Frozen Battery

Orange · Posted: Mon Jan 17, 2011 3:13 pm Post subject: Frozen Battery

Is it possible to bring a frozen battery back to a useable full charge? I would sure appreciate any suggestions. Thanks

George R. (MN) · Regular Joined: 28 Dec 2006 Posts: 47 Report to Moderator

It"s possible but be very careful charging it. Remove the caps (if not sealed) attach a charger that will charge with less than 15 amps. I would remove the battery and place it on the floor or ground while charging in the event the battery case would crack or split. If it"s been frozen for any length of time I would say you will probably need a new one. Good luck!

JMS/.MN · Posted: Mon Jan 17, 2011 4:00 pm Post subject: Re: Frozen Battery

I agree with George R., and it wouldn"t hurt to add an extension cord to the charger, and plug it in while you"re in another room!

old · Posted: Mon Jan 17, 2011 4:39 pm Post subject: Re: Frozen Battery

First thing the do with it is thaw it out. Do not hook a charge to it before you thaw it. Once it has thawed then you can try to charge it but it is not likely to be any good because most of the time when a battery is frozen it cause the plates to warp and that in turn causes them to have dead cells

mmidlam · Posted: Mon Jan 17, 2011 4:41 pm Post subject: Re: Frozen Battery

don't try to charge a frozen battery. It should be warmed up first. It may still take a charge if the plate don't touch but it will have lower capacity because some of the lead will flake off.

buickanddeere · Posted: Mon Jan 17, 2011 5:04 pm Post subject: Re: Frozen Battery

Even if unfrozen, the longer a lead acid battery rests discharged or dead. The more damage occurs to the plate and plate surfaces.
Freezing makes it worse by buckling and warping plates or the inter-cell connectors.
Play it safe and send the battery out for recycling. There are reasons why batteries go KA..............BOOOOOOOOOOMMMMMMMM on a charger.

RSponenberg · Guest Report to Moderator

Dont waste your time or your life go buy a new one!!!!

Orange · Posted: Tue Jan 18, 2011 6:21 am Post subject: Re: Frozen Battery

Thanks for your quick replies. Your info was very helpful. I will let it thaw out on it's
own then carefully put a trickle charge on it.
For now a new battery is needed. Thanks Again

Orange

buickanddeere · Posted: Wed Jan 19, 2011 4:09 pm Post subject: Re: Frozen Battery

It may charge somewhat via trickle but if the plates are sulphated. It will need a heavy charge.
If it's going to blow it will either be during a heavy charge or when you attempt to crank the engine.

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