The whirring of a lawn mower engine is the soundtrack of summer, but that symphony can easily turn into a silent groan when your battery gives out. The frustration of a dead battery can be intense, especially when you’re facing a sprawling lawn. But before you rush out to buy a brand new one, consider this: can you actually recondition your old lawn mower battery? This article will explore the ins and outs of reconditioning, including the tools you’ll need, the process itself, and most importantly, whether it’s actually worth the effort.
In short, reconditioning a lawn mower battery is possible, but it’s not a guaranteed fix. It’s a good option for batteries that are simply sulfated (have built-up crystals on the lead plates), but it’s unlikely to bring a completely dead battery back to life.
Understanding the Basics of Lawn Mower Batteries
Lawn mower batteries are typically lead-acid batteries, often classified as “deep cycle” due to their ability to handle repeated discharge cycles. Here’s a brief rundown of their components and how they work:
Lead plates: These are the heart of the battery. When a chemical reaction takes place between lead and sulfuric acid, it releases electrons, creating an electric current.
Electrolyte: A mixture of sulfuric acid and water, the electrolyte acts as a conductor for the chemical reactions.
Separator: This thin, porous barrier keeps the lead plates from touching, preventing short circuits.
Case and terminals: The case holds all the components together, while the terminals provide connections for electrical wires.
Why Lawn Mower Batteries Fail
Understanding the reasons behind battery failure is crucial for knowing if reconditioning is a viable option:
Sulfation: This is the most common culprit. Over time, lead sulfate crystals build up on the lead plates, hindering the chemical reactions and reducing the battery’s capacity. This is typically caused by leaving the battery in a partially discharged state for extended periods.
Corrosion: Corrosion of the lead plates or terminals can significantly impede the flow of electricity. Moisture, humidity, and exposure to harsh elements can accelerate this process.
Physical damage: Cracks, leaks, or damage to the internal components can compromise the battery’s functionality.
Can You Recondition a Lawn Mower Battery?
Now, let’s address the big question: can you revive your ailing lawn mower battery? The answer is a cautious “maybe”. Here’s why:
- Sulfation: If the battery’s failure is primarily due to sulfation, reconditioning has a good chance of success. The process involves breaking down the lead sulfate crystals, restoring the battery’s capacity.
- Other failures: If the battery has suffered significant corrosion or physical damage, reconditioning is unlikely to be effective. These issues often indicate a more serious problem.
The Reconditioning Process: Step-by-Step
Before you begin, ensure that you’re working in a well-ventilated area and wearing protective gear like gloves and eye protection.
1. Preparing the Battery
- Disconnect the battery: Always disconnect the battery from the lawn mower before handling it.
- Clean the terminals: Use a wire brush or sandpaper to remove any corrosion or debris from the terminals.
- Assess the battery: Check for signs of cracks, leaks, or damage. If you notice any major issues, it’s best to replace the battery.
2. Charging the Battery
- Use a slow charger: A slow charger (typically 2 amps or less) is ideal for reconditioning. Avoid using fast chargers, as they can damage the battery.
- Charge for extended periods: Charge the battery for 24-48 hours, even if it seems to be fully charged. This allows time for the charging current to penetrate the sulfated lead plates.
3. Desulfation (Optional)
- Sulfate removal: Some reconditioning methods involve a desulfation step, which aims to break down the lead sulfate crystals. This can be done by using a desulfating charger or adding special desulfating solutions. However, these methods can be complex and may not always be effective.
4. Equalizing Charge
- Boosting power: After desulfation, you can perform an equalizing charge. This involves charging the battery at a higher rate (typically 10 amps) for several hours to ensure all cells are fully charged and balanced.
5. Testing and Evaluation
- Battery tester: After the reconditioning process, use a battery tester to assess the battery’s voltage, capacity, and overall health.
- Test in the lawnmower: If the test results are satisfactory, reconnect the battery to the lawnmower and start it. If it works, you’ve successfully reconditioned your battery!
Alternatives to Reconditioning: When to Replace
While reconditioning can offer a second life to your lawn mower battery, it’s not a foolproof solution. Here are some scenarios where replacing the battery might be the more practical approach:
- Severe damage: If the battery has suffered significant cracks, leaks, or internal damage, reconditioning is unlikely to be effective.
- Battery age: If the battery is very old (over 5 years), its capacity may have deteriorated significantly, even without signs of damage.
- Cost-benefit analysis: Reconditioning can sometimes be time-consuming and involve specialized equipment. Consider the cost of replacement versus the effort and uncertainty involved in reconditioning.
Tips for Extending Battery Life
To prevent premature battery failure and maximize its lifespan, follow these tips:
- Store properly: Store the battery in a cool, dry place. Avoid extreme temperatures, as they can accelerate sulfation.
- Regular maintenance: Clean the terminals regularly and check for signs of corrosion.
- Charge regularly: Charge the battery after each use to prevent sulfation.
- Avoid deep discharges: Don’t completely drain the battery, as this can damage the lead plates.
Conclusion: Weighing the Options
Reconditioning a lawn mower battery can be a rewarding endeavor, offering a cost-effective way to extend its lifespan. However, it’s not a guaranteed solution and may not be suitable for all batteries. If you’re considering reconditioning, carefully assess the battery’s condition, understand the process, and weigh the potential risks and benefits. Ultimately, the decision to recondition or replace depends on your individual needs and budget. Remember, a well-maintained battery can provide years of reliable service, keeping your lawn looking pristine and your summer days filled with the satisfying sound of a running mower.
FAQ
1. Why does my lawn mower battery die?
There are several reasons why your lawn mower battery might die. One common reason is sulfation. When a battery sits unused for a long time, lead sulfate crystals build up on the battery plates. These crystals prevent the battery from properly charging and discharging. Another reason is corrosion. Corrosion can occur on the battery terminals or inside the battery itself, blocking the flow of electricity. Finally, age plays a significant role. Batteries have a limited lifespan, and eventually, they will wear out.
2. Can I really revive an old lawn mower battery?
While it may seem impossible to bring an old lawn mower battery back to life, it’s often possible to extend its lifespan. This is because the problem is often not a complete failure of the battery itself, but rather a buildup of sulfation or corrosion. However, keep in mind that this isn’t a guaranteed solution, and the revived battery may only last for a limited time.
3. How do I bring a lawn mower battery back to life?
The most common method is using a battery desulfator. This device sends pulses of electricity through the battery, breaking down the sulfation and restoring its capacity. Another option is using a battery charger with a desulfation mode. These chargers usually have a specific setting for this purpose.
4. Can I use a car battery charger to revive a lawn mower battery?
Using a car battery charger to revive a lawn mower battery can be risky. Car battery chargers usually have higher voltage and amperage outputs than lawn mower batteries, which can damage the battery. It’s best to use a charger specifically designed for lawn mower batteries, as they typically have lower voltage and amperage settings.
5. How long does it take to revive a battery?
The time it takes to revive a battery depends on the severity of the sulfation and the method you use. A battery desulfator typically takes several hours or even days to break down the sulfation. If you’re using a battery charger with a desulfation mode, it might take several charging cycles.
6. How often can I revive my lawn mower battery?
While you can revive your battery a few times, you should understand that each revival will shorten its lifespan. Eventually, the battery will become too damaged to be revived, and you’ll need to replace it. To extend the life of your battery, try to charge it regularly and avoid letting it completely discharge.
7. What if I can’t revive my battery?
If you can’t revive your battery, then it’s time to replace it. It’s important to choose a battery that is compatible with your lawnmower. Consider buying a battery from a reputable brand, and make sure you understand the battery’s specifications. Properly maintaining your new battery will help ensure it lasts as long as possible.