Why is Neutralising Battery Acid and Cleaning Essential?

This article tackles the question of why neutralising battery acid and cleaning your battery is an important part of caring for flooded lead-acid (FLA) batteries, commonly found in golf carts and utility vehicles like the Club Car Carryall. When it comes to low-speed vehicles (LSVs), proper battery cleaning plays a key role in the overall health and longevity of your cart.

What actually happens during a charging cycle?

With FLA batteries, hydrogen gas is released into the air. This gas carries tiny droplets of water and acid, which can settle on nearby surfaces. Over time, this build-up causes corrosion around your battery and terminals if not properly cleaned. This is a normal part of the charging process, but if ignored, it can shorten battery life and lead to performance issues.

That’s why it’s important to use a battery acid neutraliser to remove any acid residue. The most effective way to do this is with a simple homemade mix: 1 litre of water and 2 teaspoons of baking soda (sodium bicarbonate). Pour it into a spray bottle to make application easier. Just using water alone won’t remove the acid — it will only spread it around.

Step-by-step guide for cleaning FLA batteries

1. Make sure all vent caps are closed tightly
2. Spray the neutralising solution and allow it to sit for at least 3 minutes
3. Wipe the top and sides of the batteries with a cloth or soft brush
4. Rinse with clean water to remove the residue
5. Dry the batteries thoroughly with a cloth
6. Clean the terminals with a battery post and terminal brush
7. Reconnect all terminals securely

This process should be done regularly to help extend the life of your lead-acid batteries and reduce the risk of corrosion-related issues.

Note: These cleaning and neutralising steps apply to flooded lead-acid batteries only. Lithium batteries are sealed and maintenance-free, and do not require acid neutralisation.