Lead-acid batteries should leave their factory fully-charged, although their energy will slowly drain even if left idle. This attrition will be much faster if we attach them to a load though, and it is not good for them to go completely flat. Today, we share tips on recharging lead-acid batteries. There are several different ways, and we’ll help you decide which method is best for you.
Chemical Processes While Recharging Lead-Acid Batteries
Recharging a lead-acid battery starts the moment we connect the battery and charger terminals, and switch the device on. Of course, we must use the right charger correctly, but we covered that aspect in a previous post – see link below. The process removes lead sulfate from the internal electrodes, and fine-tunes the electrolyte serving them.
Four Different Ways to Achieve the Same Goal
- Constant voltage delivers consistent pressure until the lead battery is fully replenished. This is the slowest method, yet one to consider if individual cells have different capacities, or residual charges remaining.
- Constant current, on the other hand can charge a number of batteries in series, at approximately 10% of their rating. This helps eliminate imbalances between batteries, but is also a slow process.
- Multi-step, consistent current-recharging gradually steps down the volume as the battery tops up. This helps avoid over-voltages, and other reactions that may shorten the life of the battery.
- Modified constant voltage current, likewise steps down the electricity delivered, until the battery is full. But it can continue at a low level if the battery is in storage, to counter the tendency to slowly discharge.
Safety First When Recharging Lead-Acid Batteries
Always recharge a lead-acid battery in well-ventilated space, because the process does generate flammable hydrogen. Check the label on each battery. This will tell you the correct current, and voltage to use. Use a cyclic method if you need to a quick-discharge, quick-recharge method. Chose the standby method if you want the battery ready to use, whenever you need it.
More Information
Charging and Discharging Lead-Acid Batteries
