So Fix it

Gel cell batteries provide advantages over lead-acid wet cell batteries, but there are also safety hazards associated with them.

Differences Between "Wet" and "Gel" Cell Batteries

Lead-acid batteries are all similar; lead plates are connected in cells and surrounded by an acid that creates a chemical reaction resulting in an electrical voltage. Water must be added periodically to maintain a liquid level in a wet cell. A gel cell also contains acid, but it has been gelled and sealed in the battery case. No maintenance is needed. The battery may be placed in different positions without fear of leakage.

Charging Safety for Gel Batteries

If too high a charging voltage is applied, the case can be over-pressurized and can explode. A charger designed for gel batteries should always be used.

Other Safety Considerations

Never allow any open flames or smoking when charging gel cell batteries. Never allow the positive and negative terminals of the battery to be directly connected, for example from a dropped tool. The direct connection can result in an explosion. Replace leaking batteries. Protect your skin and eyes from acid.

A lead-acid battery is the most common 12-volt battery found in commercial vehicles and is the heart of the cars electrical system. If your battery is near the end of its life and you dont want to purchase a new battery, restoring the battery may be a viable option to consider. If you are in need of a quick and inexpensive solution for extending the life of your auto battery, there are a few easily-obtainable items at your local auto store that can help you do the job.

Instructions

1

Wear safety glasses and gloves. Handling car batteries can be dangerous because of the sulfuric acid, which can cause chemical injuries on the skin and eyes. Make sure the area you are working in is ventilated and away from any electrical or fire hazards.

2

Check to see that the car is turned off and nothing in the car is using the battery.

3

Carefully remove the battery by removing any screws, bars or clamps that are holding your battery in position. Batteries are heavier than they appear and can weigh between thirty to sixty pounds. Seek a helping hand if needed.

4

Remove the protective caps on top of the battery. The caps are generally made of plastic so that they cannot conduct into surrounding parts.

5

Drain all the fluid from within the battery by drilling the shadow plugs to open every battery cell. Shadow plugs indicate the location of each cell battery. Use a non-metallic container as a holder for the fluid when dumping it out.

6

Discard the old battery fluid by neutralizing it with 1 tablespoon of baking soda. Although some states allow you to pour your fluid down the drain or gutter after it has been neutralized, check your state regulations regarding discarding hazardous materials. Most states have recycle centers and collection sites designated to the disposal of hazardous waste.

7

Heat the distilled water to a warm temperature before mixing one-quart of three-fourth distilled water to one-fourth magnesium sulfate.

8

Funnel the solution back into each battery cell. Gently shake the battery to insure a proper distribution of chemicals in the battery.

9

Charge the battery with a three-phase battery charger, available at most hardware or auto parts stores The charger should be designed for acid batteries with a lead base. Begin charging by attaching the positive end of the charger to the positive terminal and negative lead to the negative terminal.

10

Turn on the charger. Make sure the settings are at 12 volts before leaving the battery to charge. After allowing the battery to charge for at least eight hours, turn off the charger and remove the leads.

11

Replace the caps back onto the battery holes and reinstall the battery in the car.