It won’t be long before we are in the depth of winter, and muttering about how spring will never come. This is a good opportunity to write about putting starter batteries into storage. If you have a summer boat, a classic convertible or a motorcycle cruiser then our starter battery storage tips for winter are for you.

The Right Location for Starter Battery Storage

Starter batteries have similar temperature preferences to humans. They like to be cool and dry, and experience an annual average temperature of 15ºC / 60ºF. If you are researching storage for your treasured transport for winter and a location feels too hot or cold, keep looking.

That’s because lead-acid batteries drain down slowly even when not connected. They get into the habit of slowing down when they are cold, but can speed up when they are too hot. You don’t want your starter battery storage choice to cause either of these to happen. Moreover, a very hot storage location can cause excessive corrosion and sulfating, significantly reducing battery life.

Recharge the Starter Battery Regularly to Top It Up

High humidity is another factor to watch out for according to Battery World Varta. They say condensation on the battery surface can cause slight leakage between the terminals and faster discharge.

Lead-acid starter batteries do not like discharging completely. Their job is providing short bursts of intense power and then recharging steadily again. Starter battery storage should therefore begin with making sure the battery is in a full state of charge. Check it every two months after that. If the reading is lower than the maker’s recommendations then top it up using a battery charger.

Finally, do make sure the battery terminals are clean and rust free before storing your vehicle for winter. Applying some terminal grease will help keep them that way, all the way through to spring.

Improving Motorcycle Starter Battery Life

Charging a Starter Battery: Safety Tips

Preview Image: Restaurant Boats in Winter