Flooded lead acid batteries have been the workhorses of energy storage and generation for more than 150 years. In addition to being durable and long-lived, they are often the most affordable (and recyclable) option for powering golf carts, UTVs, industrial equipment, boats and RVs, solar panels, and much more.

With the right safety, cleaning, and watering maintenance, flooded lead acid batteries can provide long life and high performance. Our experts put together this checklist of maintenance tips to help you get the most out of your Trojan flooded batteries.

SAFETY AND FLOODED BATTERIES

• Always wear protective clothing, gloves and goggles when handling batteries
• If acid contacts your skin or eyes, flush with water immediately
• keep flames, sparks and metal objects away from batteries
• Charges batteries in a well-ventialated area
• To avoid short circuits do not lay objects on top of battery
• Check that all cable conections to the terminal are properly tightened, connections that are too tight or too loose could result in breakage, and meltdown or fire

INSPECTING AND CLEANING FLOODED BATTERIES

• Keep batteries clean and dry
• Check that all vent caps are tight
• Use a solution of baking soda and water to clean flooded lead acid batteries if there is acid residue or corrosion on the terminals
• Protective spray or petroleum jelly should be applied to terminals to reduce corrosion

STORING FLOODED BATTERIES

• Batteries should be fully charged prior to and during storage
• Never store discharged batteries
• Store batteries in a cool, dry place
• Recharge batteries before putting them back into service

WATERING FLOODED BATTERIES

• ADD WATER, NEVER ACID, TO CELLS (distilled water recommended)
• DO NOT OVERWATER.
• Before charging the batteries, only add water if the plates are exposed
• Add just enough water to cover the plates, then charge the batteries.
• Once fully charged, add water to the proper level as indicated below (Diagram A)
• For fully charged standard deep-cycle batteries, add water to level of 1/8” (3 mm) below bottom of vent well (Diagram B)
• For fully charged Plus Series™ batteries, add water to the maximum water level indicator
• After watering, secure vent caps back on batteries.
• For faster, easier and safer battery watering, explore Trojan’s HydroLink™ Watering System.