Using condensed water of Air Conditioner to top up a battery

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the suitability of using condensed water from air conditioners to top up flooded lead acid batteries, which typically require distilled water for maintenance. Participants explore various water sources and their potential contaminants.

Discussion Character

  • Debate/contested
  • Technical explanation

Main Points Raised

  • Some participants suggest that water condensed by air conditioners could be a viable option for topping up batteries, while others express concerns about potential contaminants.
  • One participant mentions using water from a dehumidifier successfully for years, implying it may be a suitable alternative.
  • Concerns are raised about dust accumulation in air conditioner components, with some participants noting that contaminants may settle at the bottom of the collection bucket.
  • There is a suggestion that in certain climates, algae could grow in the condensation pipes, which could pose a risk if used for battery maintenance.
  • Another participant emphasizes the importance of using distilled water, particularly for expensive batteries, suggesting that the risks of using alternative water sources may outweigh the benefits.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants do not reach a consensus on the use of condensed water from air conditioners for battery maintenance. Multiple competing views regarding the safety and suitability of various water sources remain present.

Contextual Notes

Participants acknowledge that all suggested water sources may contain contaminants, and there are concerns about the implications of using non-distilled water on battery longevity and performance.

signode
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Hi;

As we know that flooded lead acid battery needs to be top-up (watering) after passage of some time and it is recommended to use distilled water.
Many people say that water condensed by Air Conditioner is also very good to top-up the battery. Is it true?
 
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Rain water.
 
I have used water from a dehumidifier for many years.
 
It would make me nervous because fan+coil=dust collector.
 
russ_watters said:
It would make me nervous because fan+coil=dust collector.

There can be things that collect like you say. Usually they settle to the bottom of the bucket and are thrown out with the tail end of the water.
 
Does proper distilled water coat that much that you want to degrade your battery? All of these suggestions will have contaminants.
 
Windadct said:
Does proper distilled water coat that much that you want to degrade your battery? All of these suggestions will have contaminants.

You have no idea how many batteries I have to maintain. I have used this method successfully for years.
 
signode said:
Many people say that water condensed by Air Conditioner is also very good to top-up the battery. Is it true?
It may be true, in some cases. But in some climates I'd expect to find algae, the dripping pipes can be green with algae. Filtering would at least remove the bigger clumps.

Still, I think your boss would probably prefer that you used distilled water in his expensive batteries. :wink:
 

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