Here are the signs that a lead battery is damaged by extreme temperatures, particularly heat:
Signs of Damage
- Excessive Heat Build-Up: Batteries that feel unusually warm or hot during use or charging may have internal damage. This can lead to thermal runaway, a dangerous condition that necessitates immediate replacement.
- Swollen, Bulged, or Cracked Battery Case: Visible signs of swelling, bulging, or cracking indicate that the battery has experienced overheating or overcharging, often resulting from extreme temperatures.
- Unusual Smells: A rotten egg smell, indicative of hydrogen sulfide gas, can result from overcharging or internal breakdown, often linked to excessive heat.
- Visible Corrosion: Corrosion on terminal ends, accelerated by heat and moisture, can hinder electrical flow, reducing the battery’s effectiveness.
- Rapid Discharge: Batteries that lose charge unexpectedly fast may have developed internal shorts due to high temperatures, which accelerate chemical reactions and lead to faster degradation.
- Reduced Cranking Power: If the battery struggles to provide sufficient power for starting, especially in hotter conditions, it may indicate internal damage affecting its cranking amps.
- Dimming Lights or Slow Engine Start: Symptoms such as dimming headlights or a slow engine crank can signal that the battery is struggling under heat stress.
- Increased Maintenance Needs: Frequent checks and top-offs of electrolyte levels are necessary due to rapid fluid evaporation in high temperatures, indicating potential damage if not managed properly.
These signs suggest that excessive temperature is impacting the battery’s performance and lifespan, necessitating closer monitoring or replacement.
Original article by NenPower, If reposted, please credit the source: https://nenpower.com/blog/what-are-the-signs-that-a-lead-battery-is-damaged-by-extreme-temperatures/
