How to Make Sure Your Battery Lasts Longer
When it comes to convenience, the battery has given us so much. From the calculator to the car and the motorbike to the mobile phone, these modern inventions would be nothing without a battery to power them. Batteries are great beyond a shadow of a doubt, but they do have one inconvenient downside - they run out.
The good news is that the life of most batteries can be extended with a little care and know how. Let's take a look at how you can get more out of your motorbike, lawnmower and mobility scooter batteries and not only save yourself money but also the inconvenience of a drained battery when you least expect it.
1. Always choose a good quality battery
When looking for a rechargeable battery it is important to select the best quality battery that your money can buy. It's true that you get what you pay for and when you choose a low quality, low cost battery, you can expect it to degrade very quickly.
For example, you might notice that you need to charge your battery more often or that it refuses to charge at all after a while. In contrast, a decent and reliable battery will last longer and provide more power with fewer charges as a result.
When it comes to looking for a suitable battery for your appliance, device or machine, don’t forget that a low cost battery won’t be as efficient.
2. Extending the life of your motorcycle battery
No other vehicle can compare to a motorbike when it comes to freedom, power and speed rolled into one. So the last thing you'll want is to be stuck on the hard shoulder with a flat battery in the rain.
The first way to ensure your battery doesn't let you down is to choose the right battery for your particular bike. Incompatible batteries can wear out much faster so it is important that you check your owner's manual or ask your local garage or supplier to find and fit the right battery.
You should also ensure that your battery is kept fully charged. If you ride every day this shouldn't be difficult. Consult the manual or ask your battery supplier for further information if you need assistance.
3. Get more from your lawnmower battery
If you are lucky enough to own a sit-on lawnmower, we’re guessing you have quite a large lawn to maintain. Don't risk running out of juice halfway through mowing the lawn when looking after your battery will ensure it charges and takes you to the end of the job.
Never fully discharge your lawnmower battery as this can significantly reduce its storage capacity. If you have a 3 stage charger on your mower, it will automatically stop the recharging process once the battery is fully charged and switch to a low ‘trickle charge’ where there is no need to disconnect the battery. However, if you have a ‘constant current’ charger it is important to remove your battery from the charger once it has been fully charged to avoid any damage.
Regularly check your cord, charger and battery to ensure they are in good working order and store your battery according to the advice in your owner's manual.
4. Mobility scooters and battery life
Don't risk your mobility scooter running out of power when you need it the most. Normal battery life will depend on a number of factors, including the frequency of use and charging, the length of discharge, and the temperature at which the battery is being stored when not in use.
It is recommended that a mobility scooter battery is charged every day after it’s been used. Most mobility scooter chargers are sized to charge the battery, from discharged, in around 7-10 hours - also referred to as an ‘overnight charge’. This might not always be possible to achieve due to your own commitments, but if you look after your battery now, it will serve you well in the future.
5. If in doubt get the manual out
Your owner's manual will be able to give you the best advice on battery care no matter what the device, appliance or type of battery.
Good quality batteries should give you years of reliable use but that life cycle does largely depend on the frequency they are being used and the care and attention they are given. When looked after properly, your batteries will give you a good run for your money and help you to avoid the frustration and expense of premature failure.
For further battery advice, contact Blue Box Batteries today.
Battery image from Bigstock.