How to Clean Battery Terminal Corrosion and Keep It Away
Battery terminal corrosion might seem like a minor annoyance, but it can lead to significant issues if left unchecked. Whether you're dealing with a car, RV, or any other battery-powered device, keeping the terminals clean is crucial for optimal performance and longevity. In this blog post, we'll take you on a journey to show you how to properly handle and maintain your battery terminals to make your battery performance last longer! Let's dive right in.
Why Does Battery Terminal Corrosion Matter?
Battery terminal corrosion can cause several problems. It reduces electrical conductivity, acting as a barrier between the battery and the terminals, which leads to poor performance. This can make it difficult for cars to start or devices to work efficiently. Corroded terminals can also cause a parasitic drain, leading to a faster loss of charge and more frequent battery replacements or recharges.
Over time, unchecked corrosion can damage the battery terminals and connections, leading to costly repairs or replacements. Severe corrosion can even cause overheating and short circuits, posing safety risks. Understanding the importance of addressing battery terminal corrosion is the first step toward maintaining your battery’s health and ensuring your devices run smoothly.
What Causes Battery Terminal Corrosion?
Several factors contribute to battery terminal corrosion. One common cause is electrolyte leakage, which can occur due to overcharging or damage to the battery casing. The acidic electrolyte reacts with the metal terminals to form corrosion. Exposure to air and moisture can also cause oxidation, especially in humid environments.
As batteries age, they are more prone to developing leaks and other issues that lead to corrosion. Overcharging can cause the battery to overheat and leak, resulting in corrosion. Additionally, terminals made from certain metals, like copper, are more prone to corrosion due to their reactive nature. Knowing the causes of battery terminal corrosion can help you take preventive measures to minimize its occurrence.
How to Clean Battery Terminal Corrosion
Cleaning battery terminal corrosion is straightforward but requires precautions and the right tools. Here's a streamlined five-step guide:
- Gather Supplies and Ensure Safety: Get gloves, safety goggles, a wire brush or toothbrush, baking soda, water, a wrench, and petroleum jelly or terminal protectant spray. Ensure the device is turned off. For car batteries, turn off the engine and remove the keys.
- Disconnect the Battery: Use a wrench to loosen the nuts on the battery terminals. Disconnect the negative terminal (black) first, then the positive terminal (red).
- Clean the Corrosion: Mix a tablespoon of baking soda with a cup of water. Dip the brush into the solution and scrub the corroded areas. The solution will fizz as it neutralizes the acid.
- Rinse and Dry: Rinse the terminals with clean water and dry them thoroughly with a clean cloth.
- Reconnect and Protect: Reconnect the positive terminal first, then the negative terminal. Apply a thin layer of petroleum jelly or terminal protectant spray to the terminals to prevent future corrosion.
How to Prevent Battery Terminal Corrosion
Prevention is key to avoiding corroded battery terminals. Regular maintenance is essential; periodically check your battery terminals for signs of corrosion and clean them if necessary. Use terminal protectors, such as felt washers soaked in anti-corrosion compounds, to prevent corrosion. Applying a thin layer of petroleum jelly on the terminals creates a protective barrier against moisture and air.
Avoid overcharging your battery. Ensure your charger is functioning correctly and avoid overcharging, which can lead to leaks and corrosion. Keeping the battery and the area around it dry is crucial, as moisture can accelerate corrosion. Lastly, choosing quality batteries is important. Investing in high-quality batteries with good seals can reduce the risk of leaks and corrosion. By taking these preventive measures, you can extend the life of your battery and ensure it operates efficiently.
Conclusion
Battery terminal corrosion might be a common issue, but it can be managed with proper care and attention. Understanding why it matters, what causes it, how to clean it, and how to prevent it can save you time, money, and headaches. So, next time you pop the hood or open the battery compartment, give those terminals a quick check and keep corrosion at bay. And feel free to visit WEIZE to learn more about battery maintainment!
