Dry pre-charged batteries must be filled with battery acid and charged before installation.

Wet deep-cycle batteries in armoured plate or tubular plate technology are designed for the most severe loads. Due to their structure, the tubular plates used provide a larger surface area compared to grid plates and thus more active mass for the chemical reaction. These batteries are extremely resilient, very resistant to vibration and have a very high cycle stability. With a depth of discharge of up to approx. 80 %, they can be charged and discharged up to 1,000 times, making them perfect for demanding solar applications.

Wet (flooded) deep-cycle lead-acid batteries with grid plates are particularly suitable for small and medium-sized solar applications and wind turbines thanks to their good capacity absorption and maximum capacity reserves. Grid plate technology is robust and mature and ideally suited for low loads, for example in the hobby and camping sector. Available in 6-volt and 12-volt versions, with approx. 300 and 700 cycles respectively.

Even before the engine is started, the starter battery has to do a lot and supply standard equipment such as the lighting system. This draws current from the battery, which is no longer available for starting. Nowadays, there are also a number of consumers that draw current before starting or while driving: Every electrical control element, every sensor and many measuring instruments need electricity to do their work. Also heaters and every mobile device that is permanently or temporarily connected to the vehicle. Add up all these consumers and the question arises: Is the current supplied by the alternator while driving enough to power all these consumers and charge the battery? In order to check this, it is best to meticulously list all the consumers that are installed, especially all those that you have additionally installed, integrated or connected. And find out how much current they require in amperes (A). Batteries often have an Ah-value, which tells you how much current in amperes (A) the battery can supply for a certain duration in hours (h). Of course under optimal conditions.

Wet deep-cycle batteries in armoured plate or tubular plate technology are designed for the heaviest loads. Several tubes, in which the active mass is quasi "armoured", are joined together to form plates. This design makes them extremely resilient and more cycle resistant than batteries with grid plates with the same battery box size. With up to 1,000 cycles at 80 % depth of discharge, they are suitable for heavy professional, cyclic use.

The most important distinction is that sealed batteries and especially lithium batteries can react extremely to the heat and overpressure during overcharging. A reliable cut-off is particularly important here. Modern fully automatic electronic chargers can charge all lead-acid starter and motorcycle batteries from wet batteries from antimony (Pb/Sb) to hybrid (Sb/Ca) to calcium batteries (Ca/Ca) and EFB start-stop batteries to fleece batteries AGM, SLA and HVT also start-stop batteries as well as GEL batteries. Some of them have a 14.7 volt switch to provide a higher charging voltage for calcium starter batteries, for example. Some of these chargers also support lithium batteries. To be on the safe side, however, it is always advisable to look at the battery manufacturer's charging procedure recommendation. It is also necessary to obtain binding values for charging voltage (in volts) and charging current (in amps). For traction batteries, batteries in safety systems and other local supply batteries, especially in commercial use, we recommend high-frequency chargers, which provide several characteristics, each exactly to the type of battery used. Here, too, a look at the battery manufacturer's charging recommendations is mandatory.

In principle, when charging, the electrons within the battery move from one electrode to the other, in the opposite direction to when they draw current, i.e. discharge. If a discharged battery is provided with too high a voltage from the current or voltage source, the temperature inside the battery will rise too much (due to the friction of the electrons moving at the same time) and the mechanical stress can cause active material to detach from the electrodes and fall to the ground (forming battery sludge). Thus, the performance of the battery suffers and cell closure may occur.

Each battery technology has particular strengths, but also weaknesses. Depending on the requirements your battery has to meet in the respective application, or which properties you want, some battery technologies are more suitable or less suitable. It is important to weigh up the properties.

The classic lead-acid battery in the closed, low-maintenance design is suitable for the light operation of golf caddies, wheelchairs, cleaning machines, mobile lifting platforms or light industrial trucks. With the best price-performance ratio, good high-current characteristics and relative cycle stability, grid plate batteries are long-lasting and always a good choice.

Lithium-ion technology is the current top technology in the battery sector and a must for two-wheelers for whom space requirements and weight play a role, e.g. in racing or on long off-road tours. All technically highly equipped and upgraded motorcycles as well as jet skis, snowmobiles or ride-on lawnmowers that need to be ready for action quickly at any time are also well served by this. Thanks to the adapter pads (included), you can cover 90% of all common motorcycle battery types with 10 different lithium batteries.

A battery that is not fully charged when installed will not reach its full performance in the future and will have a significantly shortened service life. Lithium batteries can also lose charge during storage. We recommend that you also fully charge them before installation. You can find out how to do this in our step-by-step guide to charging your battery.

The lead-acid battery with fixed electrolyte for all those whose motorcycle is subjected to particular stress due to shocks or vibrations. Designed to meet the demands of Harley-Davidson motorcycles with large displacement 2-cylinder V-engines, HVT batteries are extra robust, particularly resistant to vibration and absolutely leak-proof. They are also suitable for motorcycles with a high demand for electrical energy and special applications such as ABS (e.g. BMW) and use in snowmobiles and jet skis.

How much time does your battery normally have to charge? If your journeys are never shorter than 100 km, this is different from if you regularly only drive distances of 1 - 2 km. The alternator charges the battery with a steady, low current. It takes some time to compensate for the high current drain at the start. It is difficult to predict how long this will take with your vehicle and your driving style. However, we recommend choosing a battery that starts well even when partially discharged and that has good charging characteristics, i.e. it recovers the current quickly, especially for short journeys. If you mainly drive short distances, we have compiled some information about what happens in the battery and how you can prevent this: What is sulfation and what can you do about it.

Electronic chargers can support different voltages. Depending on whether you only want to charge a car starter battery or also a scooter, motorhome supply battery or drive battery for small vehicles or industrial trucks, it may be worth reaching for a charger that supports batteries with different voltages.

We recommend: Check the charge level every 2 - 3 months if ... ... the vehicle is often left unused. ... you drive a lot of short distances. ... many consumers are installed. ... it is cold. ... in start-stop systems the engine does not switch off as intended when the vehicle stops. Check at the latest when ... ... the vehicle starts sluggishly, ... or the performance of the battery drops noticeably If you want to know at any time whether you need to recharge your battery: Simply monitor the state of charge with the intAct Battery-Guard.

Every battery loses power over time. If it is loaded normally and is always fully charged, the capacity is slowly reduced. If it is often overloaded and insufficiently charged, the capacity is reduced much more quickly, i.e. the battery ages much faster. Ideally, current drain (load) and current consumption (charge) should be in balance. This prevents the battery from ageing prematurely.

This battery is maintenance free after initial charging. In this it differs from other dry pre-charged batteries which are low maintenance. Due to the AGM technology, only a little gas is produced in the battery, which is discharged via the safety valve. So almost no liquid is lost. It cannot and must not be opened again.

Absolutely maintenance-free batteries are valve-regulated lead-acid batteries or VRLA batteries (VRLA = Valve Regulated Lead-Acid) that are sealed at the factory. Here, significantly less gas is produced than in wet batteries. The gas produced remains in the circuit of the battery due to gas recombination. As a result, these batteries lose significantly less liquid. They do not need to be topped up, and it is not even possible to do so, as they cannot be opened again without damage.

Before the winter or summer break, it is best to remove the battery or at least disconnect it and store it in a cool (ideally at 10 to 15 °C) and dry place. Charge every 4 to 6 weeks for 24 to 48 hours with a suitable charger. Check the state of charge at the latest at the start of the season and preferably charge overnight.

As with supply batteries, traction batteries are used in cyclic applications, i.e. the batteries are used until they are quite empty and are charged during idle times. Here, the charger is part of an effective drive application. The efficiency of the charger plays an important role, especially in operational scenarios where the downtimes of vehicles and machines such as forklifts or lifting platforms mean a loss of revenue. Equally important are the individual requirements of the operating environment, e.g. vehicles in cold storage have to be charged under extreme temperatures: Chargers like the Fronius Selectiva have a charging process adapted to Cold Logistics that warms the battery before charging. Or they have to operate in particularly harsh environments: The chargers in the inbatt N series are dust and splash-proof and designed for onboard use. With the chargers in our range, we have made our choice for you for many areas of application. For the optimal matching of battery and charger, especially in multi-shift, business-critical applications, we recommend an individual battery system concept from our industrial division inbatt. Including services such as assembly, leasing, battery care, etc.

Markings on the outside of the white or transparent housing of a wet battery indicate the minimum (MIN) and maximum (MAX) fill levels. During commissioning or initial filling, the battery must be filled with battery acid up to the upper mark (MAX). During subsequent maintenance, the battery should be refilled with distilled water up to the MAX mark.

Low-maintenance, flooded lead-acid batteries lose fluid during normal use. They must be maintained, i.e. the fluid level should be checked regularly and the fluid loss compensated with distilled water if necessary. These batteries usually have vent caps on the top and vent holes as well as a vent hose. It is also advisable to check regularly whether liquid has overflown during heavy charging, as acid can lead to corrosion and damage the cables or the vehicle. In contrast, maintenance-free batteries leak almost no fluid. They don't have vent caps on the top, but a lid that you can't open. In some cases, there is a labyrinth in the lid where rising vapor is condensed and returned to the system. These closed batteries lose liquid if they are tilted heavily or used or charged improperly. Absolutely maintenance free batteries are designed to produce extremely little gas. The gas produced remains in the circuit of the battery by gas recombination, excess pressure is prevented by a safety valve. Because of this valve, these batteries are also called valve-regulated lead-acid batteries or VRLA batteries. These batteries do not lose liquid during normal operation. Refilling is also not possible, because the battery cannot be opened!

Tip: For full performance: Charge before first installation! 1. preparation Check that your charger matches the battery. Does the charger support the correct charging voltage? Does the charging current provided match the battery? What charging curve does your battery need? Disconnect the battery from the vehicle, if possible remove it. Tips on how to proceed Check the battery from the outside for damage. What to look for If you want to charge a low-maintenance battery: Make sure it is completely filled - to MAX! Pay attention to the safety instructions. If possible, charge the battery open! Why? Ensure good ventilation when charging and avoid sparks! Explosive gases can be generated. 2. loading Attach clamps to the battery. IMPORTANT: Always attach the red wire/clamp to the positive terminal first, then attach the black wire/clamp to the negative terminal. A short circuit with sparking or arcing is life-threatening. It will also cause lasting damage to the battery. Connect the charger to the socket. Switching on the charger If the charger does not automatically make the correct settings: Adjust the voltage and select the charging characteristic. Charging the battery While charging, observe the LED, display or other indicator of the charger. Is the battery charging as desired? Switch off the charger. Disconnect charger from power supply. Disconnect charger. In reverse order, i.e. first disconnect the black cable/clamp from the negative terminal, then remove the red cable/clamp from the positive terminal. 3. install Reinstall the battery. Note the order!

Emergency and rescue vehicles and other safety-related types of vehicles often sit around for months, but when it comes down to it, they need to be ready at a moment's notice to put out fires, rescue injured people or clear roads. Chargers like the Fronius Acctiva-Twin can charge two 12-volt batteries in parallel, even if the batteries have been loaded differently by consumers.

The "wound" grid of the round cell battery combines the advantages of a supply battery with good starting characteristics in a relatively small space. The battery has good recharge behaviour after deep discharge and good cyclic behaviour (approx. 300 cycles at 80% depth of discharge). With a constant power quality during the entire discharge process, it is particularly suitable for light use in wheelchairs, golf caddies, mobile habe platforms, car hi-fi systems and boats.

Depending on the type, this battery is low-maintenance or maintenance-free. Low maintenance version - TV types {wissen:wartungsarm} Low-maintenance design - GUG types {wissen:wartungsfrei}

A battery that is not fully charged when installed will not reach its full capacity in the future and will have a significantly shortened service life. Even factory-filled and charged batteries can lose charge during storage. We recommend that you also fully charge them before installation. You can find out how to do this in our step-by-step guide to charging your battery.

The plates in a battery will corrode if they are not completely covered by battery water. Reasons for corrosion Sealing damaged before filling in dry pre-charged batteries Closed, low-maintenance batteries such as the intAct Bike-Power Classic are dry pre-charged (TV), sealed and delivered with acid pack. The seal preserves the pre-charge and protects against oxidation. Precaution: The seal must only be removed directly before filling and use. If it is damaged, the battery must be refilled immediately and treated as a filled and charged battery from then on. Insufficient maintenance During normal operation, sealed, low-maintenance batteries lose minimal fluid. From the time of initial filling, their level must be checked regularly and topped up with distilled water if necessary. Because they are not sealed, they can also leak and thus lose fluid, e.g. if a motorcycle falls over. Precaution: Regular maintenance, at least every 2 to 3 months. Damaged housing If the housing is leaking, cracked or chafed, this indicates destruction by external influences. Note: Sealed batteries cannot be topped up, but they can also lose fluid, e.g. through a damaged battery box. Precaution: Avoid damage to the battery box and check it regularly. Excessively high temperatures, during operation or charging If temperatures are too high, a battery may use too much water. Some batteries are more heat resistant than others. Overcharging a battery due to improper charging, e.g. with an unsuitable charger or faulty alternator/alternator regulator, also leads to extremely high water consumption. If the housing is deformed by heat or even burst open, this points to a defective charge controller or incorrect charger. Detached labels also indicate high temperatures, during charging or in the vicinity of the battery. Precaution: Check that your charger matches the battery and make sure it is working properly. If you charge your battery via the alternator, especially while driving, have a professional check that the charge controller is working correctly. Select a battery that is less sensitive to temperature. If you plan to use your battery in a hot environment or if your traction battery has little time to cool down before charging, you should use a battery that handles high temperatures well, such as an Oddysey Extreme.

Transformer chargers with a downstream rectifier are relatively inexpensive, but they are large, heavy and less efficient than high-frequency chargers. They allow 1- to 3-step charging methods based on the W-characteristic (W, Wa, WaPuls, W0Wa, WU, WUWa etc.). Without automatic cut-off, transformer chargers are not recommended under any circumstances. They are mainly suitable for wet batteries. High-frequency chargers (HF) or also primary switched-mode power supply chargers enable numerous charging methods, even with many charging phases or charging stages in one unit, e.g. gentle voltage start-up possible, so-called soft start. Due to the microprocessor control and external interfaces, special characteristics per operation or individual characteristics per battery are also programmable. They can be used for different voltages and capacity ranges. The charging times are shorter here, with higher efficiency, usually over 94 % and thus up to 15 % more than 50 Hz transformer chargers. HF chargers are up to four times smaller and significantly lighter, have lower heat generation and lower water consumption. Battery data and charging history can be read out via integrated interfaces, which is the prerequisite for effective battery and charging system management.

In a battery or accumulator, the chemical reaction between the active material of the grids and the acid generates current (electrons emitted) to supply the loads or stores current (electrons) provided by the charger or alternator. If the acid only partially covers the grids, only the lower part of the grids can react with the acid. In the short term, less current is generated, in the medium to long term, the battery sulphates and breaks down.

If the vehicle is stationary for long periods and you make a lot of short journeys, it is advisable to charge the battery regularly with a charger, even if the battery has a low self-discharge rate or high cold-start performance. The exact intervals depend on your driving style, the weather and your vehicle.

Starter batteries primarily have to start the vehicle. To do this, they must deliver as much current as possible during the starting process, so the battery's high-current characteristics are important. The cold cranking amps (CCA) value provides information about the starting performance. It indicates the maximum current that the battery can provide for 30 seconds under optimum conditions. Depending on what kind of vehicle you want to start, more or less starting power is needed. A large capacity construction vehicle needs more power than a modern scooter. Our battery finder suggests the batteries that match the starting power of your vehicle.

Especially for modern motorcycles with many electrical consumers and ABS, the gel batteries are intended (the acid is specified here as gel). They bring 30% more starting power than conventional batteries of the same box size with very low self-discharge, are very vibration-resistant and can be installed at an angle (up to 90°) due to the sealed design. With just a few battery types, they cover a wide range of motorcycle types and are also suitable for use in modern scooters, snowmobiles and jet skis.

The tilt angle information on your battery tells you how to install it without leaking battery acid. Why is this important? To protect your battery, your machine and yourself. Battery acid is highly corrosive and can damage your vehicle, including metal parts and electronics. Flooded batteries with plugs like the intAct Bike-Power Classic can only be installed upright. AGM motorcycle batteries, where the electrolyte is not liquid but bound in the glass fibre mats, differ, depending on whether they are sealed at the factory. The intAct Bike-Power AGM for example is sealed only after the first filling, it can be installed at an angle up to 45°. The intAct Bike-Power SLA and the intAct Bike-Power HVT are our factory sealed AGM batteries. They can be installed at an angle of up to 90° without leaking. In GEL batteries the electrolyte is immobilized by a gel-additive. Both our intAct Bike-Power GEL and the intAct Bike-Power GEL HVT-HD are also sealed at the factory and can be installed at an angle of up to 90° without leaking. In lithium batteries like our intAct Bike-Power Lithium there is no liquid electrolyte. They cannot leak and can therefore be installed upside down without hesitation.

A battery that is not fully charged when installed will not reach its full performance in the future and will have a significantly shortened service life. Immediately after the first filling with acid, dry pre-charged batteries only reach 75 to 80 % of their rated power. They must therefore be charged before installation. Even factory-filled and charged batteries can lose charge during storage. We recommend that they are also fully charged before installation. You can find out how to do this in our step-by-step guide to charging your battery.

Never change a running system. The classic lead-acid battery is suitable for almost all motorcycles and scooters and is the best choice if your customer wants a low-cost, high-performance starter battery and does not need to power additional equipment. You get reliable starting power in 12 or 6 V, coupled with long life, matched to the loads of normal motorcycle use. Our classic motorcycle batteries are dry pre-charged and come with an acid pack included, which means they can be stored almost indefinitely before being filled.

Ideally, batteries should be kept dry. Even slight moisture can promote leakage currents. If you've noticed condensation on your battery frequently in the past, such as with temperature fluctuations, or water can get to your battery, it's worth considering a splash-proof battery. Whether and what protection a battery offers against dust and water is indicated by the protection class according to the IP code. Many types of our intAct Bike-Power Lithium motorcycle battery and the intAct Lithium-Power supply battery are splash-proof and jet-proof or even waterproof. You can find the exact specifications for each type.

Depending on the type of battery, it is designed for certain loads: Starter batteries must deliver as much current as possible during the starting process. The cold start current, measured in CCA, is informative here and shows how much starting power the battery can provide under optimum conditions. Commercial vehicles such as heavy trucks or construction vehicles with particularly large displacement engines require more starting power (under the same ambient conditions) than small passenger cars. In the case of motorcycle batteries, too, starting power is the most important factor, and this with much smaller installation dimensions. Heavy 2-cylinder motorcycles from Harley-Davidson, for example, require more starting power than a ride-on lawnmower. You can find the required cold start power on your old battery. Cyclic batteries, as supply batteries, must primarily supply the connected electrical consumers for a long time and, as traction batteries power the respective vehicles or machines for a long time. In order to select a battery that is suitable for the load, the storage capacity is important. It is specified in Ah and represents how much current (in amperes = A) and for how long (in hours h) a fully charged battery can deliver under ideal conditions (uniform temperature, etc.). With these batteries, it is therefore a matter of the constant, permanent current output. How many Ah your battery should have depends on what you want to drive with the battery. You can find help for the calculation in our sections traction batteries or supply batteries.

To ensure proper battery function, it makes sense to keep the battery surface clean and dry. Greasy or silicone-containing dirt on the lid can hinder the flow of current. Moisture on the battery can cause a short circuit in the worst case.

If the battery box is damaged or deformed, replace the battery. Clean dirty terminals with a wire brush. Remove oils, fluids or other deposits. For batteries with plugs, check fluid level and refill to MAX with distilled water if necessary.

In these valve regulated batteries, the acid is bound in fleece (Absorbent Glass Mat). They lose very little liquid and are absolutely maintenance-free when sealed at the factory. AGM batteries, which come with an acid pack, are maintenance free after initial filling. They are less sensitive to vibrations than classic batteries, provide a higher safety reserve and are well suited for vehicles in year-round use.

When choosing a battery, it basically depends on what it is to be used for. The most important distinction is between starter batteries, including motorcycle batteries, and cyclic batteries such as traction or supply batteries. Starter batteries, including motorcycle batteries, primarily have to start the vehicle. Cyclic batteries power appliances for as long as possible before recharging: Traction batteries supply power to electric motors while supply batteries provide power to electrical loads independent of the power grid. However, there are also hybrids between starter batteries and cyclic batteries, i.e. batteries that can do both. Examples of these are: Starter batteries that also supply electrical consumers when the engine is not running in the motorcycle, car or commercial vehicle and the alternator is not supplying power, these are mainly but not only start-stop batteries. Supply batteries that also have good starting properties, for example to start the engine on sailboats or in UPS systems in the event of a power failure a diesel generator, so-called dual-purpose batteries.

Low-maintenance batteries can be recognised by the removable sealing plugs on the top, the vent hose and the white or transparent housing. In these batteries, the electrolyte is in liquid form, i.e. it is not bound as GEL or in fleece. They are not sealed at the factory, but are activated by the addition of battery acid prior to installation. During normal operation they lose liquid. To compensate for the loss of fluid promptly and to avoid damage to the battery, we recommend checking the fluid level every 3 months and, if necessary, refilling the battery with distilled water up to the mark (MAX). Tip: In case of excessive water consumption: Check battery box for leakage. Have the function of the charge controller checked by a specialist.

In a nutshell, the battery generates electricity, which it delivers to the consumers. It is charged and is ready again. So far, so good. Meanwhile, a bit of chemistry happens inside the battery. Current flow In principle, current flows between a positive and a negative terminal (the two electrodes) as soon as they are connected to a consumer (e.g. the starter motor) or a charger. Discharge process During this process, the active material (PB or PbO2) on the electrodes reacts with the sulfuric acid used, the electrolyte (SO4), and lead sulfate (PbSO4) is formed, which is deposited on the electrodes and the acid loses density. The battery is discharged. Charging process During charging, most of the chemical process is reversed, most of the lead sulfate dissolves again and lead, lead dioxide and sulfuric acid are formed again. Because some lead sulfate always remains, the battery gradually ages.

User chargers or consumer chargers are particularly easy to use and easy to maintain. They allow quick charging in between or when the battery is stored for a longer period of time before it is used again, e.g. a starter battery in a classic car that is only driven in summer or a small supply battery for camping. Chargers like the DEFA Smartcharge get by with just one button, determine all the technical details independently and show the status of the charging process via LEDs or a display. Consumer chargers can be used for starter batteries with 6, 12 or 24 volts in all private and commercial vehicles.

Only conventional, wet batteries need a vent hose, because they gas strongly during operation. The resulting steam can escape through the openings in the plugs. To prevent the vapour from damaging the vehicle, conventional batteries are vented to the outside via a vent hose. AGM or GEL based batteries do not gas much. Most of the vapour is re-liquefied via the gas recombination and remains in the system. Such a sealed battery is leak-proof and can be installed at an angle or even upside down. For safety, a valve ensures that no overpressure occurs in the battery. Such a battery is also called a valve regulated battery or VRLA battery. In car starter batteries with a labyrinth lid, the vapour condenses in the labyrinth of the lid and largely runs back into the liquid. Excess pressure is vented to the outside through a chimney-like opening. They can be installed at an inclination of up to 45°.

First connect the positive cable (usually red) to the positive terminal of the battery. Then connect the negative cable (usually black) to the negative terminal of the battery. If you install a start-stop battery, you must then register the battery in the vehicle system.

Battery acid consists partly of sulphuric acid, which is highly corrosive. It attacks your skin, textiles and even metal. Put on protective clothing! So always wear gloves, safety glasses and possibly an acid-proof apron when handling batteries. Choose a suitable work surface! Do not spill anything! Make sure that no acid gets on vehicle or machine parts. Explosive gases are produced by the chemical processes in the battery during charging at the latest, but also when the acid comes into contact with the electrodes. Ventilate well! Only work on batteries in well-ventilated rooms! Avoid sparks! Do not use open flames or cigarettes near batteries and avoid sparks!

There are many reasons for weakening or failing batteries. An important step in tracking them down is to measure the voltage with a battery tester. Here's how: 1. preparation Disconnect the battery from the vehicle, if possible remove it. Tips on how to do this Check the battery from the outside for damage. What to look for If you're testing a low-maintenance battery: Make sure it is completely filled - to MAX! Pay attention to the safety instructions. 2. testing Connect the test device to the battery. First connect the black cable/clamp to the negative terminal of the battery, then connect the red cable to the positive terminal. Make adjustments. intAct test power devices guide you step-by-step through the settings with precise instructions on the LED display. Wait for the test procedure. Read the results. Our test devices evaluate the measured values and issue this or similar ratings: a. Battery is ok and charged. b. Battery needs to be charged. c. Battery needs to be replaced. Save and/or print measured values. 3. further procedure, depending on the result###. a. Reinstall battery. b. Charge battery before installation. Here you will find step by step instructions. c. Replace battery. Here you will find tips for root cause analysis and help for battery selection for motorcycle, starter, drive and supply batteries.

Some batteries are only used seasonally - those in classic cars, motorcycles, boats, jet skis or snowmobiles, but also in certain utility, security or clearance vehicles. If a battery is installed in a vehicle that is not used for a long time, it will lose its voltage. This can have various reasons: Self-discharge of the battery Leakage currents Silent consumers You can find out how to counteract this in our tips for the winter or summer break. If the battery does not work reliably even after a very short standstill (a few days), we recommend that you check it thoroughly. We have compiled tips on how to do this here: -[Detect what's wrong with the battery from the outside](popup://wissen:optical_check_frame). -[Test like the pros](popup://wissen:test_step_by_step) If the battery is left standing for a very long time and if it remains in a discharged state for too long, sulfation can occur, a typical "stand damage". We recommend GEL batteries with low self-discharge for seasonal use. Or batteries based on AGM technology, which still deliver high cold start currents even when partially discharged.

First of all, a battery must fit in your vehicle or machine. Check the dimensions of your old battery or the available space in the battery compartment of your vehicle. The placement of the terminals, i.e. where exactly the positive and negative terminals are located on the battery, and where the venting takes place, also play a role. If the poles are positioned differently than intended for your vehicle or machine, the lengths of the connecting cables may not be long enough, the poles may not be accessible or the battery may not fit in the intended place. Equally important is the shape of the connection or end terminals, so that the screws or clamps present on your cables can be attached to the battery.

Starter batteries, including motorcycle batteries, are charged by the alternator while driving. The charge takes place over a longer period of time with low current. Starter batteries are designed for this charging behaviour. Some starter batteries combine high starting power with a particularly good current consumption, such as AGM batteries like the intAct Bike-Power AGM, the intAct Start-Stop AGM or the Odyssey batteries. Not only do they recharge better in normal use, but they can also be charged with a stronger charger and faster than other batteries. This can be advantageous for a lot of short trips or seasonal use. Cyclic batteries such as traction batteries and supply batteries are discharged for a long time and then recharged by a charger. This alternating charging and discharging is called cycling. Traction and supply batteries are designed for cycling. Some traction batteries are used in applications with very short charging times. Here, the suitability for very high charging currents plays an important role and the exact matching to suitable chargers with the corresponding charging characteristic curve. Some supply batteries are not charged from the power grid, but by electricity from photovoltaic applications or wind turbines. Here, it is important that they cope well with the fluctuating charging currents of renewable energies such as solar or wind. The recharging behavior also plays an important role in safety-relevant applications such as emergency power supply or uninterruptible power supply (UPS). A special suitability for constant charging or trickle charging with low current over a long period of time ensures that the battery is always ready for use.

Batteries age and fail. Sometimes it happens faster than you planned. If you know the cause of premature aging, you have a chance to make a more appropriate choice now: A battery that fits your technical requirements, intended use, and individual habits and needs. Appropriate care measures can reduce premature ageing. So it's all about determining why your battery failed and what you can do to prevent it from happening to you again. So: It's best to start with the external check Learn more about typical causes of premature failure and how to avoid them in the future here: What is sulfation and what can you do about it. What is short circuit and what can you do about it? What is wear and tear and what can you do about it? What is corrosion and what can you do about it?

intAct Bike-Power AGM, intAct Bike-Power SLA, intAct Bike-Power GEL, intAct Bike-Power HVT and intAct Bike-Power GEL HVT-HD are valve regulated lead-acid batteries or VRLA batteries (VRLA=Valve Regulated Lead-Acid). VRLA batteries produce much less gas than wet batteries. The gas produced remains in the circuit of the battery due to gas recombination, excess pressure is prevented by a safety valve. These batteries lose significantly less liquid. They do not need to be topped up, and it is not even possible to do so, as they cannot be reopened without damage. Both the intAct Bike-Power GEL and the intAct Bike-Power GEL HVT-HD as well as the two batteries based on AGM technology and filled ex works intAct Bike-Power SLA and intAct Bike-Power HVT are delivered already filled and charged. They are absolutely maintenance-free.

If you want to remove a start-stop battery: inform the vehicle system before removal. First disconnect the negative cable (usually black), also called ground or earth, from the negative terminal of the battery. Then remove the positive cable (usually red) from the positive terminal of the battery.

Drive batteries in AGM or GEL technology are sealed, absolutely maintenance-free, leak-proof batteries in a closed design with a fixed electrolyte (in fleece or gel). Both are suitable for medium to heavy cyclic use, for example in cleaning machines, golf caddies, light industrial trucks, lifting platforms, wheelchairs, motor homes and boats. AGM batteries usually deliver high currents and are still powerful even when partially charged, which provides flexibility in terms of operating time and charging times. Gel batteries are convincing due to their high vibration resistance.

In maintenance-free batteries, the electrolyte is in liquid form. They are usually closed at the factory, often with a double or labyrinth lid in which any gases produced condense and remain in the battery. In normal operation, maintenance-free ones do not lose any liquid. They cannot be opened, refilling is not possible and not necessary.

If the battery charge drops significantly, possibly overnight, this may be due to leakage current. Silent, unwanted loads can be detected with an ammeter. Oils or liquids deposited on the surface of the battery can also cause considerable self-discharge. It is therefore essential to keep the surface clean and dry.

In principle, the charger reverses the chemical process that provides the current output in the charged battery. To do this, it provides the battery with voltage (in volts) and current (in amps). The charge controller in the charger decides how much current and voltage are charged and in which sequence, i.e. according to which characteristic curve. Different battery technologies such as GEL, AGM or lithium require different charging procedures or charging characteristics.

The capacity and performance of lithium iron phosphate batteries are very high compared to other batteries of the same box size. They have an extremely long life expectancy, low self-discharge and can tolerate the highest charging currents. To fully charge them, a smaller PV system is sufficient than is required for a lead-acid battery of comparable capacity, and it is faster. This makes them particularly suitable for supplying power in camping or marine applications.

In order not to damage either the connected loads or the battery, the voltage of the battery must fit. Batteries are available with 6 or 12 volts. They consist of 3 or 6 cells of 2.12 volts each. For applications that require more voltage, such as the on-board network of a truck, several 12-volt batteries are connected in series.

Current and voltage during charging can be measured and displayed as a curve over the course of the charging time. Depending on which processes, controls by switch-off (a) or switch-over points (0) are possible with a charger, one speaks of the provided charging characteristics.

Showroom chargers are ideal for car dealers. They protect the battery while customers are test-seating the vehicle in the dealership. Consumers such as lights, cockpit displays and multimedia devices require power here during every demonstration, even every time the doors are opened, even though the car is not running, i.e. the battery is not being charged. Showroom chargers are permanently connected to the mains and the battery. They supply smaller consumers directly with power and charge the battery as required. Ideally, they are small and unobtrusive and are stowed in the engine compartment or under the vehicle like the DEFA showroom chargers. Showroom chargers are used in addition to the dealership in all situations where the on-board electronics need to function when the engine is switched off, e.g. at trade fairs, vehicle premieres, museums or businesses with regular public tours or demonstrations for customers.

The negative terminal is connected to the body, hence the name grounding. If you accidentally touch the positive terminal and the body at the same time when the negative terminal is connected, e.g. with a metallic tool, a short circuit could occur that would damage the battery or the on-board electronics. How to do it right? >> Remove battery >> Install battery

Deep-cycle batteries in AGM or gel design can be used in a variety of applications. They are suitable as supply batteries in the areas of marine, solar and camping, because the electrolyte is bound in gel or fleece (Absorbent Glass Mat), which makes the batteries leak-proof, vibration-proof, absolutely maintenance-free and cyclically well loadable (approx. 400 cycles). There are versions for stand-by operation, e.g. for emergency lighting and UPSs, for operation with strongly fluctuating recharge currents, such as in solar applications, and also those that are extra cycle-resistant for safety applications.

With each charge/discharge process (cycle), active material is inevitably lost and the battery's performance declines. Once it has fallen to the point where it can no longer fulfil its purpose - e.g. start the vehicle, supply the consumers or drive the machine - the battery has reached the end of its service life. Several factors can accelerate premature ageing.

A battery must of course fit in your vehicle, machine or device. Check the dimensions of your old battery or the available space where you want to install the battery. Check that the terminals are easily accessible, that you can reach them easily with the existing cables and that the connections of your cables fit the battery. Some batteries have a base plate that you can use to secure them if you have the space.

In order to supply the connected consumers permanently, supply batteries usually have a larger capacity than starter batteries, which are intended to deliver a lot of power, especially in the short term. Chargers designed for starter batteries reach their performance limits here. Chargers for supply batteries are designed to quickly recharge the battery between two periods of use and ensure that it is available at all times, even during long idle periods, e.g. when the sun is shining and you spontaneously want to use the cool box for a camping or boating trip. In safety systems such as UPSs (uninterruptible power supply), the battery must be permanently fully charged in order to supply the connected loads in the event of a power failure. Chargers for these applications stay on the battery permanently, support standby, constant charge and trickle charge. In addition to wet batteries, AGM, gel, and lithium batteries are primarily used in utility applications. These battery technologies must be charged differently. More information on this can be found under Charging methods and Charging characteristics. For smaller supply batteries in the private or hobby sector we recommend the DEFA Smartcharge series, for professional supply applications the DEFA Workshop charger or the Fronius Selectiva series, the latter also for safety-relevant and UPS applications. For optimum matching of battery and charger, especially in multi-shift, business-critical applications, we recommend an individual battery system concept from our industrial division inbatt. Including services such as assembly, leasing, battery care, etc.

Many vehicles, devices or machines are only used seasonally or on certain occasions. Ideally, your battery should be ready whenever you need it. That's why we recommend always storing batteries fully charged, at approx. 15 to 18° C and in a dry place, and disconnecting them from the consumers when they are not in use for longer periods of time. But even with these precautions, the battery loses voltage over time. To counteract self-discharge, it makes sense to charge the battery with a charger every 6 to 8 weeks. There are also chargers that can remain permanently connected to the battery and constantly recharge it slightly. However, this is at the expense of the life of the battery. Or you can use a GEL battery like the intAct GEL-Power, which has a lower self-discharge than batteries with other technologies.

Especially for workshops, there is another charger that supplies the vehicle with power during diagnoses and software updates on the vehicle electronics. During this phase, the vehicle management system requires a particularly large amount of power and for a particularly long time, which most starter batteries would not be able to provide. Here, too, the charger protects the installed battery from premature ageing. Workshop equipment needs special high-current characteristics. They are often splash-proof and dust-proof to withstand the typical environment of an automotive workshop, like the Fronius Acctiva Professional Flash.

Similar to the tank cell, the surface area is increased by "winding" the grids, resulting in a larger amount of active mass. The box size is relatively compact, so you get the benefits of a utility battery in a small space, along with good starting characteristics. Thanks to AGM technology, these batteries have good cyclic behaviour (approx. 300 cycles) and are very resistant to vibration. These batteries are used in buses, motor homes, boats, solar and wind power systems in the semi-professional sector.