Can the Battery Be Charged When It's Overheated?
2 Answers
It is not advisable to charge the battery when it's overheated, and efforts should be made to avoid charging under such conditions. Reasons: Excessive temperatures can affect the lifespan of the battery. When the battery is in a high-temperature environment, its performance becomes unstable. For example, charging the battery immediately after exposure to intense sunlight or in a high-temperature setting with poor heat dissipation can shorten the battery's lifespan. The charging process itself generates temperatures above 40 degrees Celsius, and exposure to sunlight can cause the charger's thermal effects to go out of control, resulting in incomplete charging. Solutions: First, place the battery in a cool area for a period of time to allow the temperature to drop before charging. Regardless of whether the charger indicates a full charge, do not exceed 8 hours of charging to avoid battery swelling. When charging, ensure the charger is not placed on the vehicle or covered. If possible, charge the vehicle in a well-ventilated area. Functions of the Battery: When starting the engine, the battery supplies power to the starting system, ignition system, and electronic fuel injection system. When the engine is off or idling at low speed, it powers the vehicle's electrical devices. When the generator's output is insufficient, it assists in supplying power to the electrical devices. It mitigates voltage surges in the electrical system, protecting the vehicle's electronic equipment. Battery Maintenance Methods: Start the car periodically to charge the battery. When the electrolyte level is low, replenish it with distilled water or a specialized replenishment fluid. Regularly check the small vents on the battery cover to ensure they are clear. Inspect the battery's positive and negative terminals for signs of oxidation. Examine all parts of the circuit for signs of aging or short circuits. Turn off all electrical devices when leaving the vehicle.
I've encountered several cases of high battery temperature, and I'd like to remind everyone: charging at high temperatures really damages the battery. When the battery temperature is too high, the electrolyte evaporates extremely fast, just like boiling water, making it prone to water loss. The gases produced during charging can't escape, which may cause the battery casing to deform or even crack. Moreover, chemical reactions become abnormally intense under high temperatures, directly affecting battery lifespan. Once, I charged continuously for half an hour at noon in summer, and the casing felt scalding to the touch. Later, I noticed it had bulged. Now, I always wait until the battery temperature drops to around body temperature before charging. I'd rather wait an extra half hour than rush. Safe vehicle use shouldn't involve unnecessary risks.
