently. There’s debate on whether charging to 100% regularly is beneficial. Also, many users pointed out that leaving the car plugged in helps maintain the 12V battery, which can deplete if left unplugged for long periods.
I work from home and typically only charge on the weekend. I charge from 80% to 40% during the week and plug in again on Friday night. The 12V battery has been fine, though I drive occasionally. My concern is that if the car is unplugged and not driven, the 12V could deplete.
@Cary
When plugged in, the 12V charges as long as the car is charging. Once it hits the 80% limit, the 12V isn’t getting any more power unless it drops too low.
Adrian said:
@Cary
When plugged in, the 12V charges as long as the car is charging. Once it hits the 80% limit, the 12V isn’t getting any more power unless it drops too low.
I used to charge with 120V to keep the 12V charging longer. The car initiates 12V charging if it falls below a certain level, even when plugged in.
I don’t always follow the ABC rule unless it’s very cold. Otherwise, I charge when I need to and often leave it unplugged for days.
I’m always plugged in, but I don’t always charge. I set the home charge level to 70% and the work charge level to 95%. This helps me use free charging at work without worrying about battery depletion on long drives.
Battery health advice often comes from non-experts online. We’re all just trying to make the best of it.
Stormy said:
Battery health advice often comes from non-experts online. We’re all just trying to make the best of it.
If battery health was such a major issue, no one would buy EVs. It’s tough enough getting people to use chargers correctly.
I charge to 80% every night, but if I have a long drive planned, I charge to 100%.
I work from home and charge a few times a week, usually at a super off-peak time. I used to think charging would be a hassle, but now I prefer it over going to a gas station.
I charge to 80% and stay plugged in for pre-conditioning. This allows the heat or AC to use wall power instead of the battery.
I think the ABC rule is unnecessary. Keeping the charge at 50% is optimal for battery health, so charging up to 80% is a better approach.
Quirin said:
I think the ABC rule is unnecessary. Keeping the charge at 50% is optimal for battery health, so charging up to 80% is a better approach.
Smaller cycles are better for battery health. It’s better to keep the charge around 50% and charge higher only when needed for range.
I regularly charge to 100% in cold weather but avoid leaving it at full charge if I’m not driving it. Otherwise, it stays between 50-80%.
If the car isn’t used for a while, I make sure to start it and charge it up to 80%. Prolonged inactivity can be detrimental to the battery.
I keep my car plugged in at home. In colder climates, it’s essential to keep it plugged in to avoid battery degradation. The 12V battery also charges only when plugged in or when driving.
I charge once or twice a week to 90%. My commute is short, so this works for me.
Charging every night seems unnecessary. It makes more sense to charge when needed, rather than keeping it plugged in all the time.
Kase said:
Charging every night seems unnecessary. It makes more sense to charge when needed, rather than keeping it plugged in all the time.
Smaller, more frequent charges are better for the battery, especially if you’re using off-peak rates.