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A lot of us love summertime. The sun, beach trips, and warm weather help to create some of our best memories. However, high temperatures can wreak havoc on our vehicles and drain our car’s battery faster than in other conditions. Our buying guide below will help you choose the right battery for your vehicle so it operates properly during hot weather.
Benefits of Car Batteries for Hot Weather
- Additional engine power. Replacing a car battery ignites the plug much stronger and stabilizes the supply of electricity much better and faster than an old battery.
- Prevents sudden dead battery. Replacing the car battery eliminates any worry that your car suddenly won’t start due to a dead battery.
Types of Car Batteries for Hot Weather
Deep Cycle
This type of car battery offers some of the strongest power for small vehicles and can provide sustained power over a longer period of time compared to other battery types. Deep cycle batteries are ideal for small recreational vehicles, golf carts, and marine vehicles.
Lithium-Ion
This is the most common battery used in vehicles on the road today. They’re suitable for a wide range of hybrids and electric cars. Lithium-ion batteries can store a significant amount of energy at a fraction of the weight compared to most lead-acid batteries. However, these types of car batteries feature a shorter battery life, and you’ll typically need to replace your car battery around every three years.
Wet Cell
These are also commonly referred to as “flooded” batteries because they contain liquid. Wet cell batteries are one of the least expensive car batteries for hot weather, which is a huge advantage to most consumers. However, they don’t typically provide a long cycle life compared to other batteries, and some also require regular maintenance to prevent lost electrolytes.
Top Brands
Optima
Optima is a reputable company that launched in 1995 and produces a range of high-quality batteries, including those for cars and home use. A key feature of this brand is its dry cell technology. This technology ensures that the car battery remains long-lasting, even in high temperatures. From this brand, we recommend the Optima Batteries RedTop Starting Battery. This device delivers high power and is extremely resistant to the most common causes of battery failure.
Odyssey
Odyssey creates batteries that can handle many applications and vehicles that have a high-performance demand. Its batteries are ideal for daily use and feature all the power and endurance you need to get you through. We recommend the Odyssey Automotive and LTV Battery. This product offers a three- to 10-year service life. Unlike many other car batteries designed for hot weather, this battery features a non-spillage, mounting flexible design for safety and convenience.
XS Power
XS Power car batteries are affordable and efficient. These high-powered car batteries are long-lasting and feature everything you need for drag racing to boat racing. From its selection of batteries, we recommend the XS Power D3400 12V Battery. It’s compatible with a wide range of vehicles from 12-16V models.
Best Car Batteries for Hot Weather Pricing
- $20-$50: In this price range, the car battery will be heavy and not as reliable as more expensive devices. The battery will also feature non-corrosion materials.
- $50-$150: High-performing car batteries in this price range work even in the summer heat, and they’re generally spill-proof.
- $150 and up: The most expensive car batteries have the highest reserve capacity and feature the highest possible amps, making the device durable and reliable.
Key Features
Ampere Hour (Ah)
This is one of the most important features when it comes to buying a car battery for hot weather. A higher Ah number means the battery can maintain a load for lengthy periods. As a result, the battery will run out less frequently. This additional feature comes at an extra cost, so bear this in mind.
Warranty
We don’t recommend purchasing a car battery without a warranty to provide you with added peace of mind. Consider checking what’s covered with the warranty, too. Some companies offer a free replacement, while others will happily give you a portion of the money you paid for the product. You should also consider the level of customer service, especially if you’re inexperienced with mechanical tools.
Power Capacity
The battery’s power capacity is usually referred to as CA, or cranking amp. The cranking amp is referred to as the energy that the battery needs to start the vehicle. If you’re looking for a battery to work in hot weather, opt for a car battery with a low CA to ensure it works.
Other Considerations
- Battery Size. Car batteries are available in a range of lengths, widths, and heights. Check your car owner’s manual or consult a mechanic to make note of the correct dimensions of your car battery. The correct size prevents the battery from becoming damaged due to vibrations.
- Reserve Capacity. This feature refers to the amount of time the battery can run on its own power without the engine before it stops working. A high reserve capacity prevents your battery from dying due to situations such as accidentally leaving your lights on, a noncompliant engine, and other factors. You should opt for at least 10 hours as a minimum for your own peace of mind.
- Maintenance. Believe it or not, some car batteries require maintenance, while others are maintenance-free. The maintenance-free car battery is typically sealed and doesn’t require any replacements. Alternatively, a low-maintenance battery is typically unsealed and requires you to occasionally add water. As a result, these are generally the cheapest options, though you need to be vigilant in maintaining them.
Best Car Batteries for Hot Weather Reviews & Recommendations 2021
Best Overall
Odyssey Automotive and LTV Battery
Best Value
ACDelco Professional BCI Group 48 Battery u0026nbsp;
Honorable Mention
u003cstrongu003eOptima Batteries RedTop Starting Batteryu003c/strongu003e
Best Compact
u0026nbsp;Optima Batteries RedTop Starting Battery
Most Robust
ACDelco Advantage AGM Automotive Battery
Longest Lasting
Odyssey Automotive and LTV Battery
Best Premium
XS Power Series High Output Battery
Largest and Toughest
NorthStar AGM Marine Battery
Tips
- It is important to test your car’s battery, as it will help you determine the life of your battery. Most automotive service centers will be able to do this for you.
- Make certain that your battery connections are clean and corrosion-free. This will be helpful if you ever have to jump-start your vehicle.
- Pay attention to the battery’s manufacture date. This will give you an idea of how old your battery is and when it may be time to purchase a new one.
FAQs
Q: What drains my battery faster?
There are various things that can drain your car’s battery faster, especially in hotter weather. This includes running the air conditioning frequently and overuse of power windows.
Q: Will my radiator fan cause a strain on my battery?
Yes, in the hot weather, especially in the summer, your radiator fan can cause a strain on your vehicle’s battery. It also can push your alternator to its limit.
Q: How long will my car battery last?
Ideally, car batteries can last up to five years. But it all depends on the make and model of the battery.
Final Thoughts
The Odyssey Automotive and LTV Battery is our top pick for its manufactured pure virgin lead, which makes for more power in your vehicle. Our best value pick is the ACDelco Professional BCI Group 48 Battery.