Regular Inspection and Maintenance
Regular testing and inspection will help to maximise battery
life. A routine inspection at least once a month is recommended to maintain
optimum performance.
Battery testing should form part of a regular maintenance
routine. Pre-emptive battery replacement can help eliminate many of the costs
and problems associated with a flat battery.
Voltage and Specific Gravity
Voltage (V) and Specific Gravity (SG) are measurements used
to determine a battery’s state of charge. Voltage is a quick and easy way of
measuring charge levels and is measured by connecting either a multi-meter or
voltmeter and obtaining a DC reading. Always connect the multi-meter parallel
to the circuit being tested, observing polarity; otherwise the result will be
negative.
Hydrometers measure the Specific Gravity of the electrolyte
and indicate the density of electrolyte compared to water. As this requires
access to acid reservoirs, it is only suitable for use with maintainable
batteries.
Always read the manufacturer’s instructions before attempting
to charge a battery and ensure you have a good quality Australian-approved
battery charger. The battery type and its internal components will determine
which type of charger is required.
Important Note:
Avoid quick charging as this only charges the surface of the
battery plates and can increase the chance of overheating, leading to permanent
battery damage.
Be aware of all safety precautions that should be observed
during the charging operation before attempting to charge a battery.
1. Turn the charger off before attaching, rocking or removing
the terminal clamps.
2. Keep open flames and sparks away from the battery.
3. Keep vent caps in place.
4. Charge in well ventilated area.
5. Follow the battery charger manufacturer’s instructions to
avoid overheating.
As batteries age they gradually lose their capacity as their
function is performed. The constant charge and discharge eventually leads to
failure. Components corrode over time, electrical shorts occur and vibration
causes damage; all eventually causing failure. Overcharging and undercharging
of a battery will also have a bearing on battery life.
·
Vibration
can reduce a battery’s life. Always use an approved battery clamp to limit
vibration. Century batteries are built tough, using robust internal components
to resist damage through abrasion and puncture from vehicle vibration.
·
Many
alleged ‘dead batteries’ are merely flat batteries. Drivers simply leave lights
on or can have faulty voltage regulators.
·
Ensure
your battery is properly tested before replacing a battery.
·
It’s
impossible to know exactly when a battery might fail. A slow starting engine is
sometimes an indication.
·
Old
batteries can give trouble in colder weather.
·
Equally,
if an engine area becomes overheated in very hot weather and the battery is
under strain from air conditioners it may fail. Regular battery checks are
always advised.
