Failing to maintain recreational batteries can lead to reduced performance and premature failure

Battery World National Product Manager, Sebastian Keane, emphasises that all chemistries, but particularly the lead-acid and lithium batteries, require ongoing attention during long-term storage.
“One of the most common causes of early battery failure is prolonged storage in a discharged or partially discharged state,” Sebastian said.
“Batteries left in these conditions will suffer from sulfation and deep discharge degradation.”
Technicians report a seasonal increase in battery replacements at the onset of spring, often due to neglect during the colder months when self-discharge, neglect and low ambient temperatures reduce battery capacity and cranking power.
Key technical considerations for battery storage include:
• Self-discharge mitigation: all batteries experience self-discharge. Cold temperatures slow chemical reactions and reduce available capacity. Regular use of a maintenance or float charger can offset permanent drains and prevent deep discharge.
• Life cycle extension: batteries stored at optimal state of charge (SOC), typically between 80–100 percent, experience less degradation. Lithium-ion chemistries benefit from partial SOC storage, while lead-acid requires full charge to prevent sulfation.
• Safe storage practices: batteries should be stored upright in a dry, well-ventilated environment. Terminals should be cleaned and protected from corrosion using dielectric grease or anti-corrosion spray.
Before storage, Sebastian recommends performing a full system check, including visual inspection for terminal corrosion, case swelling, or leakage.
Cleaning corrosion with a sodium bicarbonate solution helps maintain connection conductivity, integrity and minimise terminal resistance.
“Disconnecting the battery from loads and parasitic draws is essential. Even minimal current leakage can flatten a battery over several weeks,” Sebastian said.
He says technicians and fleet managers should also:
• Measure open circuit voltage (OCV) monthly and recharge if levels fall below 12.4V (for lead-acid) or manufacturer-specific thresholds for lithium.
• For flooded batteries, monitor electrolyte levels and top up with distilled water as needed.
• Rotate batteries in multi-unit storage environments to ensure even usage and minimise uneven ageing.
In conclusion, Battery World notes that consistent off-season maintenance reduces the total cost of ownership, prevents downtime, and improves first-start reliability when equipment is reactivated in spring.

For more information, visit www.batteryworld.com.au