So, what is a Lead Acid battery?
The lead acid battery is the first type of rechargeable battery created and was invented in 1859 by Gaston Palnte, a French physicist. Since then, there have been many advancements and variations designed to be used in more specific applications.
Generally, Lead Acid batteries can be split into two main categories;
- Flooded lead acid batteries of which there are 3 types:
-Calcium maintenance free,
-Maintenance free lead acid deep cycle,
-Maintainable flooded lead acid (lead antimony)- these contain battery acid and require periodic distilled water top ups.
- AGM and gel batteries – these are sealed and are NOT to be watered .
As with any battery, you always want to make sure you get the right battery for the use it is intended. Speaking with someone with the right knowledge and expertise is always crucial. If you’re needing advice the guys at the Battery Warehouse are all highly knowledgeable and will be able to fit you with the right battery for your needs, just drop in, or give them a call here.
Why do I need to water my Maintainable Flooded Lead Acid Battery?
Just as water is essential to keep you healthy and well, the same can be said of your maintainable flooded lead acid battery. Like you, maintainable flooded lead acid batteries require periodic watering to keep functioning at their best (not too little and not too much). So, ignore those water levels at your own or your flooded lead acid battery’s peril. Now onto how to keep that battery appropriately watered….
Four simple steps to keep your maintainable flooded lead acid battery watered.
- Safety first! Make sure to wear suitable protective clothing, such as gloves and protective eyewear. Check the battery label for information on the battery and whether it can be opened and serviced, adhere to all warning labels (now double check you read that right). If in doubt give the guys a call.
- Monitor the battery fluid levels. An essential part of getting the most out of your flooded lead acid battery is making sure the correct battery fluid levels are maintained. You don’t want the levels to be too high or too low. How often you need to water your battery will depend on how old your battery is and how often you use it, for instance a battery that is used every day, may need to be watered every week, whereas a battery used only on the weekends, may only need to be watered once a month. Hot weather also has a bearing and will increase the need for watering.
- Ideally your battery should be charged when the indicator shows around 25% charge remaining. After the battery is fully charged (partially charging the battery could damage the battery, reducing its capacity and shortening its useful life), add just enough water to bring the water level about 10mils above the plates.
- Only used distilled water to top up your battery. Tap water contains minerals that are harmful to batteries. Distilled water is readily available, inexpensive and far cheaper than having to replace a failed battery!
That’s it, you’re done. By keeping on top of this maintenance you’ll maximise the productivity of your battery and reduce costs as your battery will last longer.
Need more advice? Feel free to drop into the Battery Warehouse, found here, or call us on 0800 228 748
