Frosty morning woes? Simple tricks to boost car battery life
Winter conditions can be challenging for drivers, particularly when starting the car. If your battery struggles on cold days, it may be time for a replacement. However, there is a simple way to enhance its performance temporarily.
Do you know why a battery loses power during frosty weather? The answer lies in the chemical processes inside. The optimal operating temperature is 20-25 degrees Celsius, where it functions most efficiently. Unfortunately, chemical reactions slow down at lower temperatures, resulting in decreased efficiency.
The battery in frosty conditions - why does it fail?
Even at -10 degrees Celsius, the battery operates at 80% of its capacity, and in extreme frost, the efficiency can drop to 50-60%. Additionally, a cold engine creates more resistance, meaning the starter has less force, and the battery wears out more quickly. In winter, such problems are common and can be quite troublesome.
However, all is not lost. A simple trick can make starting the car in frost easier. Experienced drivers recommend turning on the headlights for several seconds before attempting to start the car. This way, the battery 'warms up' before fully loading, allowing electrochemical reactions to begin before the engine turns on. Just remember to switch off the lights right before starting.
If your battery frequently discharges and your car mainly covers short distances, try an old trick from the 1980s and 90s: store the battery in a warm place overnight. Removing it and bringing it indoors will ensure that it's ready to work at full power in the morning.
Problem with the car battery? Try this trick
This method requires some skill in mounting and dismounting the battery. Still, it can help avoid morning issues with starting the vehicle, especially when you have an important meeting and can’t afford a failed start.
