What are some common car battery myths and facts? Batteries are the least understood of a vehicle’s accessories, which is surprising, given that it is critical to how well a car can operate its starting and auxiliary capabilities.
To help out car owners and dispel the false beliefs regarding batteries, here are some of the most common car battery myths and facts:
Myth A: Once fully charged, batteries can be stored indefinitely
The facts – A battery naturally self-discharges at a rate of 1-60% every month. The rate depends mainly on the type of car battery and the temperature in its environment.
If the temperature in the storage area is high, the battery will self-discharge faster. It also does not matter if the battery is sitting on a concrete floor. An old myth that is still doing the rounds says that batteries will discharge faster when stored on concrete.
The myth is based on car batteries used in the 1900s fitted into wooden boxes lined with tar. This material is porous, and the external leakage of batteries made them discharge faster, making car owners think that the concrete floor was the culprit. However, today’s batteries are covered by hard rubber or polypropylene cases, which helps protect them from any potential external leakages.
Myth B: Operating the car will help recharge the battery to its full capacity
The facts depend on specific factors, such as the temperature, the amount of power the battery has remaining, and how much voltage is sent by the alternator to the battery. Making short trips or running the engine on idle will not charge the battery fully.
It is also a mistake to entirely rely on “warming up” the automotive battery by increasing your power consumption, such as by turning on the headlights. In the majority of cases, this will be a futile attempt to start the engine. If the battery needs to recharging, it’s best to use a quality car battery charger.
Myth C: Sealed maintenance-free batteries don’t require maintenance
The facts – In fact, they do. Car batteries that are categorised and sold as maintenance-free are not as self-sufficient as they seem. Maintenance-free batteries are sealed, so electrolyte levels are maintained by the Century Advanced Labyrinth Chamber, which works with the Double Lid Technology to transform vapours into condensed water and redirected them back into the battery.
However, it is not true that they will never need maintenance. Regular maintenance such as checking loose terminals, connections, and over-charging signs by your auto electrical system is necessary. The fact is, the hotter an environment and under-bonnet temperatures are, the more electrolyte fluid a battery will lose.
The Century Ultra High Performance 40 Month Warranty and Century High Performance 30 Month Warranty sealed maintenance-free batteries are engineered with internal components and materials to combat excessive water evaporation in hot conditions.
Keynote:
To retain your battery in optimum health, you must define the correct car battery myths and facts. It will help you set up and observe a regular maintenance routine.
We highly recommend a great resource on common frequently asked battery questions. (Opens in new window)
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