Mistake #1

Failure to neutralize and clean batteries regularly

Consequences: All lead-acid batteries (even sealed valve-regulated "maintenance free") become acid and dirt covered in use. Electrolyte migrates through vents and porous lead posts. Battery gassing, charging, discharging, specific gravity checks, equalization of electrolyte, load testing, and watering will leave acid salts on the case. Electrolyte on the exterior can cause current to "run" across the battery causing it to overheat and, in some cases, to burn or explode. Finally, corrosion damage occurs and battery system performance deteriorates when neutralization and cleaning are overlooked.

Mistake #2

Neutralizing with dry alkaline chemicals

(like soda ash and bicarb)

Consequences: These chemicals have no detergent cleaning power. They react with acid to cause dangerous splatter and splash. Alkaline powders form a chemical paste. A white chemical stain results. Residual alkaline salts conduct current and cause unsafe shorts.

Mistake #3

Washing batteries with water only

Consequences: The electrolyte is diluted but not neutralized by water. Acid vapors fill the air. The acid is washed onto the floor and down the drain or into the soil. Environmental laws are violated and fines can result. Making floors and equipment wet with acidified water is a leading cause of corrosion damage.

Mistake #4

Cleaning with petroleum based chemicals

Consequences: These chemicals can be hazardous and flammable. Do not use mineral spirits, kerosene, acetone, vinyl top dressing, or lacquer thinner. Petroleum based chemicals can damage batteries and related equipment by cracking and crazing plastic and rubber. Petroleum distillates will not neutralize the acid. The clean-up waste is hazardous.

Mistake #5

Washing batteries with alkaline degreasers

Consequences: Common degreasers can damage battery plastics, rubber, paint, and metal. Their use may violate battery manufacturer warranty requirements. High pH alkaline cleaners are hazardous and should not be put down the drain. They are also unnecessarily hazardous to employees.