Golf Cart Battery Swelling

Golf carts are a popular choice for transportation and recreation, valued for their reliability and efficiency. However, one common issue golf cart owners face is swollen golf cart batteries. This alarming problem raises concerns about safety, functionality, and the lifespan of the batteries. If you’ve ever wondered, “Why is my golf cart battery swollen?” or need advice on what to do next, this guide has all the answers.

What Is a Swollen Golf Cart Battery?

A swollen golf cart battery is a battery whose casing has expanded, often bulging outward at the ends or sides. This physical deformity is not just cosmetic; it signals internal damage that compromises the battery’s performance and safety. Swollen batteries are often accompanied by other symptoms like excessive heat during charging, reduced charge capacity, or leaking fluid.

Why Is My Golf Cart Battery Swollen?

Several factors can lead to a battery becoming swollen, but they all trace back to chemical and physical processes occurring inside the battery. Here’s an in-depth explanation:

1. Low State of Charge Prolonged Too Long

“I have a golf cart, and the batteries are swelling on the ends. Why?” This question often arises because the battery has remained in a low state of charge for an extended period. Batteries are designed to be cycled between charging and discharging. However, when left discharged for too long, their internal plates suffer damage.

The plates in a lead-acid battery, which is commonly used in golf carts, can become sulfated when left uncharged. Sulfation occurs when lead sulfate crystals build up on the plates, reducing the battery’s ability to accept a charge and perform efficiently.

2. Hard Charging and Its Effects

When a battery is left in a low state of charge for too long, some owners or technicians attempt to restore it by hard charging—applying a high current or voltage to force a charge. Unfortunately, this approach can exacerbate the problem.

In an attempt to reverse sulfation, the intense charging process heats the plates inside the battery. This heat, combined with the increased curvature of the plates caused by sulfation, leads to physical swelling.

3. Evaporation of Water Due to Overheating

During the hard charging process, the overheating of the battery causes the water inside the electrolyte solution to evaporate. When this happens, the battery loses its ability to maintain a healthy chemical balance, further contributing to swelling.

4. Corrosion on Battery Plates

Corrosion on the battery plates also increases the resistance to charging, creating a vicious cycle. When the battery resists taking a charge, the excess energy turns into heat instead of being stored as chemical energy. This overheating accelerates plate deformation and swelling.

5. “Too Little, Too Late” Scenarios

In some cases, the damage may already be too severe by the time hard charging is attempted. The battery might have reached a point where it cannot hold a charge effectively. At this stage, even small charging attempts can cause swelling as the internal chemistry breaks down.

Consequences of Swollen Golf Cart Batteries

A swollen golf cart battery is more than just a mechanical issue. It has serious implications for safety, performance, and cost:

• Safety Risks: A swollen battery can rupture or leak hazardous acid, posing risks to both the vehicle and its occupants.
• Reduced Performance: Swollen batteries lose their ability to store and deliver power effectively, leading to reduced performance and shorter runtime for your golf cart.
• Higher Replacement Costs: Ignoring the issue can lead to complete battery failure, requiring an expensive replacement of one or more batteries.

Preventing Golf Cart Battery Swelling

Prevention is key when it comes to avoiding swollen golf cart batteries. By following best practices for battery maintenance, you can extend the life of your batteries and avoid costly repairs.

Regular Charging Practices

Ensure your golf cart battery is never left in a low state of charge for extended periods. Recharge the battery after every use, even if it was only used for a short trip. This habit helps prevent sulfation and keeps the plates in good condition.

Avoid Overcharging

While keeping your battery charged is important, overcharging can be equally harmful. Use a smart charger with an automatic shutoff feature to prevent excessive charging that can lead to overheating.

Check Electrolyte Levels

For lead-acid batteries, regularly check the electrolyte levels. If they’re low, refill them with distilled water to maintain the correct balance. Never use tap water, as it contains impurities that can harm the battery.

Store Batteries Properly

If you don’t plan to use your golf cart for an extended period, store the batteries in a cool, dry place. Periodically check and recharge the batteries to prevent them from discharging completely.

What to Do If Your Battery Is Swollen

If you notice that your battery is swollen, take immediate action to prevent further damage or danger:

• Stop Using the Battery: Continuing to use a swollen battery can cause it to rupture, leading to leaks, fire, or other hazards.
• Avoid Touching or Handling: Swollen batteries are unstable and can leak dangerous chemicals. If handling is necessary, use gloves and protective eyewear.
• Consult a Professional: Take the battery to a qualified technician for evaluation. They can determine whether the battery can be repaired or if replacement is necessary.
• Dispose of Safely: If the battery is beyond repair, dispose of it responsibly at a recycling facility or hazardous waste center. Never throw it in the trash.

Choosing the Right Battery Replacement

If your swollen golf cart battery needs replacement, it’s crucial to select a high-quality battery to avoid future issues. Look for reputable brands that provide a good warranty and match your golf cart’s voltage and amperage requirements.

FAQs About Swollen Golf Cart Batteries

Q: Can I fix a swollen golf cart battery myself?
A: It’s not recommended. Swollen batteries are often beyond repair and should be handled by professionals due to the safety risks involved.

Q: How do I know if my battery is swollen?
A: Look for physical signs like bulging sides or ends. Other symptoms include overheating, reduced performance, and leaking fluid.

Q: How long do golf cart batteries last?
A: With proper care, golf cart batteries typically last 4-6 years. However, poor maintenance can drastically shorten their lifespan.

Q: Can I prevent sulfation in my battery?
A: Yes. Regular charging, avoiding deep discharges, and proper electrolyte maintenance can help prevent sulfation.

Conclusion

Swollen golf cart batteries are a sign of underlying issues, often stemming from improper charging or prolonged low states of charge. While hard charging might seem like a quick fix, it often causes more harm than good, leading to overheating, water evaporation, and irreversible damage to the plates.

By understanding why your battery is swollen and adopting preventive measures, you can protect your golf cart’s performance, avoid safety hazards, and save money in the long run. If you’re ever in doubt, consult a professional to ensure your golf cart remains safe and functional.

Need a Battery Store in Houston, TX?

At Texford Battery Co, we pride ourselves on being much more than just another battery specialist. We credit our seven decades of business growth and success to the unmatched service and expertise our team provides. Texford Battery Co is not simply a supplier – we helped pave the way for many innovations in the battery distribution industry that continue to keep prices competitive for our customers. Among them, we were a leader in the creation of the Battery Marketing Group in the 1970s. As a founding member of this national network of battery distributors and manufacturers, we are able to offer up to 10,000 of the industry’s top products to our customers at the lowest cost. Call us today!

Categorised in: Golf Cart Batteries

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