When it comes to storing a battery, whether it’s a car battery, a marine battery, or a deep cycle battery, it’s important to take certain precautions to ensure that it retains its charge and functionality. One of the most important things to consider when storing a battery is which side to disconnect. In this article, we’ll discuss the best practices for disconnecting a battery for storage and some tips for proper storage to help maximize its lifespan.
Why Disconnecting the Battery is Important for Storage
When a battery is left connected, even if it’s not being used, it can still slowly lose its charge. This is because there may be small amounts of parasitic drain from the connected electrical systems in the vehicle or equipment. By disconnecting the battery, you can prevent this drain and help the battery hold its charge for a longer period of time while in storage.Which Side of the Battery to Disconnect
When disconnecting a battery for storage, it’s important to know which side to disconnect first. In general, it is recommended to disconnect the negative (black) terminal first, and then the positive (red) terminal. This is because disconnecting the negative terminal first reduces the risk of a short circuit if the wrench or other tool accidentally touches the vehicle’s chassis while removing the positive terminal. Additionally, reconnecting the positive terminal first when taking the battery out of storage can help prevent sparking or electrical issues.
