Any car owner knows how convenient having a portable battery charger can be. Aside from the fact that it can help you save thousands of dollars on buying new car batteries or taking your car battery to the professionals for recharging, it can also be a huge help in the case of an emergency. For example, if your car refuses to start, you can simply use the device to jumpstart your car so you can go on your merry way.
But just like all electrical devices, great care must be taken to ensure the wellbeing of not only your battery charger, but the car battery as well. Here are some tips to help you out.
Battery Charger and Car Battery Maintenance Tips
1. Ensure that the cables and terminals are corrosion-free
Corrosion either on the cable of the battery charger or on the terminal of the battery itself can prevent the charger from performing to the best of its ability. Therefore, before using the device, always check the jump starter and the car battery for corrosion. You can have them cleaned by a professional or you can do it yourself using an old toothbrush and baking soda. Also, make it a point to lubricate the terminals with a small amount of petroleum jelly from time to time to keep them clean longer.
2. Always check the fluid level before charging the battery
Unless you're using a maintenance-free car battery, ensure that you check the battery's fluid level so you'll know whether to re-charge the battery or replace it entirely. If the fluid is low, add more distilled water. If there's no fluid left, replace the battery.
3. Don't charge the battery if it's frozen
Always check the battery's physical appearance before using the battery charger jump starter to charge it. If the sides are bowed out, it indicates that the battery is frozen. You must never charge a frozen battery. Otherwise, it will explode and may put your safety at risk.
4. Don't lean over the battery when charging
Speaking of your safety, you must never lean over the battery when you're charging it or when you're jump-starting your car's engine. If the battery produces sparks or has a short circuit, it might hurt you. Also, don't disconnect the battery cables while the engine is still running.
Proper use and maintenance of your car battery charger and car battery is the key to keeping them in good shape for a longer period of time. So make sure to follow the tips above.
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