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Repair Batteries With Epsom Salts

Repair Batteries With Epsom Salts

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If you have a vehicle or machine battery that doesn’t hold a charge or is plain dead, you may be able to bring it back to life with some Epsom salts.  These minerals create a chemical reaction within batteries that can increase their longevity while potentially enhancing their charge time as well.  But, Epsom salts do not actually charge the batteries. They only enable them to better store and then conduct electricity.  So, any batteries that are treated in this manner will need to be charged prior to use.

The first step is to remove the portion of the lid on the top of the battery that covers the reservoirs.  Each battery is designed differently, and most of them will have a smaller covering over this area in addition to the main lid assembly.  You are looking to pry off the part that is opposite from the terminals.  Some older batteries only have one lid that covers everything, and this may need to be removed in rare cases.  It is important not to damage the lid when prying it off because it will need to be reattached once you are finished.

Additionally, you will find that some lids are easier to remove, and it’s a good idea to have a few different sizes of prying tools on hand in case you need some extra leverage.  On some batteries, all you will need is a flat head screwdriver whereas others will require something like a crowbar for tires.  You also may need to take a hammer and chisel in order to get the job done.

Once you’ve removed the lid, wipe it down with a dry cloth and make sure that the underside is free and clear of debris. You also want to make sure that the top of the battery is clean as well.  You will notice that the battery has a number of holes or reservoirs that may or may not have liquid in them.  Some people say that these should be drained with a suction device such as a turkey baster, but others say it doesn’t matter, and that the liquid can be reused.

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You want to prepare the Epsom salts by dissolving at least six teaspoons of salts into every cup of water.  The best way to ensure that the salts are fully dissolved and creating a charge in the water is by boiling it first.  Then, slowly stir in the salts until all of the grit and cloudiness of the water disappears.  The water should be crystal clear before removing it from heat.

Take a funnel, and slowly pour the water and salt mixture into each of the reservoirs until they are almost full.  You can also inject the mixture into the reservoirs with a meat baster or large syringe as well.  Don’t worry if you over-fill the reservoirs.   You can blot off the excess water once the lid is reattached.   Once you have filled each one, carefully attach the lid and make sure that is is securely affixed to the battery.

 

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All you need to do is charge the battery and it will be as good as new in no time.  This is one trick that can be used over and over again as long as the battery is intact and in good condition.  You can also add the Epsom salts directly to the reservoirs and then pour water into each one, stirring with a Popsicle stick or the handle of a wooden spoon.  However,  it is much better to mix the water and salts together prior to placing it into the battery as the chemicals will be more thoroughly blended.

As long as you can find a way to charge the battery, this trick will work in many cases. Don’t put those old batteries to waste.  Give yourself more power options as well as greater savings by putting some extra Epsom salts to use.

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