Are you using the best type of battery for your car? Is it the most cost-effective? Does it have a long shelf-life? How long do you have to wait to charge it?
Reading about all the different car battery types can get a bit confusing. It would help to remember that there are five main types of car batteries, and they each come with their own pros and cons. If you are ever unsure about your battery type, feel free to contact one of our experts for more information.
What does the car battery do?
In its simplest form, the car battery is responsible for supplying electricity that then sends a message to your engine to start running. If this is drained or if it is not working properly, then the engine just will not run. It is important to maintain your battery in order to extend its life and replace it when necessary. Remember, that whenever you use your car radio or air-conditioning or even turn on the lights, that is you car’s battery you are using!
Make sure you always ask for advice before replacing or setting up your car battery.
What are the battery types?
- Absorbed Glass Mat (AGM): These heavy batteries have become more in demand lately due to the increasing demand for cold cranking amps and reserve charges. Unlike other lead batteries, this type has no excess electrolyte spilling, since it is stored within the glass mats.
- Calcium Battery: This battery is the most cost-effective and efficient type. Not only that, but because it uses calcium, it is also very low-maintenance and has a very long shelf-life. The downfall of this type is that it does take a long time to re-charge and that it must go through a periodic equalisation cycle in order to make sure it is functioning to its optimal standard.
- Deep Cycle Battery: This lead-acid battery requires a deep discharge which uses most of its capacity, unlike other starter batteries. Due to its lead components in place of sponges that other starter batteries have, this battery has less surface area resulting into less instant power.
- Spiral Coil Battery: This battery is similar to an Absorbed Glass Mat Battery, however, it is constructed in a different way. Their shelf-life can last up to 18 months and they are also less affected by any increase in heat or vibration.
- Gel Battery: True to its name, this battery’s acid is hardened to the texture of hard jelly. Due to its texture, this battery is very unlikely to ever spill its acid even when broken, making it easier to maintain. However, with excessive heat which could happen through excessive use or weather, the hardened jelly formation can melt, hence causing the acid to spill in that case, which in turn would damage the cell. It is also important charge it the correct way in order to avoid damaging it permanently. The correct way to charge this type of battery is through a conventional automotive charger.
Car Batteries Replacement Hamilton
If you ever have any questions or concerns about your car batteries, come straight to Grimmer Motors where we our skilled and experienced mechanics can test your battery, charge or even replace it when necessary!