Battery technology has come a long way in recent years, but even the best batteries can lose their charge over time, especially when not in use. This can be frustrating and even costly, as you may need to replace your battery more often than you would like. Fortunately, there are some steps you can take to minimize the impact of this issue. In this blog, we will discuss what to do when you have a battery that loses charge when not using it, and offer some helpful tips to help you keep your battery in good condition.
- Store Your Battery Properly
One of the main reasons batteries lose their charge when not in use is due to improper storage. If you are not using your battery for an extended period of time, it is important to store it in a cool, dry place. Avoid storing your battery in direct sunlight or near sources of heat, as this can cause the battery to lose its charge more quickly. You should also avoid storing your battery in an environment that is too cold, as this can also negatively affect its performance.
- Keep Your Battery Charged
Another important step in maintaining your battery’s charge is to keep it charged. This may seem counterintuitive, as you may think that keeping your battery charged all the time will cause it to wear out faster. However, this is not the case. In fact, letting your battery sit unused for long periods of time can actually cause it to lose its charge more quickly. To keep your battery charged, use it regularly, or charge it every few months to keep it topped up.
- Use a Smart Charger
When it comes to charging your battery, using a smart charger can be a game-changer. A smart charger is designed to charge your battery in a way that is optimized for its specific chemistry and capacity. This can help to maximize your battery’s lifespan, while also ensuring that it maintains its charge when not in use.
- Consider a Battery Tender
If you have a vehicle or other equipment that uses a battery, a battery tender can be a great investment. A battery tender is a device that is designed to maintain your battery’s charge over time. It works by keeping your battery at a steady charge level, which helps to prevent it from losing its charge when not in use. Battery tenders are particularly useful for seasonal equipment like motorcycles or boats, which may sit unused for long periods of time.
- Check for Parasitic Drains
If you have tried all of the above tips and your battery still seems to be losing its charge quickly, you may have a parasitic drain. A parasitic drain is a phenomenon where something in your vehicle or equipment is using power even when it is turned off. This can cause your battery to lose its charge more quickly than it should. To check for a parasitic drain, you can use a multimeter to measure the current draw when your vehicle or equipment is turned off. If you find that there is a significant current draw, you may need to have a professional diagnose and repair the issue.
In conclusion, if you have a battery that loses its charge when not in use, there are a few things you can do to minimize the impact of this issue. By storing your battery properly, keeping it charged, using a smart charger, using a battery tender, and checking for parasitic drains, you can help to extend your battery’s lifespan and ensure that it is always ready to go when you need it. With a little bit of effort, you can keep your battery in good condition and avoid the hassle and expense of replacing it prematurely.