5 tips & tricks for using and maintaining a battery
The way you use and maintain a battery is important for its service life. If properly maintained, a battery can last for up to six years or more. This saves a lot in replacement costs, but requires good use and maintenance. We’ve put together a top five tips and tricks on battery maintenance and day-to-day use.
Tip 1: Fully charge the battery before the first use
If you have just purchased a new battery, it is possible that it has never been fully charged to 100%. A new battery usually carries usable charge on delivery, but seldom the full capacity. It’s wise to charge it before you use it, to extend its lifespan, save money and be more environmentally friendly.
Don't have a charger for your batteries yet? Take a look at our battery charger assortment here.
Tip 2: Check your battery every three months with a battery tester
To make sure your batteries will function properly when you need them, it is good practice to check them with a battery tester every three months. Is the result below 12.5V? Then it is important that you charge it to full. You can find out more about the battery testers available at Kramp here. The table below shows what to do with batteries in your warehouse in any given situation.
In the article Everything you need to know about batteries you can read more about the state of charge of batteries. Of course, the proper functioning of a battery also depends on the maintenance of the vehicle or equipment to which it is connected. This includes the maintenance of the alternator, the starter motor and the mass. “Ground” is the connection of the negative pole to the chassis of the vehicle or installation.
Tip 3: Grease the battery terminals
It is important to grease the battery terminals with a grease such as Vaseline; otherwise, corrosion can occur as a reaction to the acids in the fluid of a battery. It may be useful to invest in a battery maintenance set like the one we sell at Kramp. Among other things, it contains a grease and brush for the battery poles, which you can use to clean and lubricate them.
Tip 4: Check the condition of your battery regularly
Regular battery checks are important, and particularly in the summer, as you will see below. What should you check?
- The condition of the poles and connections to the battery terminals
- The state of charge
- If the battery is not closed, adjust the position of the liquid (add distilled water if necessary). In summer, the water evaporates faster.
The general condition of your vehicle or machine is also important. When replacing the battery, it is important to check the starter motor, alternator and mass as well. Also, make sure the cables are in good conditions and that the connections are clean.
Tip 5: Ensure proper winter storage of the vehicle (and battery)
For winter storage, it is important to charge the battery properly first and then store the vehicle or battery in a dry and cool place. Make sure that the battery is stored frost-free. An uncharged battery may freeze.
Remember to recycle
All old and used batteries can be recycled. Disposing of your dead or faulty batteries responsibly is extremely important. Many garages, scrap metal merchants and household waste recycling centres provide collection points. Check your local authority website for guidance on battery recycling in your area.
Are you looking for more information?
Do you still have questions about battery maintenance and use, or even about finding the right battery? Please contact our product specialists or email us at knowledgecenter@kramp.com. You can also learn more about batteries on our webshop.
