Storing an Electric Car: Precautions and Time Limit
Electric cars have become an increasingly popular option for environmentally conscious drivers. However, when it comes to storing an electric car for an extended period of time, there are some precautions that need to be taken to ensure that the battery is properly protected.
In this article, we will discuss the importance of protecting the battery, the time limit and precautions for storing an electric car, and how to protect the car during storage.
Importance of Protecting the Battery
The battery is the heart of an electric car, and its efficiency has a direct impact on the vehicle’s performance. If the battery is not properly protected during storage, it can lose its charge over time, which can shorten its lifespan.
To protect the battery during storage, it is essential to maintain a proper charge.
Charge the Battery
Before storing the electric car, the battery should be fully charged. This ensures that the battery is at its maximum capacity, which reduces the risk of the battery losing its charge during storage.
If the battery is not fully charged before storage, it can cause the battery to degrade over time.
Storage Time Limit and Precautions
Electric car batteries should not be left idle for prolonged periods because it can result in battery degradation. If the battery is left idle for too long, it can lead to a complete loss of charge, resulting in permanent damage.
It is recommended to store the electric car for no more than two months.
Charge the Battery to 80-90%
When storing the electric car for an extended period, it is recommended to charge the battery to 80-90% of its maximum capacity. It’s best to avoid charging the battery to 100% before storing it, as this can cause the battery to lose energy over time.
Leave the Battery Charged at 3%
If the electric car is being stored for a prolonged period, it is recommended to leave the battery charged at 3%. This allows the battery to maintain its charge level, preventing it from losing all of its charge.
However, it is important to note that the battery should not be left idle for more than two months.
Protecting the Car During Storage
While charging the battery is essential, protecting the car during storage is also crucial. It is possible to protect an electric car’s battery by considering the following factors: temperature, moisture, rubber, paint, and seals.
Temperature
The temperature of the storage area is important for the battery’s longevity. The ideal temperature range for electric car battery storage is between 20-25C.
If the temperature is too high, it can cause the battery to degrade faster. Conversely, if the temperature is too low, it can cause the battery’s lifespan to be shortened.
Moisture
If the electric car is going to be stored outside, it is important to keep the car covered. If moisture is allowed to penetrate the car’s battery, it can cause corrosion or complete failure.
In addition, a buildup of moisture can cause mold and mildew growth inside the car’s cabin, which can damage the car’s electrical components. Rubber, Paint, and Seals
Electric cars have a lot of rubber, paint, and seals, which are susceptible to damage during storage.
Before putting the electric car into storage, it is important to clean it thoroughly and apply wax to protect the car’s paint. Additionally, put the car on jack stands to reduce the weight on the tires to prevent flat spots from developing.
Managing Multiple Batteries in an Electric Car
Electric cars utilize multiple batteries to power their operation, including a primary battery and a 12-volt battery. It is vital to understand how to manage these batteries correctly to keep the electric car in optimal condition.
Primary and High-Voltage Batteries
The primary battery is what powers the electric motor, propelling the vehicle. This battery is the most crucial battery in an electric car, and its functionality determines the car’s performance.
The high-voltage battery’s role is to receive power from the electric motor and send it back to recharge the motor.
12-Volt Battery
Unlike conventional cars, electric cars have another battery, a 12-volt battery, which powers the car’s accessories such as radio, headlights, and air conditioning. It is recommended to charge the 12-volt battery after every use to ensure that it is prepared for the next electric car use.
Charging and Disconnecting Batteries
To maintain the optimal condition of the batteries in an electric car, it is necessary to charge the car’s primary and high-voltage batteries every time the vehicle is not in use. Additionally, ensure that all accessories are unplugged, the battery is charged, and everything is disconnected.
It is recommended to disconnect the batteries if the car will be sitting for an extended period.
Reducing Battery Charge for Storage
If the electric car is going to be stored for a prolonged period, it is essential to reduce the battery charge. Reducing the battery charge helps to prevent the battery from losing its charge capacity.
It is recommended to reduce the battery charge to 50% if the electric car will be stored for more than five days.
Conclusion
In conclusion, storing an electric car is a process that requires proper maintenance. The battery is the most crucial component in an electric car, and its deterioration can lead to the vehicle’s failure.
The time limit, precautions, and battery management are essential in ensuring the electric car’s longevity. By following these steps, an electric car’s lifespan can be extended, ensuring that it functions properly for a long time.
Factors That Can Damage the Batteries
When it comes to electric cars, maintaining the battery life is crucial. While batteries are designed to last for a long time, there are some factors that can damage the batteries and shorten their lifespan.
This article focuses on factors that can damage the batteries of an electric car.
Heat Damage on Batteries
Heat can significantly reduce the lifespan of the batteries in an electric car. The ambient temperature of the battery should not exceed 30C for its optimal performance.
The battery’s lifespan will begin to degrade faster if it is consistently exposed to higher temperatures. For example, lead-acid batteries are susceptible to high heat, which can affect their performance negatively.
Therefore, electric car owners should avoid parking their cars in direct sunlight and protect the vehicle’s battery from excessive heat.
Care for Charging Cables
Charging cables are used to charge an electric car’s battery using a compatible home charger. These cables also help to transfer energy to the battery.
However, charging cables can get damaged during use, and their maintenance is crucial for both the electric car and its battery. For instance, if the cable is frayed or damaged, electricity may leak, causing electrical shock or short-circuiting.
This can potentially damage the electric car’s battery. Therefore, it is crucial to take care of the cables and ensure they are in good condition before and after use.
If the cable is damaged, it is best to replace it with a new one to avoid damages to the battery.
Vehicle-Specific Maintenance
There are different types of electric and hybrid cars on the market, such as the Toyota Prius and other Toyota hybrids. These vehicles have specific maintenance guidelines that owners should follow to keep the car and its battery healthy.
For instance, some vehicles come with a gasoline engine that works alongside the electric system to charge the battery. In these cases, it’s still essential to check and maintain the electric cables, even when using the gasoline engine.
These hybrid cars have a unique power distribution system. Therefore, owners should periodically inspect the electric system, connections, and wires, and have them serviced by a certified mechanic.
Mechanics of Storing an Electric Car
Storing an electric car is different than storing a conventional car because electric cars have a battery that needs to be protected. This section discusses the mechanics of storing an electric car and the steps that electric car owners can take to protect their vehicle and its battery.
Steps to Disconnect the Battery
Before storing the electric car, the battery should be disconnected to prevent it from drawing power. To disconnect the battery, one needs to take the following steps:
Step 1: Turn off the electric car and remove the key from the ignition.
Step 2: Using a wrench or pliers, start with the negative terminal and loosen the bolt or screw that holds the cable’s clamp. Step 3: Remove the cable from the battery’s negative terminal and secure it safely.
Step 4: Repeat the process with the positive terminal. By disconnecting the battery, electric car owners can avoid any potential battery drainage, ensuring the battery stays healthy while the vehicle is in storage.
Storage for Heavy Vehicles
Storing heavy vehicles like trucks and buses is challenging because they require a lot of space and are heavy. To ensure the vehicle is stored safely, here are some best practices to follow:
Step 1: Choose a storage area that can accommodate the vehicle’s weight and size.
Ensure that the ground can support the trailer capacity and the weight of the vehicle. Step 2: Position the vehicle in the storage area and level it.
This will prevent the suspension system from being worn down. Step 3: Keep the battery charged by setting up a solar-powered charger or by connecting the battery to a compatible charger.
Step 4: Remove any perishable items from the vehicle to prevent any rotting or contamination. Step 5: Check the tire pressure, and fill the tires up to their recommended levels.
By following these steps, electric car owners and heavy vehicle owners can store their vehicles safely and protect the batteries from damage.
Conclusion
Electric cars require different maintenance from conventional cars, especially when it comes to handling and storing the vehicle’s battery. Ensuring the battery’s optimal performance is crucial to maintaining the electric car’s performance and lifespan.
This article explored factors that can damage electric car batteries, like heat and damaged cables, as well as the mechanics of storing an electric car such as disconnecting the battery and storing heavy vehicles. By following these best practices, electric car owners can maximize the lifespan of their batteries and enjoy the many benefits of electric cars.
Conclusion: Similarities to Storing Gas or Diesel Vehicles
Storing an electric car is different from storing a gas or diesel vehicle, considering that the electric car has a battery that requires more attention and care. However, there are similarities between storing an electric car and a conventional vehicle when it comes to protecting the vehicle from common damages such as a discharged starting battery, overheating, moisture, and exposure to sunlight.
Protection from Common Damages
1. Discharged Starting Battery
Just like an electric car, gas and diesel vehicles have a starting battery that can become discharged if the vehicle is left idle for a long time.
The discharged battery can be frustrating because it can prevent the vehicle from starting. To prevent this problem, it is recommended to disconnect the negative terminal of the battery to prevent any potential battery drainage.
Additionally, vehicle owners can install a battery tender, a device that keeps the battery charged while the vehicle is in storage. 2.
Heat
Heat is another factor that can damage the battery in an electric car and the engine in a gas or diesel vehicle. In extreme heat conditions, the heat can cause the battery to degrade faster, reducing its lifespan.
For gas and diesel vehicles, it can damage the engine by causing the fluids to evaporate, leaving the engine dry. To prevent heat damage, vehicle owners should store their vehicle in a cool, dry place, such as a garage.
3.
Moisture
Moisture is another common issue that can lead to damage in both electric and gas or diesel vehicles. High humidity, rain, or snow that penetrates the vehicle can cause damage.
For electric vehicles, moisture can corrode the battery’s terminals, which can cause damage to the battery and the vehicle’s electrical system. For gas and diesel vehicles, moisture can penetrate the engine and cause rust or corrosion, which can lead to costly repairs.
To prevent moisture damage, vehicle owners should store their vehicle in a dry place and use a dehumidifier if necessary. 4.
Exposure to Sunlight
Exposure to sunlight can cause damage to an electric car’s battery and a gas or diesel vehicle’s exterior paint and interior. In an electric car, exposure to sunlight can cause the battery to overheat, which can damage its seals and internal components.
In a gas or diesel vehicle, exposure to sunlight can cause the paint to fade and peel, and the interior to crack and discolor. To prevent damage, vehicle owners should park their cars in a shaded area or use a car cover to protect the car from the sun’s rays.
In conclusion, storing an electric car requires special attention to the battery, but there are similarities to storing gas or diesel vehicles. To protect a vehicle from damage, it is essential to disconnect the battery if not in use, store the vehicle in a cool, dry place, protect it from moisture, and exposure to sunlight.
By following these simple steps, both electric and gas or diesel vehicles can be stored safely, and their batteries can last a long time, ensuring optimal performance and longevity. In conclusion, properly storing an electric car is essential for maximizing its lifespan and performance.
It is important to protect the battery from heat, moisture, and overcharging, and follow proper battery management techniques. Disconnecting the battery when storing the vehicle, maintaining charging cables, and ensuring vehicle-specific maintenance is also crucial.
Additionally, protecting the vehicle from common damages like a discharged starting battery, heat, moisture, and exposure to sunlight should not be neglected. By following these guidelines, electric car owners can ensure their vehicle and its battery remain healthy.
FAQs:
1. How do I store an electric car for an extended period?
Disconnect the battery, maintain charging cables, charge the battery to 80-90%, store it in a cool and dry place, and protect it from moisture, heat, and sunlight. 2.
How often should I charge my electric car’s battery when in storage? It is recommended to charge the battery once every month, depending on how long you plan to store the vehicle.
Ensure that the battery is charged to 80-90% of its maximum capacity. 3.
Can I charge my electric car during storage? Yes, but it is essential to maintain the battery charge at 80-90% to ensure the battery does not degrade due to overcharging.
4. How do I disconnect the battery of an electric car?
To disconnect the battery, turn off the car, use a wrench to loosen the negative terminal’s bolt or screw, and remove the cable from the battery’s negative terminal. Repeat for the positive terminal.
5. Can I store heavy electric vehicles like buses and trucks?
Yes, but it is crucial to choose a storage area that accommodates the vehicle’s weight and level the vehicle to prevent suspension system wear. Additionally, check tire pressure, and remove any perishable items to prevent contamination or rotting.