The main function of a car battery is to start the engine. It takes an average car more than three hundred amperes for a few seconds to start its engine. This is enough electricity to light over three hundred fluorescent bulbs. The lights, audio system, and other accessories are also powered by it. Because of its vital function, it is important not to take your car battery for granted.
Batteries contain sulphuric acid and should always be kept away from skin, clothing and any other material that may corrode. When contamination occurs, use large amounts of water to neutralize and flush away the acid. When working with any potentially harmful fluid from your car, such as battery acid, it is a good idea to wear rubber gloves.
Well-maintained car batteries can last up to two years. There are certain preventive measures one can take to ensure that the nightmare of flat batteries will not happen to them. As soon as you leave your car, turn off all controls, including the lights, the heated rear window, and the radio. As a result, the battery will last longer and there will be fewer chances of it going flat. You can also prolong the lifespan of your battery by protecting it from high temperatures inside the engine bay. High temperatures cause batteries to deteriorate more quickly because of the way they are made and operate. In our warm climate, the electrolyte levels need to be checked more often due to the higher temperatures. If possible, check the battery electrolyte level every week and top it up if necessary. Overfilling should be avoided due to the possibility of overflowing caused by the expansion of the electrolyte in the warm climate.
Additionally, the battery terminals and cables should be periodically checked for corrosion, which should be removed if present. Battery terminals should also be tight. The battery serves as a filter and regulator in the electrical system of the car and it if it should become disconnected while the engine is on, it could cause extensive and expensive damage to the car. In addition, the top of the battery should be kept clean if possible. The alternator belt tension is often overlooked. As a result of too little tension on the alternator belt, the alternator will not charge, increasing the likelihood of the battery losing its charge, since the energy it dissipates during use is not replaced by the charging of the alternator.