Preparing Batteries for the Cold
Have you ever had trouble with the batteries in your electronic devices during the winter season? Cold weather can wreak havoc on many kinds of batteries. In this article, we’ll discuss a few of the effects that the cold weather season can have on batteries. In addition, we’ll cover what steps you should take to maintain your rechargeable batteries so they stay in great shape throughout the year.
Many people believe that storing batteries in extreme cold has no adverse effects. Their reasoning is that the batteries are being stored in a; “cool and dry place”. This is a costly mistake. Cool does not mean cold. Especially, not
“winter” cold. Extreme cold temperatures decrease battery life [and runtime] in most cases. This costs you money in replacement batteries.
Power tool batteries are often the most neglected during cold winter months. Most people keep their power tools and batteries in storage buildings, vehicles, and garages. It’s easy to forget power tool batteries. They are not used frequently during the cold months, and typically do not see action until the weather warms up. If you want to kill your battery this is a sure-fire way to do it. Power tool users should make it a point to take the batteries out of their tools. They should take the batteries out of the cold, and charge them a couple of times during the winter period. This will ensure they are good to go later in the year.
Remember, cold weather means cold vehicles. If you forget your laptop, cell phone, camera, or other battery-powered device in a cold car it will likely lose its charge. Most of the time, even after a single day, battery-powered devices die when left in a cold car. Plus, if you leave your equipment in a cold vehicle the device itself may be affected. Keep your electronic devices out of your vehicles. Grab them when you go inside!
Are you a hunter? Have you ever had to replace a deer camera battery? I bet plenty of times if you’re not using a sealed lead acid battery. Stop using standard alkaline batteries! There’s a better solution for cold weather. Your next replacement battery should be a sealed lead acid battery. Buy one and you’ll save money. They are rechargeable, and will not need a replacement very often. Why? This battery’s design withstands most harsh conditions. Electric fence installers use these batteries for their builds. They are perfect for outdoor use. Spend your money and time on finding the big game, instead of replacing dead batteries.
Lastly, our final winter battery victims are under the hood of a parked vehicle, on the motorcycle used during better weather, and inside your summer lawnmower. All of these batteries will die if they sit for a long period. Without a start or a charge, these batteries will be dead by winter’s end. One of the best things you can do to prevent these batteries from dying is simply going out and starting up the vehicle at least 1-2 times a week. You can also purchase a “battery tender” to keep a small charge on the battery. This will keep your battery from going dead most of the time.
