How to maintain your batteries

 

1) Maintain water level.  If your battery has removable vent caps, you should regularly check the water level and add water when it is low.  Do not add acid as it may alter the way the chemical composition and cause the battery to fail more quickly.  You should add water whrn the lead plates of the battery are exposed.  To avoid damage, maintain the electrolyte level  slightly above the plates.

 

2) Keep terminals Clean.   Visually inspect the terminals and cables at least once a year, especially in hot temperatures, for signs of corrosion.  If dirty or corroded, clean the connections with a scraper and wire brush.  This will ensure a good connection and proper starting.

 

3) Keep case clean.  Keep the top of the battery clean of heavy dirt and oil with a cloth dampened by ammonia or a 50/50 solution of baking soda and water.  Then rinse with clear water and allow to thoroughly dry.

 

4) Keep battery charged.  If your vehicle is not driven weekly, it may be necessary to charge your battery before use.  Lack of use is hard on a battery, especially an automotive battery that is designed to be charged regularly by an alternator.  Any unused battery, regardless of its chemistry, will sekf-discharge over time and, if allowed to remain discharged, will undergo severe positive grid corrosion and battery failure.

 

5) Keep the rest of your vehicle or machine's components properly operating.  A well run machine will increase the longevity of each component.

 

Before storing your battery, you should:

 

1.  Clean the battery case and terminals with baking soda and water.

 

2.  Check the water level and add water if needed.

 

3.  Test your battery with a hydrometer and/or voltmeter to ensure the battery is fully charged.

 

4.  If needed charge your battery.  batteries stored in a discharged state are susceptible to freezing, sulfation and an increased rate of discharge.  A fully charged battery will not freeze unless the temperature reaches approximately 80 degrees below zero.  But if discharged, it can freeze at 32 degrees farenhiet.

 

5.  Simply starting your car and letting it idle does NOT sufficiently cahrge the battery.  To fully discharge a battery with your alternator, the vehicle must be driven.  Highway driving provides the best charge.  However, we recommend that you use a battery charger, instead of relying on your car's alternator, to fully discharged battery.

 

Store your battery in a dry, cool, well ventilated area-the collor the better without going below 32 degrees farenheit and out of reach of children and pets.  Check the water level and state of charge every 45-60 days.  If needed, add distilled water and charge.