EVERY DAY

While your ignition is on, the battery works by storing electrical energy as chemical energy. This chemical energy is released as electricity when the power is needed.

This electricity gets generated through a chain of reactions taking place inside the battery. These reactions allow the engine to start, or “crank” as we call it, and to keep the chain going the alternator will continue to generate electrons, whilst storing some of the energy for later.

In an average starter battery, the voltage is approximately 2V per cell, for a total of 12V.

Before you charge your battery, it is important to note the following:

• Battery chargers will charge according to the battery’s current condition.
• Battery chargers will charge at an appropriate rate for its state of charge.
• For most charges, charging voltages run from 13.8V to a maximum of 15.5V.
• Batteries contain sulphuric acid, which can cause severe burns.
• Batteries contain hydrogen-oxygen gases, which can be explosive.
• Always charge in a well-ventilated area and follow the safety and handling instructions.

To charge your battery, follow these steps and safety tips:

• The first step is to always read the manufacturer’s manual.
• Take special note of the safety and handling instructions before you proceed.
• Protective eyewear, rubber gloves and appropriate workwear is very important.
• Remove all your jewellery.
• Remove the vent caps, if applicable.
• Check the water level and add distilled water to the maximum level, if necessary. Do not overfill.
• To determine if the battery needs to be charged, use a hydrometer to test its specific gravity.
• If you removed the vent caps, now is the time to reinstall them.
• Connect the leads to the correct battery terminals while the charger is still unplugged – positive to positive and negative to negative.
• Adjust the charger to the appropriate settings for your battery.
• Plug in and switch the charger on.
• Be careful NOT to wiggle or adjust the connections while the charger is turned on or plugged in.
• Start with the lowest amp setting and adjust to a higher amp, if necessary, once the charger is on and the battery is charging.
• Always limit the charge with a current no more than 10% of the rated capacity of the battery. The voltage on charge should be limited to 14.8V.

Important info during the charge:

• The vent caps should remain on.
• Open flames, sparks or smoking should not be allowed near the battery.
• Keep an eye on the heat as the battery should never become hot to the touch.

Important info after the charge:

• Turn the charger off and unplug it immediately once the battery is fully charged.
• Disconnect the leads.
• If you continue to charge a fully charged battery, you can damage to the internal plates, which can shorten the life of the battery.

Today’s modern vehicles require little attention, but it is important to do a general check at least once a year:

• Check that the terminal connections are still clean, fit properly and are protected from outside elements.
• Make sure the hold-down bar is still secure. This will reduce vibrations and ensure your battery is still secure.
• Check for signs of corrosion at the terminals.
• Wipe the terminals with a mixture of baking soda and water to keep them clean.
• Keep the outside of the battery clean from any oil and heavy dirt to prevent potential short circuiting.
• If your battery has removable vents, remove them to check the electrolyte levels in each cell. If the water level is low, fill with distilled water to prevent chemicals from contaminating the electrolytes. Do not overfill as acid can run out.
• Always read the safety and handling instructions before you work with the battery.

There are a few warning signs to look out for when it comes to your battery. If you are not sure, visit us for your FREE battery test and out team will gladly assist.

The signs are:

• In cold weather the battery seems to lose power quickly.
• The ‘check engine’ or warning light stays on. Although the engine light can mean many things in your car, it can also indicate a fault battery.
• Electrical problems or dim lights: If the battery is losing its charge, it will struggle to power things like your lights or dashboard computer. Remember, the more you plug into your car, the faster the battery will die.
• A slow starting engine: This is usually the last sign before a battery dies completely. The components inside the battery will wear out over time, becoming less effective. This causes the battery to take longer to charge, meaning you will have to wait longer for the engine to start.
• A clicking or grinding sound when the ignition is turned.
• Corrosion on your connectors: A white substance on the metal parts of your battery could indicate corrosion. Corroded terminals can cause voltage issues, which can give you trouble when starting your car.
• A bad smell: Either battery damage or an internal short can cause leaking gas from the battery. A “rotten egg” smell could indicate a leaking battery.

Under normal circumstances, you should get a few years of service from your battery. But there are several factors that can affect its lifespan, such as:

• Your vehicle type
• Weather conditions
• Driving habits

We always recommend that you consult a professional when it comes to replacing your battery. Our FREE battery test will provide you with all the info you need to make an informed decision.

It is also important that you check your vehicle’s owner manual to understand the original equipment manufacturer (OEM) recommendations for the following:

• Technology type
• Group size of the battery
• Cold-cranking amps (CCA)
• Reserve capacity (RC)

Once you are certain that the battery needs to be replaced, we recommend that you follow the safety and handling precautions as closely as possible. If you are unsure, our team of experts can assist you to install the battery in the safest and best way possible.

Instructions to install a car battery:

1. Disconnect the earth cable first (usually negative) when removing the old battery.
2. Ensure that you use the correct tools and spanners.
3. Once the old battery is removed, clean the tray and hold-downs with a mixture of baking soda and water.
4. Clean the cable clamps and check them for damage.
5. Connect the new battery, beginning with the positive cable. Be sure to read our safety tips above.

It is inevitable that all car batteries will need to be replaced eventually. All batteries have a shelf life, and whether you use them or not, they need to be replaced every few years.

Helpful tips to maintain and increase the life of your battery:

• Ensure that your battery is always clean and dry.
• Ensure that the battery fits properly on its trey and that there are no rattles and vibrations.
• Ensure that the two terminals (positive and negative) are always tightly fastened. A loose connection can cause a short circuit and can lead to a reduced power supply.
• To avoid discharge of the battery, switch off unnecessary electronic equipment when the vehicle is standing.
• Over time the battery can oxidize. Prevent oxidation by cleaning the white powder on the sides of the terminals with baking soda, water, and a toothbrush. By keeping it clean, it increases the flow of charge and the battery life. Ensure the terminals are not attached to the battery before you do this and clean the liquid with a dry cloth before re-attaching the terminals.
• If possible, invest in a car battery charger to maintain the optimum charging level when your car won’t be used for a long period.
• If you need to jumpstart your car, check the vehicle’s owner manual for your specific car.
• Check the voltage of the battery every chance you get. The optimum reading is around 12.6 volts. Anything less than 12.2 volts means you may need a new battery.
• Avoid short rides. Short trips place strain on your battery as there is not enough time to recharge. Taking longer drives will allow the battery to fully recharge.
• Make sure all the lights are switched off when you exit the car: Luckily most cars today have a signal or warning light to let you know if the lights are still on.
• Avoid leaving your car off for extended periods of time. If this is inevitable, disconnect the battery if you are technically capable of doing so. Remember to double check your owners’ manual for specific instructions.
• There are other options such as a smart charger to keep your battery charged if you have the option.
• Regular and correct maintenance on your car will place less stress on your battery. This will also reduce the risk of breakdowns and other potential faults. Always have a set of jumper cables in your car.

• Always wear protective clothing and goggles. Batteries produce acid and acid causes burns. If acid gets into your eyes, rinse with as much water as possible, and seek medical attention immediately.
• Battery acid also corrodes metal. If battery acid is spilt and you can’t get to the spill, neutralize the acid with a mixture of baking soda and water.
• Batteries should always be kept in an upright position and away from any external heat sources.
• Batteries contain an explosive mixture of hydrogen gas and air, and can explode if they are overcharged. Something as simple as a naked flame or sparks from matches, lighters, spanners touching both terminals and the incorrect use of jumper cables can cause it to ignite.
• Keep anything that can ignite away from batteries and be cautious when jump-starting the battery.
• To reduce the risk of a short circuit between your tools and vehicle frame, always disconnect the earth lead first and replace it last when removing or replacing batteries.
• Before using conductive tools on a battery, remove all metallic jewellery like watches, rings, or bracelets.
• To reduce the possibility of sparks, switch off all electrical or charging equipment before removing the charging leads from the vehicle.
• Always work in a well-ventilated area when charging a battery.

If your battery must be stored for an extended period, we recommend you keep the battery fully charged by using a battery maintenance charger. This will monitor your battery and keep it at full capacity while stored.

If you don’t have a maintenance charger, fully charge the battery, then disconnect it from the vehicle to avoid unnecessary electrical elements draining it. Check the voltage periodically and recharge it if it falls below 12.6 volts.

Yes. It is imperative that you follow the safety guidelines when working with or near a battery, or even jump starting a car:

• Wear protective clothing, glasses, or safety goggles.
• Keep as much distance between yourself and the battery as possible.
• Read the warning labels on the battery.
• Do not smoke or cause flames or sparks anywhere near the battery.
• Read your instruction manual before jump starting the vehicle.
• If you get acid on your skin or eyes, flush with water immediately and seek medical attention.