As winter approaches, it’s time to start thinking about preparing your batteries to handle the cold and moisture. However, not all batteries are the same, so preparing them for winter and several months of storage should be addressed. Here are some of the common questions and facts for winter-proofing your batteries, no matter what kind they are.
How Do Cold Temperatures Affect Battery Performance?
In general, cold temperatures slow down a battery’s chemical reactions and increase its internal resistance. This reduces capacity, particularly at higher discharge rates. Therefore, for every 18°F (10°C) below room temperature, the battery loses about 10% of its capacity. So, your golf car’s range will be significantly reduced in extremely cold temperatures.
Will Lithium Batteries Stop Working In Extreme Cold Weather?
Lithium batteries will also have reduced capacity in extremely cold weather, but the Battery Management System (BMS) can shut down the battery if weather conditions harm its function and operation.
Can I Charge Lithium Batteries In Extreme Cold?
Lithium batteries have reduced charge acceptance at low temperatures and should not be charged below 32°F (0°C). Depending on battery temperature, hot or cold, the BMS determines if charging is safe. Charging or discharging actions will be temporarily disabled if the battery is below or above set temperatures. Always check the manufacturer’s specifications to determine if the battery is too cold to be charged.
Can I Accurately Measure The State Of Charge In Cold Weather?
Yes, on FLA batteries using a hydrometer, subtract four points (.004) from your hydrometer reading for every 10°F below 80°F (5.6°C below 27°C). This is necessary because the optimum hydrometer reading temperature is 80°F (27°C). A fully charged FLA battery should read approximately 1.270 SG.
AGM batteries can be checked using a voltmeter. Check with the battery manufacturer’s specifications to determine the voltage at full charge.
Lithium batteries with a BMS will show the state of charge on an LED display on the battery case. Some batteries are also mobile app enabled.
Which Types Of Batteries Need To Be Fully Charged Before Cold Winter Storage?
FLA and AGM batteries need a full charge before storing. It prevents the electrolyte from turning to mostly water and freezing. A fully charged FLA and AGM battery has a freezing point below -80°F (-62°C), while a discharged battery has a freezing point of 20°F (-6.7°C) or higher.
Lithium-ion batteries may have a BMS equipped with an on/off button, allowing the battery to be switched off during storage. The BMS, however, needs a very minimal amount of power to keep the battery in check, so some power loss is present. For very long periods of storage, check the status of the battery periodically to ensure it is not depleted.
What Is The Discharge Rate Of Lithium, AGM, and FLA Batteries In Cold Conditions?
Lithium batteries’ discharge performance is reduced significantly at low temperatures and may not operate at all due to the protection provided by the built-in Battery Management System (BMS).
Both AGM and FLA Batteries have different discharge rates depending on temperatures. See these charts below:
In general, be aware that the battery chemistry you use in your golf car can determine how well it will perform in frigid temperatures. Always check the battery manufacturer’s website for recommendations and charging methods for your battery type. To find additional resources on battery maintenance and ways to increase battery efficiency and service life, visit U.S. Battery’s website at www.usbattery.com.
