AUTOMOTIVE

The Big Switch

The CAA Battery Depot offers expert tips to help you power down from summer fun and gear up for the demands of winter.

By Richard Snyder

The CAA Battery Depot can recommend, repair or help you replace the batteries and power accessories you need. | BACKGROUND VIDEO: COURTESY OF CAA

WHEN FALL ARRIVES, the summertime fun toys need to make way for fall and winter playthings and machines. These are things that you rely on to get you through the snowy season, such as snow blowers, snowmobiles and ATVs — not to mention the power plant that runs your ice-fishing hut.

Your batteries need to be cared for all season long, but the natural transition into the fall and winter seasons focuses attention on maintenance — and that’s a good thing. Always remember to follow the manufacturer’s maintenance regimen, as this can help extend the life and improve the performance of your batteries. Keep manuals in a secure location where they can be easily retrieved.

ATVs bump over an unpaved forest path.
Three people in a small red motorboat beside a wooded shore.
Snowmobiling through the woods.

When putting away summer gear and bringing out winter equipment, a few easy battery-care steps will ensure a smooth seasonal switch. | PHOTOS: (BACKGROUND) COURTESY OF CAA; (FOREGROUND, LEFT & MIDDLE) GREG HUSZAR PHOTOGRAPHY/TOURISM SASKATCHEWAN; (RIGHT) CHRIS HENDRICKSON PHOTOGRAPHY/TOURISM SASKATCHEWAN

The staff at the CAA Battery Depot have the expertise to answer all your questions. We asked the Depot’s Steven Millar for some expert tips.

As you roll out your winter machinery, take the time to assess the state of your batteries. Here are some tips to keep everything tip-top:

  1. VISUAL INSPECTION Look for signs of damage, such as cracks or leakage. A damaged case means your battery may need to be replaced.
  2. INVEST IN A QUALITY BATTERY CHARGER AND MAINTAINER Automatic chargers or maintainers are convenient for any battery that may not be used for extended periods. They will turn off after charging, preventing potential damage.
  3. KEEP A FULL CHARGE Batteries perform best at full charge. They can lose charge if they’re idle for too long. Consider charging them overnight to bring them up to full power, so they will be ready when the temperatures go below zero.
  4. CLEAN TERMINALS Corrosion or dirt on battery terminals reduces efficiency. Disconnect the battery and clean the terminals with a mixture of baking soda and water. Rinse and then apply a light coat of waterproof grease to protect the terminals from future corrosion.
  5. FOLLOW CHARGING SCHEDULES First, check the manual. Typically, ATVs, snowmobiles and snow blowers should be charged for a minimum number of hours after each use. Do not charge for longer than the recommended time. Also, avoid fully depleting batteries.
  6. STORE BATTERIES PROPERLY Fully charge your batteries before storage. A monthly maintenance charge can keep them in good shape.
  7. TEST BATTERIES REGULARLY Remember, you can bring your batteries to the CAA Battery Depot for a free checkup. CAA

Questions about batteries? The experts at the CAA Battery Depot in Regina can service a wide array of batteries. Members save 10%.

Learn more

〈 PREVIOUS PAGE

Share

NEXT PAGE 〉

Share

〈 PREVIOUS PAGE 〉
〈 NEXT PAGE 〉

When putting away summer gear and bringing out winter equipment, a few easy battery-care steps will ensure a smooth seasonal switch. | PHOTOS: (BACKGROUND) COURTESY OF CAA. (FOREGROUND, TOP & MIDDLE) GREG HUSZAR PHOTOGRAPHY/TOURISM SASKATCHEWAN; (BOTTOM) CHRIS HENDRICKSON PHOTOGRAPHY/TOURISM SASKATCHEWAN

The CAA Battery Depot can recommend, repair or help you replace the batteries and power accessories you need. | PHOTO: COURTESY OF CAA