Black & Decker Charger, Rapid Charge

The Black & Decker Rapid Charger (model LCS36) has been a game-changer in my workshop. This charger is specifically designed to power up 36V or 40V MAX batteries in under two hours, and it has lived up to its promise. The charger is compatible with all BLACK+DECKER 36V MAX or 40V MAX lithium-ion tools, making it a versatile addition to my collection.

Performance and Charging Speed

One of the standout features of this charger is its speed. The LCS36 can charge the LBX36 battery in just one hour, the LBXR36 in 1.5 hours, and the LBXR2036 in two hours. For someone who relies heavily on cordless tools, this rapid charging capability is invaluable. I use a cordless battery-operated lawn mower that requires three batteries to complete my lawn, and the ability to recharge each battery in just 1.5 hours is, frankly, awesome. It significantly reduces downtime and allows me to get back to work quickly.

Design and Build Quality

The charger has a compact design with dimensions of 2.9 inches in height, 8.5 inches in length, and 6.1 inches in width. Weighing only 1.4 pounds, it’s lightweight and easy to store. The build quality feels robust, and the tight lock-in mechanism ensures that the battery stays securely in place while charging. This is a notable improvement over some of the original chargers that came with my weed wacker and hedge trimmer, which often had issues with holding the battery tightly.

Usability and Features

The LCS36 comes with a charge indication light that shows the battery status. While this feature is useful, I did find the indicator light to be barely visible, especially in bright daylight. This is a minor issue but one that could be improved for better usability. Despite this, the charger performs well, and the fast charging times more than make up for this slight inconvenience.

Compatibility and Versatility

This charger’s compatibility with both 36V and 40V MAX batteries makes it incredibly versatile. I have a range of BLACK+DECKER tools, and not having to switch between different chargers for different tools simplifies my workflow. The charger is corded and uses electricity as its power source, which is standard but effective.

Warranty and Customer Support

One of the reassuring aspects of this charger is the 3-year limited warranty. BLACK+DECKER is known for its dependable products and good customer service, and this charger is no exception. Knowing that the product is backed by a solid warranty gives me confidence in its durability and longevity.

Value for Money

The LCS36 is a bit on the pricier side if you purchase it from certain retailers, but I found that shopping around, especially on sites like CPO, can yield better deals. Given its performance and the time it saves, I consider it worth every penny. It’s a small investment that pays off in increased productivity and reduced downtime.

Real-World Application

In practical terms, this charger has been indispensable for my outdoor projects. Whether it’s mowing the lawn, trimming hedges, or using my cordless blower, the quick turnaround time for battery charging keeps me on schedule. The small footprint of the charger also means it doesn’t take up much space in my already crowded workshop.

Final Thoughts

The Black & Decker Rapid Charger (LCS36) is a reliable and efficient tool that delivers on its promises. Its fast charging times, robust build quality, and compatibility with a range of batteries make it a must-have for anyone using BLACK+DECKER cordless tools. While there are minor issues like the barely visible indicator light, these are outweighed by the charger’s overall performance and the convenience it offers.

Recommendation

I wholeheartedly recommend the Black & Decker Rapid Charger. It’s a high-performing, versatile, and reliable tool that significantly enhances productivity by reducing battery downtime. Whether you’re a professional landscaper or a DIY enthusiast, this charger is a worthwhile investment that will keep your tools ready for action.

In summary, the LCS36 stands out as a top-notch charger that lives up to the high standards set by BLACK+DECKER. Its performance, design, and usability make it a valuable addition to any workshop. If you’re in the market for a rapid charger that won’t let you down, this is the one to get.