How Batteries Leave the Factory
Yuasa Absorbent Glass Mat (AGM) Batteries leave the factory either Factory Activated or Bottle Supplied. It’s important to know the difference between the two states and what it means for your Yuasa Battery:
- Factory Activated (FA) – the battery is filled with electrolyte, sealed and charged at the factory. These batteries must be used within a period of time and cannot be stored indefinitely.
- Bottle Supplied (BS) – dry AGM batteries are shipped with the electrolyte stored in a plastic container. The battery is filled with electrolyte from the container when it’s ready to be activated. AGM dry batteries have a shelf life of 5 years from the manufacturer as long as they remain sealed. A proper seal for AGM batteries means a foil sealing strip is in place on the battery without damage or flaw. Once a battery is unsealed, it should be activated, charged, and installed. The plates of an unsealed battery will begin to oxidize, making it more difficult to charge later.
Activating an AGM battery (BS) is simple and differs from the activation of a Conventional battery. Non-activated AGM batteries can be stored for long periods of time as long as they are kept in a cool, dry place and out of direct sunlight. One should never remove the foil sealing strip covering the filler ports until the battery is ready to be activated. Do not use anything but the electrolyte container that comes with the battery for filling the cells as it is a higher concentration of sulfuric acid than that used in Conventional batteries. It’s also important to note that not all electrolyte containers are created equal. Typically, each container has the proper amount of electrolyte for its specific battery. Always read the precautions and instructions on the electrolyte container before handling and filling your battery. Do not smoke when activating a battery or handling battery acid. Always wear plastic gloves and protective eye wear.
