Originally Posted by wmgardner
Ok, so it looks as though SLA batteries can be overcharged. This can easily be solved by using a common timer...but how do you know how charged the battery really is? How can I tell how long to even set the timer for?
If you have a "smart charger," that is, a charger that knows when the battery is charged and will cut down to a "trickle charge" from full charge, you can leave it plugged in overnight, or all day. A good smart charger will have indicator lights that signal when the battery is charged and is now in "trickle charge" mode.
I forgot to mention another option to cut back on the size of your battery (or increase your run-time, if desired.) There are "energy saver" bulbs available (I use one) that allow you to get more light per watt, much like those bulbs you see for your home that draw 14 watts but put out the equivalent of 60 watts of light. Mine supposedly draws 20W but puts out ~ 35W.
In addition, the focus of the beam can make a lower wattage light seem brighter. You sacrifice some peripheral visibility, but as long as you can see what's in front of you, that's what's important. On the other hand, too wide a beam sacrifices precious visibility where you need it most.
I just about drain my battery on the way to work (one hour,) then I spend the next 7 hours recharging. I will probably go with a 5 AH eventually (like I used to have) because I like having "spare" battery power in case I need it unexpectedly.