4 Keys Reasons Why Battery Watering Makes a Difference
Fluid levels in your lead acid battery are vital and require you to add more water regularly to keep them at safe levels. However, under watering or over-watering can damage your battery; hence you should follow guidelines to add water moderately. Ensure you wear protective equipment like gloves and goggles when handling a battery. Also, check whether your battery requires regular watering service or it’s a maintenance-free battery. Depending on the manufacturer, check the manual on how often your battery should get replenished with more water.
Improve the performance of the battery
Water is very crucial in balancing the electrochemical equation on your battery, thus preventing corrosion and sulphation. Most batteries have a water level indicator that allows you to check if the water level is good. Low water levels destabilize the electrolyte, which causes the cell to become very acidic. When the battery plates become sulphated, they can hinder the flow of current through the electrolyte.
Increases the battery longevity
Never leave your battery out in extreme weather, as this can destroy it. You can insulate it using a battery insulation kit given by the manufacturer. Use the recommended battery charger to serve you when the car is not in use for a long time. Ensure your car battery is well secured from vibrations, as this can cause short circuits. Always keep the battery terminals dry and clean, and make sure to check them at least every month.
Reduces labor and maintenance
Depending on the manufacturer, batteries have a different shelf life. Ensuring you follow the proper charging and watering guidelines will increase the battery’s life span up to two years, thus cutting down on replacement costs. Always buy quality batteries for your specific need. Heavy-duty vehicles require you to get a superior quality battery that requires minimal maintenance. Always choose a battery that meets the demand of your car specified for the model and make.
Knowing exactly when the battery needs a refill
It would be best if you watered your battery only after it’s fully charged. At this time, the battery’s water level is optimal and should be topped. Watering at the wrong time can cause the acid level to come up and boil over when the battery is put to charge. When charging the battery, the level of electrolytes rises overflow of the sulphuric acid. Watering the battery after charging protects it from getting acid-related damage and overheating.
Likewise, only use distilled water as tap water contains many minerals that can destroy your battery. The water should have a pH of between 5 and 7. Always add water to cover the plastic element protector below the battery’s top, making sure to leave enough space for gassing at the end of charging.
How do you ensure your battery is adequately watered?
If you have several vehicles, ensure you assign one person the task of watering the batteries. This prevents cases of over-watering or forgetting to water the battery. Today, there are mobile phone apps that can remind you to check your battery. This will ensure you water it only when necessary. Also, ensure you include watering service in your battery maintenance schedule every month. A battery watering system is a good option for filling your car batteries faster, reliably, and safely than manual watering.
