Sealed Lead acid also known as AGM batteries are used in a variety of applications including boats, RVs, trailers, and much more. They are rechargeable, maintenance-free, and can be used over and over again. It is important to understand how to take care of your batteries in storage so they last you a long time. This can be during the off-season or when you are finished with your summer adventures.
Storing Canbat Lead Acid Batteries
If you would like your batteries to last and perform at peak capacity, it is important to understand how to store them correctly when they are not in use. Since battery cells are prone to self-discharge and disintegration after extended periods of inactivity, you want to also understand how to recharge your stored batteries. Knowing how to store your batteries correctly helps avoid water penetration and temperature fluctuations which increases the lifespan of your SLA battery.
How to store lead acid (AGM) batteries?
Storing your lead acid batteries the right way is a crucial part of prolonging their life span. There are a couple of factors that need to be considered when storing your AGM battery: temperature and duration of storage. Here is what you need to know:
- Recommended storage temperature: 15 – 20 °C (59 – 68 °F)
- Allowable Temperature Range: -15 to 40 °C (5 to 104 °F)
The table below shows the discharge percentage after 6 months of storing our lead acid batteries at different temperatures:
| Temperature | From Full Charge |
|---|---|
| 0°C | 97% |
| 25°C | 91% |
| 40°C | 63% |
| 60°C | 39% |
Storage Recommendations for a Sealed Lead-Acid Battery:
- Charge the battery fully before storing.
- Store the battery at or below room temperature.
- Do not leave the battery in its application during storage.
- Charge it up every six months
- Do not allow the battery to deeply discharge.
- Set the correct float voltage to avoid sulfation & corrosion.
Signs of improper lead acid Battery storage:
- The battery terminals are corroded and the battery looks to be in bad shape.
- The lights are flickering or dim during battery use.
- The equipment or application is not responding to user actions.
- The battery is dead and does not read a voltage.
BEFORE USING THE BATTERIES AGAIN…
When you are ready to use your batteries again after storage, there are two methods for charging a stored sealed lead-acid battery: topping charge and equalizing charge. A topping charge is accomplished by fully charging the SLA battery, disconnecting it from the charger for 24-48 hours, and then charging it again. The procedure must be done multiple times in order to determine the battery’s complete discharge and recharge capacity.
An equalizing charge is another method for powering a stationary sealed lead-acid battery. An equalizing charge is also known as forced overcharge, which is when the battery is kept charged for an hour or two after it has reached a full charge state. This technique has the potential to eliminate sulfation from the battery, which is most likely created during low-charge circumstances while the battery is idle.
For any questions about how to store lead acid batteries, feel free to phone us or send an email to info@canbat.com. We also offer 24/7 chat support to ensure we are there for you when you need us. Our Canada-based team of battery experts is always happy to help!
