If you’re like most people, your car is one of your most prized possessions. You rely on it to get you where you need to go, whether for work or for pleasure. So what do you do when your car is sitting in the driveway or garage for an extended period of time? You might be tempted to just let the battery die and deal with it later, but this can actually cause some major damage. In this blog post, we will discuss how to keep your car battery charged when not in use.
How do you keep a car battery charged when sitting?
A car battery is an important part of a car because it helps start the engine. If the battery isn’t charged, the engine will have a harder time starting. This can lead to problems like the engine not starting at all or the car not running very well. It’s important to keep the battery charged so that the car can run properly.
If your car will be sitting for a while, knowing the things that can help keep a car battery charged is key to making sure your car will start when you need it.
Disconnect the battery: One way of keeping car battery charged when not in use is to disconnect it from the car. This will prevent the battery from being drained by any accessories that may be turned on, such as the radio or lights. If you’re not going to be using the car for a while, it’s best to disconnect the battery.
Use a battery charger: Another way to keep a car battery charged is by using a battery charger. A battery charger will help keep the battery charged when not in use and can also help extend the life of the battery. There are many different types of battery chargers available, so be sure to choose one that is compatible with your car.
Keep electronics off: One way to help keep a car battery charged is by keeping electronics off. This includes things like the radio, lights, and any other accessories that may be turned on. When these items are turned on, they can drain the battery. If you’re not going to be using the car for a while, it’s best to keep all electronics.
Drive your car periodically. This will help keep the battery charged. Even if you’re just taking it for a short spin around the block, this will help keep the battery charged.
Keep a set of jumper cables: Another way to keep a car battery charged when not in use is by keeping a set of jumper cables. This will allow you to jump-start the car if the battery dies. It’s important to have jumper cables that are long enough to reach from the battery to the engine.
Install a battery tender. A battery tender is a device that plugs into your car and helps maintain the charge on your battery. This is a great option if you know you won’t be using your car for an extended period of time.
Knowing how to keep a car battery charged when not in use is important for keeping your car running properly. By following the tips listed above, you can help make sure your car starts up when you need it.
How long can a car battery sit unused?
It really depends on the make and model of the battery, as well as how it was stored. Generally speaking, if a battery is kept in a cool, dry place, it should be fine to sit unused for up to six months or more. But if it’s been stored in a hot or humid environment, that number goes down to around three months or less. And if it’s been completely discharged and not recharged during storage, then you’re looking at just one or two months before corrosion begins to form on the battery’s terminals.
If a battery is left unused for an extended period of time, it may not be able to hold a charge when you try to use it again. This is because the battery will discharge itself over time, even if it’s not being used.
When a battery discharges, the lead sulfate that forms on the plates inside the battery will start to solidify. As this happens, the ability of the plates to hold a charge diminishes, and eventually the battery can no longer store any electricity at all. If this happens, you’ll need to replace the battery.
These issues can be prevented as long as the battery is regularly used, even if it’s just a short drive around the block. Driving the car will help keep all of the parts moving and prevent them from getting too cold or too hot. It’ll also help to keep the battery charged, so you won’t have any problems when you go to use it again.
How long should I keep my car running to charge the battery?
It depends on the make and model of your car. Some cars only need a few minutes of running to charge the battery, while others require at least a half-hour. Check your car’s owner’s manual for specific instructions. In general, though, it’s best to err on the side of caution and run your car for a little longer than you need to. That way, you can be sure the battery is fully charged and won’t die on you when you need it most.
In conclusion, it is always important to know how to keep your car battery charged when not in use. By following the tips above, you can help make sure your car is always ready to go when you need it.