Dee
p cycle batteries are also known as lead-acid batteries. We usually use this kind of battery for our recreational vehicles such as our boats or campers. Deep cycle batteries are ideal for use wherein the recreational vehicle requires much power for a small amount of time.
Many of these batteries are at 6v or 12v. You should know the voltage of your deep cycle battery before you proceed with the process of reconditioning it. I will cover more details here about how you should recondition a deep cycle battery.
Let’s begin!
After some time, any type of battery will go flat and won’t be able to provide the needed power to our vehicles or equipment. For many, the easiest solution is to get rid of it and buy a new unit. However, this is also an expensive way to go about this situation. You can recondition your old battery so that you don’t have to buy a new one. You get to save money in the process.
Restoring Deep Cycle Batteries
Here are the 5 steps to take for this process. Remember to proceed with caution. Reread each instruction so you can be sure that you are doing it right.
1. Cleaning The Battery
Corrosion is the usual problem when batteries get older. You will notice a white powder appearing on the exterior of the battery. Take note that it is toxic and you should wash it off from the battery before you do anything else. Also, don’t forget to wear gloves and safety goggles so that you won’t be in contact with the toxic substances.
To clean the battery, prepare a mixture of one gallon of water and one pound of baking powder. This is important because the baking soda makes the acid from the battery harmless. Check if your battery is too greasy or dirty. If it is, you can try adding dish soap to the water and baking soda mixture.
The next step is to take off the battery terminals using two wrenches. Make sure that you use the right size. Once removed, use the solution you prepared and clean the clamps and terminals thoroughly using a toothbrush.
After completing this process, wipe your battery dry and also check for any damage or cracks. If it is mechanically sound, place petroleum jelly onto the terminals. You can also use a commercial protection spray on them before you reattach the clamps.
2. Removing The Cell Covers Of The Battery
When you are done cleaning your battery, then we can proceed with the restoring process. To do this, you will need a screwdriver so you can remove the cell covers of the battery. You can also use needle-nose pliers for this procedure.
Don’t forget to wear your safety glasses to protect you from the battery acid. It can eat through your clothing and burn your skin so be careful. Also, make sure that no debris or dirt will get into the battery’s cells. Prepare a rag so you can easily wipe away any mess.
3. Filling The Battery Cells With Water
For this step, make sure that you use only distilled water because tap water has minerals that can cause corrosion. Fill each of the cells completely. If you don’t the oxygen and hydrogen left in the cell can cause the battery to spark or explode.
You should also be careful not to overfill the battery cells because the water spilling out contains acid. The amount of water you will put in the cells highly depends on the battery size as well as levels of the acid in it.
4. Connecting The Battery To A Battery Rejuvenator
When you fill the cells with water, you can expect that it will immediately make your battery work. Try and charge it with a conventional charger for batteries. If it does charge, continue charging it. If it doesn’t, you may need a battery rejuvenator.
This device can pulsate energy through the plates of the battery and cause the sulfate buildup to break apart. When the sulfate has been removed, it is now possible to charge your battery again.
5. Testing The Voltage Of The Battery
Once you have finished charging your battery, get your voltmeter so you can check how much charge your battery is holding. Allow the battery a few days to just sit. Check the voltage again with your voltmeter.
If it has successfully held the same voltage, then it is good to be used again. When you have installed your battery on your vehicle again, periodically check its voltage to make sure that it is holding its charge.
Conclusion
What do you think about these steps to restoring your deep cycle battery? Have you tried it on your old battery? Do tell me your experience in the comments. If you have any questions about deep cycle batteries and how to revive them, simply email me, and i’d provide you with more information about it.