FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

  • What exactly is the function of the starter batteries in the automobile?
  • How can we determine the real needs for electricity of in our own automobile?
  • What is the effect of the temperature on the operation of the starter battery?
  • How do I maintain the starter battery?
  • How do I charge the starter battery? Is this risky?
  • How could I find out if I need a new starter battery?
  • Recently I replaced my starter battery and in spite of this it is still non - operative. Where does the problem lie?
  • How often do I have to replace my starter battery?
  • I have electrical sources permanently switched on. Can this spoil the battery?
  • What must we know about keeping and charging of starter batteries?
  • Prevention of electrolyte spilling:
  • Fire and explosion hazards:
  • Fire and explosion hazards:
  • Fire safety measures:
  • Chemical intolerability:

    What exactly is the function of the starter batteries in the automobile?

    The main function of the starter battery is to provide the needed electricity to the starter, when you turn the starter key. Also, the starter battery must have enough power in order to maintain the engine operation for a short period of time (if the alternator does not work), sufficient to come home or reach the service facility. The starter battery must be capable of supporting some usages of electricity as well, which are not switched off by stopping the engine (such as lights, mobile phones, audio systems, stationary air-conditioners, etc.). Top

    How can we determine the real needs for electricity of in our own automobile?

    For a start, read the instruction manual for the use of your automobile. It features information about the class of the starter battery and its minimal capacity in Ampere - hours (Ah). You must not use a starter battery with a smaller capacity than required. In the case of older automobiles the use of a starter battery with a higher capacity can improve the start considerably and guarantees a longer life of the starter battery in general.Top

    What is the effect of the temperature on the operation of the starter battery?

    On one hand, heat causes faster evaporation of the electrolyte in the starter battery, and on the other it causes faster corrosion of the positively charged sections of the starter battery. Both lead to shortening its life of operation. Cold causes a severe reduction of the electricity transferred by the starter battery. At - 18°C only 40% of electricity is transferred of the normal amount supplied at 27°C. If the starter battery is not fully charged, the electrolyte liquid can freeze and damage the elements or its casing. A fully charged battery cannot freeze at temperatures above - 20°C.Top

    How do I maintain the starter battery?

    Check the poles of the battery once a year for traces of corrosion. Clean them with a water solution of sodium bicarbonate. Keep the lid of the starter battery clean and do not spill oil products on it. If necessary, use only distilled water for the cells. If the automobile is not in use for more than a month, charge the starter battery.Top

    How do I charge the starter battery? Is this risky?

    Handling the starter batteries must always be done with caution, whether charged or not. All lead - acid starter batteries contain corrosive sulphuric acid and generate explosive gases. Read carefully and follow all instructions on the stickers of the starter battery. The emission of oxygen and hydrogen is enhanced during charging. Adhere to the following instructions when charging the battery:

    Do not smoke and do not permit open flames and sparks in dangerous proximity of the starter battery;
    Switch off the charging device from the electric network before removing the cables from the poles and switching on. Be careful to connect the plus and minus cable to the respective battery poles;

    • Do not try to "move" the cables in order to be sure that the charging device is switched on;
    • Never try to charge a frozen starter battery;
    • Do not remove the caps of the starter battery;
    • Use protective glasses and clothes when charging the starter battery;
    • Strictly adhere to the instructions for use of the charging device. Top

    How could I find out if I need a new starter battery?Symptoms that the starter battery or the electrical system of the automobile are out of order:


    • Low revolutions or disconnection in the starter operation;
    • The controlling lamp of the starter battery on the panel remains on for a long time after ignition;
    • The starter battery loses power quickly after cold or warm start of the engine;
    • The lights of the automobile do not work.
    • Sometimes, though, the starter battery does not show signs of failure and at the same time does not operate normally. Top

    Recently I replaced my starter battery and in spite of this it is still non - operative. Where does the problem lie?

    The possibility of buying two defective batteries in a row is extremely small. If the starter battery has no apparent mechanical damage, if it charges normally and there are no deviations when checking the charge, the problem is obviously somewhere else. Answer the following questions:

    • Does the starter battery comply with the manufacturesr's requirements of your automobile?
    • Does it meet the requirements in the catalogue of the trader, where you bought it?
    • Are there any extra devices and systems mounted on the automobile, additionally mounted air - conditioner, extra halogen lights ? Such "extras" require a more powerful battery.
    • Is the battery properly installed, and are the clamps supported well?
    • Are the fuses of the automobile in order?
    • Is the electrical system of the autmobile in order? Top

    How often do I have to replace my starter battery?

    The starter battery life differs in various automobiles, in various regions and with different drivers. If you need more power, buy a starter battery with a greater capacity.Top

    I have electrical sources permanently switched on. Can this spoil the battery?

    This is common to modern automobiles. The electrical system accounts for this additional consumption. Nevertheless, when the automobile is not used for longer periods of time and when driven short distances, the starter battery does not charge sufficiently. If you only drive short distances and the electrical system is in order, it is recommended to re - charge the starter battery regularly.Top

    What must we know about keeping and charging of starter batteries?

    The starter batteries have to be stored in closed, cool, dry and ventilated premises, protected from direct atmospheric influence. The walls and the floor must be lined with waterproof surfaces and suitable for keeping and draining considerable quantities of spilled electrolyte. The storage and manipulation of the products should be carried out only with the availability of running water facilities, sewerage systems and reliable fire protection.Top

    Prevention of electrolyte spilling:

    The leakage of electrolyte must be stopped immediately. Small spills must be covered with sand or soil to absorb the liquid. If possible, the acid must be neutralized with sodium bicarbonate or calcium salt. Use a full set of protective clothes, described below. Don't allow draining of electrolyte into the sewerage system before neutralization! When using mechanical ventilation, use a system with components stable to acid. Check whatever the caps of the sections are well tightened to avoid the spilling of electrolyte. Avoid any contact with the internal battery elements.

    • Respiratory protection: not necessary under normal onditions
    • Protective gloves: made of rubber or nylon, acid-resistant, elbow-length.
    • Eye protection: Protective goggles or screen.
    • Other protective measures: Acid-resistant apron or other. In case of default use acid resistant clothes and boots.

    Fire and explosion hazards:

    • The hyrogen released during the charging of the starter batteries ignites easily.
    • Do not allow open flames and sparks in the vicinity of the starter batteries.
    • Do not allow metal objects too near the clamps of the starter batteries.
    • Strictly adhere to the manufacturer's instructions for installation.

    Fire safety measures:

    • If the starter battery is connected to the charging device, first disconect the mains;
    • Use only powder estinguishers for putting out the fire;
    • In fire extinguishing use only acid-resistant clothes.

    Chemical intolerability:

    Sulphuric acid: Any contact with easily flammable substances would cause a fire and an explosion. A vigorous reaction occurs in the reducing agents (antioxidants), metals, sulphur trioxide, strong oxidants and water. Contact with metals is extremely dangerous, as toxic vapours of sulphur dioxide and easily flamable hydrogens are formed.

    Lead components: Avoid contact with strong acids, bases, halogens, potassium nitrates, permanganate, peroxides, hydrogen and reducing agents.Top