Regular testing and inspection will help to maximise battery life.
I'd say at least once a month.
Keep your battery clean & dry.
Check battery security - no good if its bouncing around.
Check all connections are good and not corroded.
You can add a thin layer of grease to the posts & connections, for added corrosion protection.
Inspect the case for warpage, this can indicate that has been overheated and/or overcharged.
Make sure electrolyte levels are correct, over the top of the plates but do not overfill.
Never top up with or add acid!
Keep the battery fully charged, sulphating is much worse if it is not fully charged or flat.
HEAT is a big killer, try and insulate the battery from the heat, have air duct feeding air to cool it if possible.
Simple rough % of charge: Firstly a good battery 100% charged should have an open circuit voltage 12.65 to 12.8+v if it is charged. If its fully charged and lower than 12.65 it's likely your battery is near its end.
Often the reading will be higher. Let the battery settle after charging before checking.
75% charged might be 12.4 to 12.5v
50% 12.20-12.30v
25% 12-12.10v
Anything under 12 is considered discharged.
Battery's generate explosive gases, keep ignition sources away, especially during and after charging.
Avoid causing sparks at terminals. I have seen them explode, it's not a happy shower.
I have a digital battery tester, happy to test your battery for free.
Hope that helps.
I'd say at least once a month.
Keep your battery clean & dry.
Check battery security - no good if its bouncing around.
Check all connections are good and not corroded.
You can add a thin layer of grease to the posts & connections, for added corrosion protection.
Inspect the case for warpage, this can indicate that has been overheated and/or overcharged.
Make sure electrolyte levels are correct, over the top of the plates but do not overfill.
Never top up with or add acid!
Keep the battery fully charged, sulphating is much worse if it is not fully charged or flat.
HEAT is a big killer, try and insulate the battery from the heat, have air duct feeding air to cool it if possible.
Simple rough % of charge: Firstly a good battery 100% charged should have an open circuit voltage 12.65 to 12.8+v if it is charged. If its fully charged and lower than 12.65 it's likely your battery is near its end.
Often the reading will be higher. Let the battery settle after charging before checking.
75% charged might be 12.4 to 12.5v
50% 12.20-12.30v
25% 12-12.10v
Anything under 12 is considered discharged.
Battery's generate explosive gases, keep ignition sources away, especially during and after charging.
Avoid causing sparks at terminals. I have seen them explode, it's not a happy shower.
I have a digital battery tester, happy to test your battery for free.
Hope that helps.
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