What is Sulfation and How Does it Affect My Battery?
Why do batteries get old and fail, and is there any way to avoid this? While it would be amazing to have a battery that will last the lifetime of your device or equipment, the truth is that no battery lasts forever. The key cause is sulfation.
Sulfation occurs when the electrolyte solution begins to break down. Sulfur in the solution essentially leaches from the electrolyte and sticks to the lead plates as converted lead sulfuric crystals. These crystals coat the plates and prevent them from doing their job the next time you power up. At the same time, the electrolyte solution becomes weaker because it then lacks the sulfuric acid that has converted to crystals, which then interferes with the ability of the battery to accept, hold and deliver a charge.
Stage One of sulfation may be an initial form that reduces quick starting but will be absorbed back into the electrolyte when charged. With more time, sulfation progresses and a battery may require a greater charge. The final stage is when the battery is simply not able to be charged at all.
While lack of regular use certainly contributes to the build-up of sulfation, it isn’t true that batteries won’t develop the sulfation if always kept fully charged. In truth, all lead-acid storage batteries, including the new sealed “dry batteries,” will develop sulfate during their lifetime. Batteries that are overcharged, undercharged and left discharged can develop sulfate.
So, how do you avoid sulfation? Proper maintenance and your use will extend the life of your battery. In addition, utilizing a desulfator will also prevent and reverse the effects of sulfation and save you lots of money! Desulfators use patented pulse technology to gently break down and remove hard crystallized sulfur deposit so that your battery can receive a full charge and provide optimum power output once again. Impact Battery stocks and sells and a variety of PulseTech Chargers and Desulfators. Consider it an upfront investment to keep your battery working in peak performance, and save you money in the long run.
Update: Other Resources Regarding Battery Sulfation
FAQs answered: Battery Desulfation Frequently Asked Questions
Blog, first published 2011-07-08: Real Life Story About the PulseTech Xtreme Desulfating Charger XC100-P
Blog, first published 2013-02-22: Questions Regarding Whether or Not Battery Desulfators Work.
Product information: Impact Battery Sulfation Removal Products
