As the colder months approach, it’s essential to pay extra attention to one of the most critical components in your vehicles and equipment: the battery. Cold weather dramatically impacts battery performance—reducing capacity, slowing starting times, and increasing the risk of failure.
Whether you're driving a car, cruising in a golf cart, or prepping a leisure or motorcycle battery for storage, here are RedPoint's top tips to keep your battery protected and ready all winter long.
Give your battery a health check before winter sets in. Charging overnight with a quality multistage charger helps balance the cells and prepares it for lower temperatures. If your battery is over 4 years old or slow to crank the engine, it may be time to test or replace it.
2. Park in Sheltered Spaces
Parking your car in a garage or under a carport offers insulation from the cold. Even small temperature differences can help the battery crank more efficiently.
3. Minimise Load at Startup
Turn off accessories such as heaters, radios, and headlights before starting the car. This reduces the strain on the battery when cranking the engine.
4. Inspect Terminals
Clean, tight, and corrosion-free terminals ensure maximum efficiency. Use a wire brush and corrosion-cleaning solution if needed.
5. Emergency Kit Essentials
Always carry jumper cables or a portable jump starter. Even well-maintained batteries can fail unexpectedly, especially in extreme cold.
6. Drive Frequently
Driving helps maintain the battery's charge. If the car is unused for long periods, consider using a maintenance (trickle) charger.
7. Schedule a Battery Check-Up
Before temperatures plummet, have your battery and electrical system professionally tested to detect early signs of trouble.
Whether you use your golf cart recreationally or as essential transport, winter readiness is key.
1. Start with a Full Charge
Charge your batteries fully before winter hits. If unused for extended periods, recharge every two months or use a float charger.
2. Keep It Clean
Check terminals for corrosion or dirt. Clean with baking soda and water, and ensure connections are tight—but avoid overtightening.
3. Maintain Electrolyte Levels
If you have non-maintenance-free batteries, check fluid levels regularly and top up with distilled water only. Make sure vent caps are secured to reduce evaporation.
4. Run Periodic Drive
Start and drive the cart occasionally to keep the battery healthy and prevent sulfation.
5. Monitor for Signs of Decline
Watch for reduced range or power. Early intervention can extend battery life and prevent downtime.
Preparing your leisure battery for winter storage ensures it’s ready for the next season of adventures.
1. Inspect and Clean
Look for damage and clean any corrosion from terminals using baking soda and water. Wear protective gear during the process.
2. Charge Fully Before Storage
Use a smart charger that can maintain a float charge. Disconnect any appliances and allow the battery to fully charge before storing.
3. Store in a Safe Environment
Choose a cool, dry, and well-ventilated area. Ensure the battery is stable and upright to avoid leaks or tipping
4. Perform Periodic Maintenance
Check the State of Charge monthly and recharge if needed. Inspect regularly for corrosion or physical damage.
5. Prioritise Safety
Proper positioning and secure storage reduce risks of spills, leaks, or electrical hazards.
Motorcycle batteries are especially vulnerable during long periods of inactivity. Here’s how to keep them healthy:
1. Disconnect the Battery
If leaving the battery in the motorcycle, disconnect the negative terminal to avoid parasitic drain.
2. Keep It Charged
Use a battery charger suited for motorcycles to maintain a float charge through the winter months.
3. Regular Inspections
Look for corrosion or signs of damage. Clean terminals with a baking soda solution to keep connections efficient and reliable.
Winter doesn’t have to mean trouble for your battery systems. With a little preparation and regular maintenance, you can avoid the frustration of flat batteries and ensure your vehicles and equipment are ready when you need them. From daily drivers to weekend cruisers and everything in between—proper care now means peace of mind all winter long.
Need help choosing the right battery or charger this winter? Contact the RedPoint team—we’re here to help you stay powered through the season.
