HOW DO HEAT AND EXCESSIVE COLD AFFECT MY BATTERY?

Heat increases the rate of evaporation, which causes a loss of water from the electrolyte. Extreme heat also increases the rate of self-discharge and promotes the corrosion of the positive plate grids. Extreme cold dramatically reduces the speed at which chemical reaction can occur, while increasing electrolyte resistance. It is important to keep batteries at a full charge during periods of extreme cold. Those in a discharged state are susceptible to freezing, which can cause damage to the plates and container. Automobiles demand more from a battery in freezing temperatures as the motor oil thickens and makes the engine harder to crank. Heat is the number one killer of a battery. Although it increases the performance in the short-term, life is drastically reduced over time.