Why Do Lead Acid Batteries Fail?

Lead acid batteries have become a staple of the modern era. We rely on them to start our cars and to provide power to a wide range of commercial systems. However, there's a huge difference between the lead acid batteries of old, and modern options that are available today.

Just what makes modern lead acid batteries so different? Well, for one thing, modern options like those available here at MK Battery require far less maintenance and safety monitoring. However, it's important to note that whatever kind of lead acid battery you have, there are maintenance measures that you can take to improve performance and longevity. 

Balancing Water Levels for Flooded Batteries

Did you know that flooded lead acid batteries require water to function properly? In these older lead acid battery models, water is responsible for carrying the electrolyte as it circulates. During the charging process when, for example, your car is running, water is slowly lost as it evaporates due to heat. In hotter climates, this effect is more pronounced. Once the water begins to run low, the electrolyte substances will begin a process called sulfation, during which the chemicals build up on the battery plates and solidify. Once this happens, your battery will no longer hold a full charge.

Here at MK Battery, we only sell sealed lead acid batteries, where absorbed glass mats (AGM) or gel is used to conduct electricity between cells, rather than water. This means less maintenance for you, and better stability and safety for the battery itself. It's one of the many reasons that MK Battery products last longer and hold a charge better than the competition. 

Poor Charging Practices

Batteries that are not properly recharged will eventually fail because the internal capacity becomes limited with time. This tends to happen when an alternator is going out or your charger goes bad. You will notice that your battery capacity gets smaller and smaller until it seems like the battery is unable to hold a charge at all. This can also happen if you leave a battery uncharged for a prolonged period of time.

Overcharging can also be a hazard for some older models of battery. This increases the risk of corrosion and swelling. However, most modern chargers are sensitive enough to halt charging before it becomes a threat to the battery's performance. 

Proper Charging

Proper battery charging is accomplished with the help of a trickle charger. A trickle charger with a testing circuit will slowly recharge your battery over the course of several hours, making sure to reach the proper voltage for a full charge. It will also cycle on and off as needed to ensure that temperatures are maintained within the normal operating range. This system also allows you to leave a battery on a charger for up to several months without having to worry about damage from undercharging or overcharging in the meantime.

Lead acid batteries are an important part of our daily lives, but few people understand how to maintain them well. By learning a little bit about proper watering and charging of batteries, you can ensure that your battery stays strong so you don’t end up stranded. For more information about lead acid batteries and maintenance, contact MK Battery today.