Hey there! As a supplier of portable air compressors, I often get asked about the storage conditions for their batteries, especially for models that are battery - powered. So, let's dive right into it.
First off, not all portable air compressors come with a battery. Some are powered by diesel, like our Diesel Mobile Air Compressor, or are engine - driven, such as the Engine Drive Air Compressor. But for those that do have a battery, proper storage is super important to keep the battery in good shape and ensure the compressor works well when you need it.
Temperature
Temperature plays a huge role in battery storage. Batteries are like humans in a way; they don't like extreme conditions. Most portable air compressor batteries are lithium - ion or lead - acid types.
For lithium - ion batteries, the ideal storage temperature is between 10°C and 30°C (50°F - 86°F). If it's too hot, say above 30°C, the battery can degrade faster. Chemical reactions inside the battery speed up at high temperatures, which can cause the battery to lose its capacity over time. On the other hand, if it's below 10°C, the battery's performance can be affected. The internal resistance of the battery increases in cold temperatures, and you might find that the compressor doesn't run as long or as powerfully as it should.
Lead - acid batteries have a similar but slightly wider temperature range. They can tolerate a bit more cold, but it's still best to store them between 5°C and 35°C (41°F - 95°F). Cold temperatures can reduce the battery's ability to deliver power, and hot temperatures can cause the electrolyte in the battery to evaporate, which can damage the battery plates.
Charge Level
Another crucial factor is the charge level of the battery when you store it. You don't want to store a battery that's fully charged or completely dead.
For lithium - ion batteries, it's recommended to store them at around 50% charge. If you store a lithium - ion battery at 100% charge for a long time, it can lead to something called "calendar aging." This means that even if you're not using the battery, it will still lose its capacity over time. Storing it at 0% charge is also bad because the battery can enter a deep - discharge state, from which it might not be able to recover.
Lead - acid batteries should also be stored at a partial charge. A fully discharged lead - acid battery can sulfate. Sulfation happens when lead sulfate crystals form on the battery plates, and this can reduce the battery's capacity and lifespan. It's a good idea to charge the lead - acid battery to about 70 - 80% before storing it.
Humidity
Humidity can be a real problem for battery storage. High humidity can cause corrosion on the battery terminals. Corrosion can prevent the battery from making a good electrical connection, which means the compressor might not work properly.
You should store the battery in a dry place. A humidity level of less than 60% is ideal. If you live in a very humid area, you might want to consider using a dehumidifier in the storage space. Also, make sure the battery is in a sealed container or at least covered to protect it from moisture in the air.
Storage Location
The location where you store the battery matters a lot. You don't want to store it in a place where it can be knocked around or exposed to physical damage. A dedicated storage cabinet or a toolbox can be a great option.
It's also important to keep the battery away from flammable materials. Batteries can produce hydrogen gas, especially during charging, and hydrogen is highly flammable. So, make sure the storage area is well - ventilated to prevent the build - up of hydrogen gas.
Maintenance During Storage
Even when the battery is in storage, it still needs some maintenance. You should check the battery's charge level every few months. If the charge level has dropped significantly, you'll need to recharge it.
For lead - acid batteries, you might also need to check the electrolyte level. If the electrolyte is low, you can add distilled water to bring it up to the proper level. But be careful not to overfill it.
Special Considerations for Different Applications
If you're using a portable air compressor for sandblasting, like our Compressor for Sandblasting, the battery might be under more stress. Sandblasting requires a lot of power, so the battery might be more prone to wear and tear. You might need to be even more careful with the storage conditions and do more frequent maintenance.
Conclusion
Proper storage of a portable air compressor's battery is essential for its longevity and performance. By paying attention to temperature, charge level, humidity, storage location, and maintenance, you can ensure that your battery lasts as long as possible and your compressor is always ready to go when you need it.
If you're in the market for a portable air compressor or have any questions about battery storage or our products, don't hesitate to reach out. We're here to help you make the best choice for your needs and ensure that you get the most out of your purchase. Whether you need a battery - powered compressor or one of our other great models, we've got you covered.
References
- Battery University: A great resource for all things related to battery technology and storage.
- Manufacturer's manuals for portable air compressors: These often contain specific information about battery storage and maintenance.
