1. Choose a Suitable Location:
Selecting an appropriate location to store car batteries is crucial. A secure place, such as your garage floor, is ideal. Storing car batteries directly on a concrete floor is generally acceptable. However, it’s important to note that dust settling on the battery’s surface can lead to slight discharge. To prevent this, cover the battery when leaving it unattended for extended periods.
You can also consider using a battery tray or a car battery storage container, which is a vented plastic box designed specifically for battery storage.
Additionally, ensure that the chosen storage spot is safe in the event of an earthquake or flood. Avoid placing any scrap metals directly above the area where the battery is stored.
Temperature plays a significant role in battery storage. It’s best to store the battery in a shaded area, if possible, maintaining an environment with a temperature around 15°C. Extreme temperatures can accelerate battery discharge.
2. Properly Position the Battery
When storing your car battery, it is essential to keep it in an upright position at all times. Avoid placing the battery on its sides or keeping it upside down. By maintaining an upright position, you prevent potential damage, leakage, and ensure the battery’s performance remains intact.
3. Inspecting after Disconnecting
- Remove the car batteries from the vehicle and, as mentioned earlier, securely place them in a designated area.
- Prioritize disconnecting the negative cable first, followed by the positive cable. When reconnecting the battery to your car, reverse the order. This practice enhances safety, and it is advisable to wear protective gloves during this process.
- If your battery terminals appear greasy, clean them, and remove any dirt on the top surface of the battery.
- Proceed to check the acid levels of the battery. Remove a knob and inspect the levels. If they are low, add some water, and remember to clean the area after sealing the knob.
- Lastly, ensure that there are no leaks by conducting a thorough inspection.
4. Charge your device before storing it
If a battery is left unused for an extended period of time, it undergoes a process called sulfation, where sulfate ions accumulate on the plates and reduce the battery’s efficiency. Even if you take it to a shop and have it charged, it won’t fully regain its efficiency.
To prevent this, it is important to charge your battery before storing it.
One method to charge the battery is by using jumper cables and an inverter. Connect the positive end of the inverter to the negative end of the battery using the jumper cable, and vice versa for the positive end of the battery and the negative end of the inverter. It is crucial to follow this order.
Attach a multimeter to the battery and check the voltage. A reading of 13.4 volts is ideal in this case. This is how you can keep your car battery charged when it is not in use.
Attention
Planning to store your car battery for an extended period? Interested in winter car battery storage tips?
It’s not advisable to leave batteries idle for long periods. If possible, charge them every week and use them for at least half an hour.
When storing the battery, avoid placing it directly on a concrete floor, as cooler temperatures can lead to easy discharge. Instead, consider keeping it in a storage closet during winter months.
If storing in a garage is necessary, use a wooden plank (such as a 2×4 or 3/4″ thick plywood) underneath the battery.
Using a battery tender is highly recommended. These small chargers help maintain the battery’s charge level.
For connecting the battery tender, it’s advisable to use wiring that allows for easy connection and disconnection, rather than relying on alligator clips.
FAQS
How can I preserve my car battery when it’s not in use?
To preserve your car battery, store it in a cool (around 15°C) and dry room, or place it inside a container box while ensuring it is fully charged. If necessary, you can attach a battery tender to maintain its charge.
How long can a car battery be stored?
When properly maintained, a car battery can be stored for up to 2 years.
Where should I store old car batteries?
Old car batteries should be taken to an authorized recycling facility. However, before disposal, they can be stored in a secure manner in a cold and dry location.
Is it safe to store a car battery on its side?
No, it is not recommended to store a car battery on its side.
Can I store a car battery in my trunk?
No, it is unsafe to store a car battery in your trunk.
How long will a car battery last in storage?
A car battery can last up to 2 years when stored correctly.
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