(MENAFN- Gulf Times) Shop owners in Qatar have recorded an increase in sales of automotive batteries this summer as many motorists replace their old car batteries, whose lifespan significantly decreases due to high temperatures.
This season, Al Sadd Trading Company has estimated a 50% to 60% increase in battery sales, a staff told Gulf Times.
"In the winter, around 10 to 15 automotive batteries may be sold in a month, but sales see a significant uptake during summer. Peak season sales register at least 150 to 200 batteries being sold monthly to customers," he said.
Asked what type of car battery is popular in Qatar, he said while there is a sizable range of brands available in the market, "most customers simply prefer maintenance-free batteries."
A technician at a well-known Japanese car distributor based in Qatar said the high summer temperature takes its toll on car batteries because the heat dries up the battery fluid and lessens its lifespan.
"This is the reason why a car battery suddenly dies, leaving the vehicle owner in a predicament. In Qatar, this is a common incident especially for motorists who pay minimal or no attention at all to their cars," he said.
According to him, one in 10 drivers would claim battery warranties during the winter season. "However, our office accommodates five out of 10 warranty claims, or even more, during the summer months," he added.
Knowing car battery maintenance and safety helps prolong a battery's lifespan, he said. However, even if a vehicle gets regular maintenance at service centres, battery life decreases due to several factors such as leaving parking lights on overnight, or leaving the air-conditioning unit (AC) on for longer periods, among others.
He said the driving habits of motorists also affect battery life: "Avoid frequent start-stop cycles because it increases the load on the battery. This practice is detrimental to your batteries, especially when driving short distances because less driving time does not allow the batteries to recharge."
He added that starting the car while the AC, radio and headlights are on subjects the batteries to higher loads thus, lowering battery life.
Other personal maintenance procedure such as cleaning battery terminals and looking out for sulfation could help prolong battery life.
"Automotive batteries in the Middle East usually have a lifespan of two years or more depending on the driving habits of the vehicle owner. Using a battery car tester at home before driving could also save motorists from the hassles of sudden battery death during the hot weather," he added.
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