In both games, Health Chargers are scattered throughout areas, and are placed around for the convenience of staff in high-risk areas, such as in areas with dangerous creatures or machinery. The HEV charger is still the primary source of power, due to batteries being comparatively uncommon. Medkits are also considerably more common in Wasteland areas outside of Combine control, whereas chargers are common within City 17. In Half-Life 2, however, medkits have become the primary healing item, giving 25 health points.
Medkits and batteries do not provide enough health and armor to be an effective long-term source of healing and protection. In Half-Life, health and HEV chargers are the primary source of health and power throughout the game. In Half-Life 2 and Half-Life: Source they will also stop when the player reaches full health or power. Whilst being used, their power drains and eventually they will stop healing or charging. The chargers can be used by staying near them and pressing the USE key.
