Whether your equipment is used daily in the field, seasonally or in harsh conditions – battery performance plays a major role in productivity. Replacing batteries too often can increase costs and lead to unnecessary downtime. The good news? A few simple habits can significantly extend battery life and help your equipment perform at its best.
Looking for a battery?
1. Avoid Deep Discharges
One of the quickest ways to reduce battery lifespan is allowing batteries to drain completely before recharging. Most modern rechargeable batteries perform best when they are recharged before reaching critically low levels. This is the “oops I left the lights on all night” scenario.
Tip: Charge batteries when they reach approximately 20–30% capacity rather than waiting until they’re completely depleted. Test your battery with a battery tester or charger prior to its busy season, after prolonged storage and immediately if cranking seems to be hindered.
2. Store Batteries at the Right Temperature
Extreme temperatures can have a major impact on battery health. Excessive heat accelerates battery degradation, while freezing temperatures can temporarily reduce performance and capacity.
Best Practice:
- Store batteries in a cool, dry environment.
- Avoid leaving equipment in direct sunlight or warm conditions*.
- Allow batteries to warm to room temperature before charging if they’ve been exposed to cold conditions.*
*This can clearly be difficult for larger equipment users. A battery maintainer can save large equipment owners big time. Instead of getting a new battery every season, a small upfront expense can save you a lot more and keep your battery healthy for years.
3. Use the Correct Charger
Using chargers that aren’t designed for your equipment can lead to inefficient charging, overheating, or damage over time.
Tip: Always use manufacturer-approved chargers and charging accessories to ensure optimal performance and safety.
4. Keep Battery Contacts Clean
Dirty or corroded contacts can reduce charging efficiency and lead to poor equipment performance.
Tip: Do you have a battery under your zero turn seat? Might want to check on it. Grass tends to find a way to settle in there and can lower the quality of the battery environment.
Maintenance Checklist:
- Inspect battery contacts regularly.
- Remove dirt or debris with a clean, dry cloth.
- Address corrosion promptly according to manufacturer recommendations. Here’s a video from John Deere about how to inspect and clean battery terminals!
5. Avoid Long-Term Storage at Full Charge
If equipment will be stored for an extended period, keeping batteries at 100% charge can accelerate wear.
Best Practice: For long-term storage, maintain batteries at approximately 40–60% charge and check them periodically.
If you just bought it and it’s at 100%
You have a few options:
- Best option: Use the mower for a short time before storage. Mow a little, run the self-propel feature, or otherwise use the battery until it’s roughly half charged.
- If the mower has lights or powered accessories, running those can also bring the charge down gradually.
6. Reduce Unnecessary Power Consumption
Simple operational habits can help conserve battery energy throughout the workday.
Consider:
- Turning equipment off when not in use.
- Reducing screen brightness where applicable.
- Disabling features or accessories that aren’t needed.
- Keeping software and firmware updated to improve power management.
7. Follow a Regular Maintenance Schedule
Routine inspections help identify battery issues before they become costly problems. Monitoring battery condition, charging behavior, and operating performance can improve both reliability and longevity. At TriGreen Equipment, we have great Winter Service specials yearly that can help check and maintain your battery as you head into colder months.
Remember: A well-maintained battery not only lasts longer but also helps maximize equipment uptime and productivity.
Final Thoughts
Extending battery life doesn’t require major changes—just consistent habits. By charging batteries properly, avoiding temperature extremes, using the correct charging equipment, and following routine maintenance practices, organizations can reduce replacement costs, improve equipment reliability, and get more value from every battery cycle.
A few minutes of preventive care today can help keep your equipment running longer tomorrow.
TriGreen Equipment carries John Deere tested and approved StrongBox batteries! Proven to last in rugged environments, these batteries keep all types and brands of equipment running smooth. Learn more about StrongBox here. e batteries keep all types and brands of equipment running smooth. Learn more about StrongBox here.
