How to Troubleshoot Battery Chargers

Batteries may look like they can't hurt you, but they can cause severe burns. Batteries generate hydrogen gas which is highly explosive--a battery can explode even under normal operating conditions. Jump-starting your car or being short-circuited by a tool are possible situations when a battery explosion may occur. Batteries in storage can also explode. Look at the warnings in your battery charger manual. Read on to learn more.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Battery
• Battery charger
• Jumper cables

1. Pull on your protective eyewear glasses. It is important that you protect yourself from a battery explosion.

2. Supervise the use the battery charger—make sure there are no flames or items that create fire in the direct vicinity.

3. Add water to each battery cell before you hook up the charger—this will help to purge hydrogen gas from the cells.

4. Stand back from the battery whenever possible—try not to bend over to put the jumper cables in position—stay upright with your face as far away from the battery as possible.

5. Check the battery posts for acid corrosion--if they are corroded, do not touch them with your bare hand. Always carry your battery and the battery charger in a battery carrier.

6. Make sure you do not over-charge the battery. If the battery charger is left on too long there may be a loss of water and a build up of hydrogen gas.

7. Read all warnings on the battery, the battery charger and all products related to the process—it is important to take the time to read the instructions.

Tips & Warnings

• Make sure you are grounded when giving a charge to a battery.
• An extension cord should not be used unless absolutely necessary.
• Chargers must be grounded to reduce risk of electric shock.
• Never alter an AC power cord or the plug provided.
• Do not put flammable material on or under charger.

Resources

• Website for battery accessories.
• Comparison table for battery chargers.