how long will a car battery take to charge?

[sefton]

I have just bought an automatic battery charger from halfords, how long will it take to charge a car battery?

I've also topped up the distilled water in the battery, should I leave the plugs out while I charge?

Thanks

Craig.

[MikePimlott]

Hi Craig,
Glad to hear youve finally got all your bits. I usually put my car battery on over night on trickle charge, But if its very low it may take a bit longer. Yes i would leave the vents open when charging or it might spit acid out if theres a valve on the side.

[sefton]

Just a bit paraniod about setting the bloody house on fire!

Yeah got the kit now, just need a soldering iron and a few other bits!

Craig.

[Oscar]

I thought you were supposed to top the electrolyte only AFTER charging?

[sefton]

the last charger I had said fill before!

[MikePimlott]

Im pretty sure you top them up before and then check them again before you screw the vents back shut after charging.