Maintenance, Charging and Storage 

BATTERY MAINTENANCE

The OPTIMA^® battery is truly maintenance free. When charged properly you will not have to worry about leaking, corrosion, or gassing. Periodically inspect your battery terminal connections to ensure they are clean, snug, and protected from the elements.

Open circuit voltage (OCV) and storage: OCV: all REDTOP^® and BLUETOP^® SLI >12.8 volts (for a fully charged battery)

YELLOWTOP^® and BLUETOP Deep Cycle >13.0 volts (for a fully charged battery)

CHARGING

The following charging methods are recommended to ensure a long battery life. Always use a voltage-regulated charger, with voltage limits set as described below.

Alternator

13.8 to 15.0 volts

Battery Charger (Constant Voltage)

13.8 to 15.0 volts, 10 amps, 12-15 hours approximate

Float Charge

13.2 to 13.8 volts, 1 amp maximum current

Rapid Recharge (Constant Voltage Charger)

Maximum voltage 15.6 volts. No current limit as long as temperature remains below 50°C. Charge until current drops below 1 amp.

Recharge Time (100% discharge – 10.5 volts)

Recharge time will vary according to temperature and charger characteristics. When using constant voltage chargers, current will taper down as the battery becomes recharged. When current drops below 1 amp, the battery will be close to a full state of charge.

Cyclic Application or String Series Applications

Constant voltage with constant current finish (CC/CV): 14.7 volts, temperature < 50°C, no current limits. When current falls below 1 amp, finish with 3 amps constant current for one hour for type 5.5 and 2 amps for all other types.

All charge recommendations assume an average room temperature of 25°C.

BATTERY STORAGE

Due to its unique high purity lead grid construction the OPTIMA battery has a self-discharge rate much lower than conventional flat plate batteries. This means the OPTIMA can be stored for longer periods of inactivity whilst retaining enough charge to start your vehicle. Depending on storage temperature, the OPTIMA can usually stand for 8 to 12 months and start most vehicles.When possible, store your battery in a cool, dry location. Check the battery voltage every 6 months and charge if it falls below 12.6 volts.

Remember, newer vehicles with on-board electronics such as computers, alarms, etc., require battery power to retain system memory while the vehicle is parked. If the vehicle is to be stored for long periods you should use a maintenance charger to compensate for this drain. This charger should be voltage regulated between 13.2 - 13.8 volts, 1 amp maximum. On older vehicles, without electronics, disconnect the battery cables when the vehicle is not being used for extended periods.