Battery basicsCar batteries are usually lead-acid type called starting batteries. The technology is over 100 years old. This type of battery is made up of six cells each consisting of a lead and a lead oxide plate separated by a synthetic material. These galvanic cells are submerged into a solution of sulfuric acid and water called electrolyte. A chemical reaction between the plates produces electricity. A battery can fail for several reasons
- The lead on the plates can fall off and deposit at the bottom of the cells. This will cause them to short out. This is the primary cause of battery failure.
- The cells can short out due to the failure of the separator between the plates
- Corrosion can cause broken internal connections
- A low electrolyte level
- The battery was not used for long time and it was stored in a low or zero-charged state
Battery maintenance- Keep the cable connections clean and tight. Use a baking soda and water solution to clean them. Coat the battery posts with a small bead of silicone.
- Keep a battery fully charged in cold weather or it may freeze
- If your car won't start don't keep cranking until the battery is dead
- To prevent sulfation always fully charge a battery after heavy use. Once sulfation begins the battery life will be diminished.
- Put your battery on a charger if it is not going to be used for several weeks. Use a smart or trickle charger to prevent overcharging.
- If the battery is not maintenance free, meaning that you can add water to the cells, keep the cells topped off with distilled water. Never use tap water.
