The battery is an important part of any car. It is not only a source of energy for all on-board electronics, but also unloads the generator and helps to start the engine. Proper care and timely charging of the battery is the key to its successful and long-term work. However, there are some nuances that may alarm the driver. For example, why does the battery boil when charging?
Battery and its types
All batteries are divided into three types:
- Serviced. The cheapest type. The battery has special openings for replacing and repairing the plates. In such batteries, you must constantly monitor the level of electrolyte and periodically add distilled water. There are not so many similar batteries on the market.
- Unattended. A relatively new type of battery. Their body is completely sealed. Helium, which does not evaporate, is often used as an electrolyte. The battery has an extended service life and is not too whimsical to care for. Its only drawback is the price.
- Low maintenance. This is the middle version between the two previous ones. In such batteries there is no access to the plates, but control over the level of electrolyte is required. A low-maintenance battery can be purchased both filled and dry-charged (“for growth”). The battery has good performance and reasonable price.
Each of the presented types will serve for a long time, without creating problems, but subject to proper care.
How to charge the battery?
The battery is charged periodically. If the density of the electrolyte decreased by 0.08 g / cm3 - The battery is half dead. Headlights can also indicate battery drain, which quickly goes out; slow starter; changes in the color of the electrolyte (turbidity, darkening).
Before charging the battery, you need to clean it of dirt, check the gas vents and add water.
The battery is charged with current, the force of which is 1/10 of its capacity. Charging time is 12-16 hours. So, a battery with a capacity of 75 A / h needs to be charged with a current of 7.5 A.
The battery boils while charging and emits harmful gas. Therefore, charging should be done in a well-ventilated area, away from crowding. The battery should be on a flat surface. After charging, the battery is wiped with a dry cloth and set back.
Why does the battery boil when charging?
This question is of interest to many drivers, and most of all to beginners. Boiling can occur for two reasons. Attention should be paid to the process itself. If a small number of bubbles occurs, this is normal. This is how gas is released. This happens before charging is complete. If the battery boils immediately when charging, it’s bad. Perhaps he has already become unusable. You can try to reanimate it by following these steps:
- Clean the housing and terminals from dirt.
- Top up with electrolyte.
- Wipe the surface of the battery with an alkaline (soda) solution.
These procedures are best done before charging. A working battery boils when charging only a couple of hours at the end (2-3 hours). Any other boiling is a sign of malfunction. Do not ignore this symptom, because sometimes batteries can explode.
How to care for the battery?
It is no secret to anyone that the correct and timely care of any thing or detail can prolong their life. This also applies to batteries. On average, a battery can last (depending on its type) from 3.5 to 5-7 years. To a large extent, its “longevity” is affected by operating conditions.
So:
- The battery should always be dry and clean, with no electrolyte smudges. Often the battery boils when charging precisely because of it. Contamination also increases the likelihood of battery self-discharge.
- The density of the electrolyte must be systematically checked, if necessary, add water. Density can be measured with special instruments - a hydrometer.
- The battery must not be left over in the garage. If the car is not used in winter, the battery must be removed and kept warm until the vehicle is started.
- The battery has its own shelf life, which is on average 6-7 months. If the battery has not been used for more than 8 months, it may become unusable.
- The battery must be charged on time. Even one complete discharge can adversely affect her work. Do not recharge the battery. More is not better.
- It is better to buy batteries in specialized stores and always check the certificate of conformity.
Conclusion
The battery is an important element of the car, which ensures its full operation. Without a battery, the car will not drive. Regardless of what type of battery the driver chooses for his car, timely care and proper charging will help to prolong the life of the device.
When charging, the battery should boil two to three hours before the end. In other cases, boiling can only indicate a battery malfunction.