Catalina 34

General Activities => Main Message Board => Topic started by: David Discenza on October 25, 2022, 11:35:11 AM

Title: White crystals in battery fluid
Post by: David Discenza on October 25, 2022, 11:35:11 AM
Hello. I was topping off my batteries and noticed small white "flakes" or crystals floating in some (not all) of the cells. A search of the internet has yielded nothing. What could this be and is this a problem? The batteries are holding a charge and I've had no issues with them.

Thanks to all who reply.
Title: Re: White crystals in battery fluid
Post by: mainesail on October 25, 2022, 12:37:00 PM
batteries are heavily sulfated...
Title: Re: White crystals in battery fluid
Post by: Ron Hill on October 25, 2022, 03:00:53 PM
David : As MainSail said your batteries are sulfated -- and things will only get worse!!  I sulfated out a battery when I used it slightly, but constantly recharged it!

A thought
Title: Re: White crystals in battery fluid
Post by: Noah on October 25, 2022, 06:07:50 PM
Depending how bad they, what kind of charger you have and what brand batteries, you might try "Equalizing" them:
https://www.trojanbattery.com/tech-support/battery-maintenance/
Title: Re: White crystals in battery fluid
Post by: David Discenza on October 26, 2022, 07:05:23 AM
Mainsail, Ron, Noah
Thanks for your reply. I'll check with my marina to see if they offer "equalizing" as a service.
Title: Re: White crystals in battery fluid
Post by: Noah on October 26, 2022, 09:26:54 AM
Equalizing your batteries is something you don't need a marina for.
Title: Re: White crystals in battery fluid
Post by: Jim Hardesty on October 26, 2022, 01:01:55 PM
QuoteI'll check with my marina to see if they offer "equalizing" as a service.

Instructions are in the manual for the battery charger.  That is if the battery charger has that cycle.  If you don't have the manual, google the manufacturer and the model number most instructions are on-line.   
Jim