As we approach the summer season in New Zealand, it's time to talk about lead acid battery basics and how to get the most out of your power source. Whether you're a boatie preparing for adventures on the water or a homeowner looking to optimise your backup power system, understanding how to extend battery life and improve performance is crucial.
Lead acid batteries remain a popular choice here in New Zealand across a wide range of applications. They are cost-effective for a lot of people, especially compared to some of the newer technology batteries and they remain a staple here at Ivent.
While lithium-ion batteries boast higher energy density and lighter weight, lead acid batteries excel in areas often overlooked. From their impressive recycling rates to their rugged reliability, lead acid batteries prove that sometimes, the old ways are indeed the best.
For boaties, lead acid batteries remain a staple choice and as we head towards the warmer summer months, this is the time to check your battery, especially if it has been hibernating over the winter months and ensure you are maximising the performance of your battery to keep you going all summer long.
In this post, we are going to talk you through some basic tips for extending the life of your lead acid battery and optimising the performance, getting the most out of the technology for longer.
Lead Acid Battery Basics
Lead acid batteries have been a reliable power source for decades, but they require proper care to maximise their lifespan and performance.
To maximise the lifespan of lead acid batteries, proper maintenance is crucial. Regularly checking the electrolyte levels, ensuring clean terminals, and avoiding complete discharges can significantly extend their operational life.
Additionally, the recycling rate of lead acid batteries is impressive, with around 90% being recycled in North America. This not only reduces environmental impact but also provides a steady supply of lead for new batteries.
Here are some essential tips for extending battery life and optimising performance across seasons:
Summer Care
As temperatures rise, lead acid batteries face unique challenges:
- Keep batteries cool: High temperatures accelerate chemical reactions, potentially shortening battery life. Store batteries in well-ventilated areas away from direct sunlight.
- Check water levels: Increased evaporation in summer means more frequent water top-ups for flooded lead acid batteries.
- Avoid overcharging: Heat combined with overcharging can cause excessive gassing and water loss.
By following these simple tips this summer, you give yourself the best possible chance of extending the overall lifespan of your lead acid batteries when the weather starts to heat up.
Winter Maintenance
Cold weather presents its own set of challenges:
- Maintain charge: Lead acid batteries lose capacity in cold temperatures. Keep them fully charged to prevent freezing and sulfation. This can be done by either using a battery charger or by using the battery on a regular basis.
- Insulate if necessary: In extremely cold areas, consider insulating your battery compartment. This is probably more relevant for those living in the South Island, however, it is worth considering for anyone not using their battery over the winter months.
- Check connections: Cold can cause battery connections to contract. Ensure all connections are tight and corrosion-free.
As we come out of the winter months, a thorough check of your lead acid battery is essential before you head out, either on the water or on land. It’s important to conduct regular checks of your lead acid battery to ensure the long-term performance.
Tips for Boaties
Many Kiwi boaties are still using lead acid batteries and for good reason. They are a good old fashioned workhorse and offer many benefits. If you are a Kiwi boatie still using lead acid technology, here are some tips to keep your battery in top condition:
- Regular inspections: Check for corrosion, loose connections, and proper fluid levels before each outing.
- Proper charging: Use a marine-specific charger to ensure optimal charging cycles.
- Avoid deep discharges: Try not to discharge your batteries below 50% capacity to extend their lifespan.
These tips will help to keep you out on the water all year round and also extend the life of your lead acid battery, maximising your return in investment.
New Battery Technologies
While lead acid batteries remain popular, new technologies offer compelling alternatives:
- Lithium Iron Phosphate (LiFePO4): These batteries offer a longer lifespan, faster charging, and better performance in a lighter package. They're ideal for marine applications but come at a higher initial cost.
- Lithium-Ion Batteries: Known for their high energy density and long cycle life, lithium-ion batteries are becoming increasingly popular due to their efficiency and reduced weight compared to lead acid options. They require less maintenance and can handle deeper discharges without significant damage.
- AGM (Absorbent Glass Mat): A sealed lead acid variant, AGM batteries offer better performance and less maintenance than traditional flooded lead acid batteries.
At Ivent, we stock a wide range of battery technologies to suit every need. Whether you're looking to upgrade your boat's power system or find the perfect battery for your home backup power, our experts can help you choose the right solution.
Summary
Remember, proper maintenance is key to extending battery life, regardless of the technology. Regular checks, appropriate charging, and protection from extreme temperatures will help ensure your batteries perform optimally throughout the year.
As New Zealand's summer approaches, take the time to assess your battery needs. Whether you stick with tried-and-true lead acid or opt for newer technologies, Ivent has you covered with our extensive stock and expert advice.
