When it comes to our vehicle’s well-being, the first things that come to mind include the engine, the tires, or the brakes, but there is one part that most of us rarely pay attention to until it fails us- the car battery.
Weather conditions impact the performance and lifespan of the car battery. Ranging from the hot summer season to the freezing winter, the climate challenges that are exerted to your battery are distinctive.
Knowing these effects can not only protect you from awkward breakdowns but can also increase the life of your battery.
Science of Car Batteries
Before going into the effects of temperature, it will be relevant to explore how a car battery functions.
A majority of car batteries are lead-acid batteries, which comprise lead plates that are immersed in a solution of sulfuric acid.
When you turn on your car, there is a chemical process that produces electricity that will, in turn, engage the starter motor and other electrical devices.
This process is temperature-sensitive. He noted that most chemical reactions are faster when the temperature is high and slower when the temperature is low.
This basic principle can explain why your car battery reacts differently to weather conditions.
The Effects of High Temperatures on Car Battery
While heat is beneficial in that it can boost the performance of car batteries, its effect can also be detrimental in this case.
On the one hand, temperature will have an effect on the battery, and if it is warmer, then the battery’s performance will increase for a while.
On the other hand, high temperatures for an extended period can cause extensive battery degradation. So, it’s recommended to visit a reputable car battery replacement and repair shop in Houston before the start of summer.
Increased Chemical Activity
However, it is essential to know that chemical processes in the battery work better in hot climate conditions so your battery might work better in hot weather.
Your car could be easier to start and the battery could even charge faster. Nevertheless, this increase in activity is not without its drawbacks.
These chemical reactions cause the rapid release of heat, which in turn can cause the electrolyte, the liquid that enables the current to flow between the plates, to evaporate.
Thermal Runaway
Thermal runaway is a state that can occur at high temperatures, for example, in old or poorly maintained batteries.
It occurs when the thermal load produced within the battery exceeds the rate at which it can be removed, and the resultant temperature rises rapidly.
This can culminate in dire consequences such as swelling of the battery, leakage, or even possible explosion.
Rising demand from auxiliary systems
As we know, when the climate is hot, people get into their cars and turn on the air conditioning and other cooling systems more often.
These systems take their power directly from the battery, which in turn causes a greater load on it.
Even with a properly functioning alternator which should be able to recharge the battery in the course of the journey, this puts extra load on the battery, more so if it is already under heat stress.
Shortened Battery Lifespan
These are some of the causes of the reduced battery lifespan that comes as a result of the increased temperature in the environment.
Automotive surveys have revealed that batteries in hotter areas, such as the southern part of the US have an average life expectancy of 30 months as compared to 50- 60 months in colder climates.
Such a decrease underlines the necessity of battery inspections and care in the hot season, as well as the need for timely replacement when required.
Cold Climate Effects on Automobile Batteries
The low temperatures pose a unique problem on car batteries in particular. While heat impacts both the performance and lifespan of a battery, cold weather impacts the performance of the battery with little effect on its lifespan.
However, this can be particularly inconvenient when you particularly need your car, for instance, during a cold winter morning.
Slowed Chemical Reactions
Since currents decrease with temperature, the chemical reactions occurring inside a battery also reduce.
This results in reduced power generation by the battery as the activity is reduced.
For instance, at 32°F (0°C), the car battery will be able to deliver about 65% of its capacity, while at 0°F (-18°C), it will only be able to deliver 40%.
Increased Resistance in Cold Engines
In cold weather, engine oil thickens, which increases the amount of energy required to start the engine.
This added resistance puts more strain on the battery, which is already struggling to generate enough power.
The combination of a sluggish battery and a resistant engine is a recipe for a dead car on a cold morning.
Increased Use of Electrical Components
Similar to hot climates, cold weather often leads to increased use of certain electrical components, such as heaters, defrosters, and seat warmers.
These additional demands can further drain a battery that’s already struggling to perform in the cold.
Deep Discharge and Battery Damage
Repeatedly attempting to start a car with a cold battery can lead to a deep discharge, where the battery’s charge is depleted to very low levels.
Lead-acid batteries are not designed to be deeply discharged repeatedly, and doing so can cause irreversible damage, further shortening the battery’s life.
Reducing the Effects of Weather on Your Car Battery
Though the weather conditions are something that you cannot change, you can do a number of things to reduce the effect of such climate on the car battery.
Thus, knowing the obstacles that come with various climates will help you prevent their effects that shorten the lifetime of your battery and guarantee your car starts in the morning.
1. Regular Battery Maintenance
Care is necessary, especially if you reside in an environment with harsh climates and rough conditions.
This involves assessing the battery charge, cleaning the battery terminals, and checking the electrolyte concentration properly.
In the regions where the temperature is high, there is a need to monitor any signs of corrosion and, when possible, cool the battery.
In colder regions, ensure that you have charged your battery sufficiently to minimize the chances of freezing during the winter season.
2. Insulation and Cooling
Temperature control also plays a crucial role in batteries and by regulating the temperatures; you will find a great improvement.
In hot climates, one can park his car in the shade or use a battery insulator to decrease the temperature under the bonnet.
Battery blankets or thermal wraps can also be used in cold areas to increase the temperature, thus improving the ability of the battery to produce power.
3. Avoid Short Trips
Indeed, short trips put a lot of strain on your battery, especially if the weather is cold or boiling.
This means that the battery is not given enough time to charge to its maximum level before it is again called upon to start the engine, and thus, the charge starts to deplete gradually.
If possible, do several tasks in one go to allow the battery to regain its charge for the next use.
What You Should Do If You Notice Such Symptoms?
Taking care of your car battery is essential to ensure your vehicle runs smoothly in all weather conditions.
If you notice any issues with your battery, such as difficulty starting your car or signs of corrosion, it’s important to address them promptly.
Visit Eric’s Car Care so our experienced technicians can diagnose any underlying issues and keep your car running reliably, no matter the weather.
