Correctly charging and maintaining the newest generation of batteries is a different process than the older batteries so many are used to. The process of making sure a modern performance battery can continue to pack a punch isn’t complicated, but needs to be taken into account during off-season months. Jim Mcllvaine from OPTIMA Batteries has gone over what you need to know to keep your new battery in top shape at all times.

It doesn’t matter what you drive, high-performance vehicles have considerably more electronics packed into them these days. All these different devices are snatching additional power from the electric system in your vehicle, so your battery has to be ready for action at all times since there are even systems that run when the car is turned off. Batteries like those from OPTIMA use advanced cell technology so they can deal with serious performance-related abuse on a regular basis.

According to Mcllvaine, there are some basic things you can do to help make sure you’re charging your battery correctly to avoid possible issues.

“Many newer battery chargers are microprocessor-controlled and collect information from the battery and adjust the voltage and amperage output accordingly like the OPTIMA Chargers Digital 1200 12V Performance Charger and Battery Maintainer. You also want to look for a charger with a de-sulfation mode to help condition your battery and keep it performing at its best. Also, don’t rely on your alternator to do the work of a charger. An alternator is meant to maintain a battery that is near a full state of charge, not recharging deeply-discharged batteries that just needed a jump from another battery.”

To keep the newer absorbed glass mat batteries like those from OPTIMA performing their best, calculated maintenance is required. Even though these batteries have a lower self-discharge rate you still need to take steps so they will continue to function well after periods of non-use.

“You can take the battery out of the car during storage to make sure the vehicle’s systems aren’t draining it. If removing it is difficult you can’t totally unhook the battery to stop any draw on the battery during seasonal storage. If you have access to electricity, keeping battery voltage properly-maintained at all times is the best way to maximize both performance and lifespan. By following these suggestions you will see better performance from your battery, a longer life, less downtime dealing with discharged batteries and less money spent replacing batteries early that weren’t properly-maintained,” Mcllvaine says.

You can check out OPTIMA’s website for more information about how to charge and maintain their newer style batteries.