Tips to Prolong Your Lead-Acid Battery’s Lifespan

Video Summary:
Regular Charging
Avoid letting the battery discharge completely before recharging. Frequent deep discharges shorten its lifespan. Charge your battery as soon as possible after use.

Maintain Proper Water Levels
Check the electrolyte level regularly and top up with distilled water if necessary. Never use tap water, as it contains impurities that can damage the battery.

Avoid Overcharging
Use a charger with an automatic shutoff feature to prevent overcharging, which can cause overheating and damage the battery cells.

Store in a Cool, Dry Place
Heat accelerates chemical reactions in batteries, reducing their lifespan. Store your battery in a well-ventilated area away from direct sunlight and heat sources.

Clean the Terminals
Corroded terminals can affect performance. Regularly clean the terminals with a mixture of baking soda and water, and apply a light coating of petroleum jelly to prevent corrosion.

Use a Suitable Charger
Ensure your charger matches the battery's voltage and capacity specifications. Using the wrong charger can lead to undercharging or overcharging.

Avoid Deep Discharges
Do not let the battery's charge fall below 50% if possible. Deep discharges cause sulfation, a condition that permanently reduces battery capacity.

Perform Equalization Charges
For flooded lead-acid batteries, perform an equalization charge every 30 cycles or as recommended by the manufacturer to balance the charge in all cells.

Monitor Voltage and Health
Use a voltmeter or battery tester to monitor the battery's health and voltage regularly. This helps you identify and address potential issues early.

Use Proper Handling Practices
Avoid physical shocks, dropping, or tilting the battery, as these can cause internal damage or leaks. Always handle with care to ensure longevity.