The combined input of our panel of electronics manufacturers gave us this list of important tips for battery maintenance.
• Keep batteries at or near 100% state of charge and limit the depth of discharge to be no greater than 30%.
• Examine the entire starting/charging system. Too often fleets may change battery types or technologies without ensuring the alternator is correctly sized for the battery technology used. Changing one part of the system without examining all parts of the system will eventually cause other problems.
• Test the batteries individually
to ensure they are properly charged.
• Technicians should conduct voltage drop testing of the
starting/charging system as part of their periodic maintenance routine. This will help to identify potential issues before they impact operations.
• Charge batteries regularly and ensure they are mounted securely and safely.
• Keep batteries level at all times. Acid spills are extremely dangerous.
• Batteries generate hydrogen gas, which is highly flammable. Keep cigarettes, sparks, flames and other ignition sources away. If ignited by a spark or flame the gas could explode.
• When working around batteries always use proper safety protection, including eye protection.
• When removing a battery from a vehicle, always remove the ground cable first (usually the negative is the ground). This prevents accidental grounding of the tools, which can cause damages to the vehicle, battery and/or yourself.
• When handling a battery, always make sure the terminals are clean. Use a wire brush, steel wool or sandpaper to shine the terminal post and cable connection inside.
• Batteries should be stored in a cool dry place, avoiding areas where freezing temperatures are expected and away from direct exposure to heat sources such as radiators or heaters. Also, batteries should always be recharged prior to putting them back into service.
• Don’t leave batteries uncharged for long periods of time.
• Avoid connecting or disconnecting live circuits.
• Don’t add water or equalize AGM batteries.
