What are the effects of overfilling battery water?
2 Answers
The effects of overfilling battery water are as follows: 1. Leakage: If leakage occurs in a battery group causing a short circuit between terminals and ground, there is a risk of fire. During charging, gas expansion inside the battery may cause diluted sulfuric acid to flow outside, potentially damaging other components of the electric vehicle. 2. Blockage of oxygen recombination channels: Reduced oxygen recombination capability leads to decreased charging acceptance, lower capacity, and shorter battery backup time. This also reduces the sulfuric acid density inside the battery, affecting battery capacity and internal resistance. Such situations become particularly evident when individual cells in a battery contain excessive acid or when multiple over-acidified batteries are used in a group.
I once added too much battery water to my car, not realizing such a small mistake could cause trouble. When the liquid overflows, it may corrode the metal parts and wires around the battery cover, leading to rust and short circuits. More dangerously, if the liquid splashes onto other engine components, it can cause small sparks or blow fuses, increasing fire risks. Additionally, an imbalanced electrolyte ratio affects the battery's overall performance, causing slow charging or uneven discharging, which shortens battery life in the long run. The solution is to immediately wipe off excess liquid with a cloth, rinse with clean water, and ensure the fluid level stays between the maximum and minimum marks. Now, during regular battery checks, I remind myself not to overfill—preferring to add less and adjust gradually—to avoid unexpected repairs and unnecessary expenses.