If the Idaho heat is getting to you, it is likely affecting your car too. Counter to public knowledge, the hot summer temperatures have a more dangerous impact on your vehicle's battery than the freezing temperatures of winter. To truly understand the damage of overheating your battery, you first need to know how it functions within your car.
What Does Your Car Battery Do?
Your car's battery is an electrochemical device made out of electrodes that store an electrical charge. The battery is encased with sulfuric acid, and chemical reactions occur within the battery case to create electricity flowing throughout the car. In other words, it creates a current that is needed to start your car and power up the electrical features of your vehicle (radio, lights, seating adjustments, etc.).
How Does Heat Affect the Battery?
Heat can have numerous adverse effects on your battery. Whenever your car is exposed to temperatures higher than 80 degrees Fahrenheit, it is at risk of internal decay. Also, the hot climate can evaporate the sulfuric acid in the battery. The deterioration of acid can stop the functionality of the battery altogether - leading to a breakdown.
Ways to Prevent Damage to Your Battery
Though it is impossible to control the weather, you can take preventative measures to prolong your battery life. We encourage that you follow our tips to protect your car battery better this summer.
- Park your car in the shade or a garage. You should keep it away from direct sunlight as much as possible. It will prevent the acid from evaporating and any other damage.
- Keep the battery clean.Over time, contaminants can build up and drain the battery. It is recommended that you wipe it with a clean cloth or paper towel frequently.
- Have your battery inspected by an expert technician at the beginning of the summer.We invite you to take your vehicle to our specialists at Oswald's Service & Repair for an inspection to ensure your battery is in operating condition.
Our experts are prepared to inspect your car's battery and other vital parts to ensure that your vehicle is ready to take on the summer heat. Give us a call for service or schedule an appointment online with us today!