After a busy year, your batteries are probably covered in dirt and dust. Before you store them, give them a good wipe-down, especially around the terminals. Dirt and corrosion can trap moisture, which will drain your battery if you’re not careful.
As you clean, look over the battery for any cracks or dents. A small crack can cause a significant issue down the line.
Cold weather and uncharged batteries don’t mix. If your battery isn't fully charged, it could freeze when temps drop to 20°F and below, and that’s where the trouble starts. Frozen batteries can expand, damaging the internal plates and potentially causing them to fail completely.
The solution? Charge your batteries before storing them for the winter.
If your batteries are a bit older, it’s smart to test them, too. The older they are, the harder it is for them to hold a charge, and those are the ones most likely to freeze. Store your batteries somewhere insulated to help protect them from freezing.
By taking a little time to care for your batteries ahead of the cold weather, you’ll save yourself a lot of trouble come spring when it’s time to hit the fields again.