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Together with the alternator, the car battery is one of the most important parts of a vehicles electrical system. The battery provides the power required in running the automobiles different electronics and devices when the engine is turned off. It also administers the alternators voltage regulator when the engine is running and ensures the regulators proper functionality.
Keeping the car battery charged is extremely important in ensuring the automobiles proper function. A flat battery obviously means the vehicle wont start, necessitating the use of a car battery charger, or alternatively, forcing the alternator to overexert itself in charging the car battery.
There are three ways to charge a car battery: the cars alternator, an external car battery charger, and a jump starter. Unlike the first two, jump starters only give the battery a temporary boost in power, usually only enough so the engine can start. The power consumed by everyday car activities like listening to the radio or switching the overhead lights on will be replenished by the alternator. When youre driving, any power that isnt used by the vehicles many components and accessories are diverted to the battery. Conversely, when the demand outstrips supply, like when youre waiting at a stop light, the battery releases the power necessary to run the lights, radio, charger, and other accessories.
Car batteries, like people, only have a limited lifespan. And like people, the batterys lifespan is dependent on many factors, chief of which is how well you take care for your battery. Other factors affecting battery lifespan are the weather, the type of automobile driven, and driving habits. Car batteries require regular maintenance if you dont want your vehicle failing to start when you need it the most. Its essential to know a few basic maintenance tips so you can be assured of a good start every single time.
1 - KEEP THE BATTERY CLEAN
Keeping the battery terminals clean is one of the simplest tasks you can do to ensure good battery condition. Inspect the battery and the terminals on a monthly basis. Check for any buildup of dirt or corrosion.
Brush off dirt from the terminals with a wire brush at least every three months. Dirt jammed between the terminals and the connectors can interrupt the power flowing in and out. Also make sure that the terminals are tight.
For corrosion, you can pour softdrinks or anti-corrosion paste on the corroded areas of the battery terminals. The acid will melt the corrosion away, making the terminals clean again. Use a slightly damp rag to clean up after.
2 - DISCONNECT THE BATTERY WHEN NOT IN USE
If youre going to leave the automobile idle for more than two weeks, disconnect the connector from the negative terminal to prevent a gradual loss of charge. Passive accessories like the clock still consume power even if the car is turned off. Dont forget to tuck the connector away from the car battery.
3 - GO ON BATTERY DRIVES
Going on frequent short trips can drastically lessen your batterys lifespan. Driving for half an hour at least twice a week ensures the alternator recharges the car battery. You dont have to have a destination, just go on a pleasure cruise around the neighborhood.
4 - TURN OFF EVERYTHING BEFORE STARTING
Turn off all car accessories such as the headlights, radio, and seat warmers before turning on the ignition. Car batteries are not designed to power car accessories while the car is turned off. Instead, they are meant to provide the burst of power necessary to successfully ignite the engine. Prolonged use of the car battery to power accessories can shorten its working life.
5 - KEEP THE BATTERY SECURE
Always make sure the car battery is secure in its place. All the driving and moving can shake the battery and the connectors loose if not properly secured, possibly causing a short circuit. Not only you will be ruining the car battery, youll also be endangering yourself.
6 - KEEP THE BATTERY CHARGED
The alternator isnt enough to fully charge the car battery, and the battery constantly drains even if the vehicle is off. Use a car battery charger to fully replenish the batterys charge at least once a week. Regular charging ensures the battery is at its optimum charge level, even if youre going on frequent short trips or leaving the car unused for a long time.
7 - KEEP IT WATERED
Always check the car batterys water level with a hydrometer. While the general rule is to keep electricity away from water and moisture, car batteries require water to maintain the correct equilibrium required for a proper charge. If the water level is a bit low, replenish the supply with distilled water, and only distilled water.
