How to Recharge Optima Batteries
Optima batteries are used extensively in boats, tractors, cars and other vehicles. Optima batteries are a sealed lead acid battery designed for maximum electrical output. The are factory sealed so water cannot be added to the battery. Because of this you'll want to charge Optima batteries a little differently from the way that you charge most other batteries. Do not overcharge an Optima battery because it can result in overheating and the rapid degeneration of the battery.
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Things You'll Need
- A voltage-regulated battery charger
- Eye protection
- Baking soda
- paintbrush
- 1-pint container
Instructions
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1
Mix 2 tbls. of baking soda in 1 pint of water. Stir until the baking soda is dissolved.
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2
Clean any corrosion from battery by brushing the baking soda and water mixture around battery posts, and anyplace else that shows signs of corrosion. After applying baking soda, rinse with plain water. If cracks are found in the shell of the battery, then the battery should be discarded.
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3
Attach the positive (red) wire from your battery charger to the positive (+) pole of your Optima battery. Connect the negative (black) wire from from your battery charger to the negative (-) pole of the battery.
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4
Set your battery charger to 13.8 volts or 15 volts and make certain that it is set to a maximum of 10 amps. Put on your eye goggles. Plug in the charger and switch it on. Some models of battery charger begin operation as soon as they are plugged in without the need to switch them on.
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5
Allow the charger to charge your battery for a minimum of six hours. If the battery was deeply discharged before charging, it could easily take a 10 to 12 hour charge. Feel the battery with your hand every half hour or so for the first couple of hours to make certain the battery is not overheating. If the battery feels hotter than approximately 125 degrees F, then unplug your charger and remove the cables from the battery. Do not attempt to charge a battery that is overheating.
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6
Check your battery charger to see if your Optima battery has taken a full charge. The charger should indicate that the battery has a charge of between 11.8volts and 12.8 volts. If your battery is not accepting a full charge, that could indicate that the battery is getting weak and will soon need to be replaced.
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Tips & Warnings
Never try to remove the cell caps from an Optima battery. Monitor the temperature of your battery frequently when charging. If you cannot stand to leave you hand on the battery for more than five seconds, then the battery is too hot and discharging should be discontinued.
