Skip to content
motorbeast logo
  • Autos
  • Audio
  • Bikes
  • Batteries
  • Detailing
  • Oils
  • Parts
  • Questions
  • Roof Boxes
  • Scanners

Alum vs. Epsom Salt Battery: Which is better for old battery reconditioning?

Written BySteve Riley Updated on28/07/2022

Alum vs. Epsom Salt BatteryIf you are looking for a DIY way to restore your old…

alum-vs-epsom-salt-battery-which-is-better-for-old-battery-reconditioning

Alum vs. Epsom Salt Battery

If you are looking for a DIY way to restore your old LABs then you have come to the right place. Take a look at Alum vs. Epsom Salt batteries where we discuss how batteries are restored using these salts, how they perform and how they compare.

Table of Contents
  • Alum vs. Epsom Salt Battery
  • What are the differences between Alum and Epsom Salt Battery?
  • Alum vs. Epsom Salt Battery- How do they differ?
    • Preparation
    • Side effects in excess
    • Holding charge
  • Alum vs. Epsom Salt Battery – Comparison review
    • Alum- Overview and Key features
    • Epsom Salt Battery- Overview and key features
  • Verdict, so which one is better: Alum or Epsom Salt Battery?
alum-vs-epsom-salt-battery-which-is-better-for-old-battery-reconditioning

One major issue with Lead Acid batteries is the occurrence of sulfation. When left unattended, this phenomenon will affect the battery plates permanently. To keep this in check, you can introduce electrolytes in various compartments within the battery to improve electrical performance and restore said battery from effects of sulfation. In fact, this reconditioning is the only instance where users are encouraged to change the chemistry/physics of a battery for beneficial reasons.

Today, we review two salts used in the conversion of old/failing batteries. Alum and Epsom salts are popular choices for making battery-restoring electrolyte solutions. Here is Alum vs. Epsom Salt battery for more.

What are the differences between Alum and Epsom Salt Battery?

 AlumEpsom Salt Battery
Chemical formulaXAl(SO. 4) 2·12H. 2O, Where X is usually PotassiumMg SO4

 

 

Chemical namepotassium aluminium sulfate dodecahydrateMagnesium sulphate
Amount to use1lb per gallon of distilled water8oz per quart of distilled water
 View hereView here

Alum vs. Epsom Salt Battery- How do they differ?

Both Alum and Epsom salt play essentially the same role in the battery reconditioning process. However, there are certain distinctions between how either salt behaves: in and outside solution that makes performance vary. Take a look at how Alum compares to Epsom salt

Preparation

In order to restore the battery, you must use both salts in solution form. Meaning users will have to prepare these solutions themselves and administer them within the battery as required. Unfortunately, Epsom salt does not dissolve as easily as Alum. This may be a slight difference, but users on a tight time budget will want to choose the quicker solution to prepare.

Side effects in excess

It is no surprise that not all reconditioned batteries can be saved: sometimes the extent of damage is too great for the electrolytes to help. However, sometimes, the reason the reconditioning fails is due to electrolyte concentration issues.

Yes, too much Alum or Epsom salt will affect the battery. For example: too much Magnesium Sulfate causes the corrosion of parts within the battery. Alternatively, too much Alum results in precipitation of the compound within the compartments. This could lead to low CCA (Cold Cranking Amps).

Holding charge

Epsom salt is interestingly better at holding charge when the electrolyte is saturated. This is compared to Alum salt which discharges faster and doesn’t seem to work as well as Epsom salt.

Depending on the format in which the alum is available, the resulting Lead Alum battery may have okay or below standard charge holding power. In fact, as we mentioned above, when overly saturated, the alum electrolyte solution will precipitate/separate from the water.

Alum vs. Epsom Salt Battery – Comparison review

Alum- Overview and Key features

Sale
McCormick Alum, 1.9 oz (3 Pack)
McCormick Alum, 1.9 oz (3 Pack)
  • Alum (Potassium Aluminum Sulfate) is a general purpose food...
  • Premium quality alum
  • Keeps pickles, fruits and vegetables firm and crispy
$8.67
Buy on Amazon Price incl. tax, excl. shipping

Last update on 2023-03-11 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Alum is a group chemical compound which is also used to refer to Potassium aluminum sulfate. It is the main component needed to make the solution for a Lead alum battery. Often, alum is used to make the electrolyte solution for restoring these old and worn batteries. This conversion offers a lucrative advantage to the user apart from restoring the battery from its deplorable state: because lead alum batteries have many benefits over lead acid batteries.

However, this electrolyte solution is only successful granted the extent of sulfation on your Lead Acid battery is reversible. Users are advised to check the extent of sulfation before attempting reconditioning.

Warnings aside, restoring your battery from sulfation is quite simple. One you are equipped with the necessary gear to perform this restoration: empty out the contents of the battery very carefully into a safe space. A paste like solution of 2 parts baking soda, 1 part water is essential for neutralizing the highly corrosive sulfuric acid. Moreover, this solution helps to take off any corrosion on the terminals especially. Agitate the battery with the paste inside it to neutralize the traces of acid within the battery, and dissolve the lead sulfate solids.

Next, fill the compartments with the Alum solution and ensure it is well distributed. The recommended dilution ratio changes depending on who you ask. An ideal 1lb to 1gallon of hot distilled ware should do. Charge the battery in accordance to your battery instructions, but typically for between 12-36hours for good performance.

Take caution not to use too much Alum as it will precipitate when the electrolyte starts to cool. The effect of this precipitation within battery chambers could influence performance of your Lead Alum battery.

In summary, while alum cannot replace acid in the lead battery set up, it is a good way to recondition an old battery for use within your space.

Pros

  • Different variations of Alum to choose from
  • Great for restoring batteries

Cons

  • Different alum variations have varying performance levels

Epsom Salt Battery- Overview and key features

SaltWorks Ultra Epsom Bath Salt, Unscented, Medium Grain, 50...
SaltWorks Ultra Epsom Bath Salt, Unscented, Medium Grain, 50...
  • EXCEPTIONAL PURITY AND THERAPEUTIC VALUE; Ultra Epsom Salt...
  • BENEFITS INCLUDE relaxing the nervous system, curing skin...
  • Works well for float tanks, bath salts, body scrubs, sore...
  • DISSOLVES WITH EASE for quick and efficient use
  • KOSHER CERTIFIED, Allergen and cruelty-free and devoid of...
$140.00
Buy on Amazon Price incl. tax, excl. shipping

Last update on 2023-03-11 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Many users recognize Epsom salt, or Magnesium Sulfate, from all its many usages except restoring your battery. Indeed, Epsom salt is a popular choice of salt for reconditioning older LABs that no longer hold charge. This is with good reason.

The process is pretty much the same as the alum electrolyte reconditioning process discussed above.

Again: begin this process by ensuring all mandatory safety precautions are taken, including performing this process in an open, well ventilated space. The rest of the procedure is pretty straight forward considering the only difference is with the dissolving ratios, preparation conditions and results.

Ideally, the ratios for a suitable Epsom salt solution are 8ounces of magnesium sulfate in a quart of warm water. Always sue preferentially distilled water to avoid introducing chemicals into your battery system. After connecting to a charger overnight, the battery should function quite normally.

You are cautioned not to use too much of the Epsom salt. This is because in high concentrations, the electrolyte will corrode the plates and internal components.

Pros

  • Easy process to perform: when done safely
  • Offers longer charge holding times

Cons

  • You mustn’t use too much Epsom salt as it could corrode the parts

Verdict, so which one is better: Alum or Epsom Salt Battery?

While both salts function pretty much the same, Epsom salt does a better job compared to Alum in reconditioning old Lead Acid Batteries. The process is not as tedious as you would thinks and ends up saving you a lot in battery purchases or replacements.

Post Views: 33
Post Tags: #Batteries#Deep Cycle Batteries

Related Posts

  • A Guide on Interstate Batteries
  • Battery Terminal Corrosion Causes, how To Remove, Prevention
  • How to Revive a Dead Motorcycle Battery
  • How to recondition batteries: Complete Guide to car battery care
  • Which is the BEST battery ACDelco VS Interstate Batteries

Optima RED TOP Batteries

Very Highly Rated Batteries


Optima Batteries 8004-003 

Optima Batteries 8004-003 34/78 RedTop Starting Battery
Take a Peak

Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:

Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.


Optima Batteries 8020-164

Optima Batteries 8020-164 35 RedTop Starting Battery
Take a Peak

Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:

Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.


Optima Batteries OPT8022-091

Optima Batteries OPT8022-091 8022-091 75/25 RedTop Starting Battery
Take a Peak

Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:

Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.


Optima Yellow Top Batteries


Optima Battery 8171

Optima 8171-767 DS46B24R Yellow Top Prius Battery
Take a Peak

Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:

Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.


Optima Batteries OPT8014-045 

Optima Batteries OPT8014-045 8014-045 D34/78 YellowTop Dual Purpose Battery
Take a Peak

Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:

Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.


Optima Batteries OPT8040-218

Optima Batteries OPT8040-218 D35 YellowTop Dual Purpose Battery
Take a Peak

Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:

Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.

Affiliate Disclosure

We are an affiliate. We hope you like our recommendations! Just so you know, we may collect a share of sales or other compensation from the links on this website. Thank you for using our links, it helps to grow our website.

  • Privacy Policy
  • Affiliate Disclosure
  • Contact Us
  • About Us
  • Cookie Policy
  • Privacy Statement

© 2023 MotorBeast Motorbeast.Org

Manage your privacy

To provide the best experiences, we and our partners use technologies like cookies to store and/or access device information. Consenting to these technologies will allow us and our partners to process personal data such as browsing behavior or unique IDs on this site. Not consenting or withdrawing consent, may adversely affect certain features and functions.

Click below to consent to the above or make granular choices. Your choices will be applied to this site only. You can change your settings at any time, including withdrawing your consent, by using the toggles on the Cookie Policy, or by clicking on the manage consent button at the bottom of the screen.

Functional Always active
The technical storage or access is strictly necessary for the legitimate purpose of enabling the use of a specific service explicitly requested by the subscriber or user, or for the sole purpose of carrying out the transmission of a communication over an electronic communications network.
Preferences
The technical storage or access is necessary for the legitimate purpose of storing preferences that are not requested by the subscriber or user.
Statistics
The technical storage or access that is used exclusively for statistical purposes. The technical storage or access that is used exclusively for anonymous statistical purposes. Without a subpoena, voluntary compliance on the part of your Internet Service Provider, or additional records from a third party, information stored or retrieved for this purpose alone cannot usually be used to identify you.
Marketing
The technical storage or access is required to create user profiles to send advertising, or to track the user on a website or across several websites for similar marketing purposes.
Statistics

Marketing

Features
Always active

Always active
Manage options Manage services Manage vendors Read more about these purposes
Manage options
{title} {title} {title}
Manage your privacy
To provide the best experiences, we use technologies like cookies to store and/or access device information. Consenting to these technologies will allow us to process data such as browsing behavior or unique IDs on this site. Not consenting or withdrawing consent, may adversely affect certain features and functions.
Functional Always active
The technical storage or access is strictly necessary for the legitimate purpose of enabling the use of a specific service explicitly requested by the subscriber or user, or for the sole purpose of carrying out the transmission of a communication over an electronic communications network.
Preferences
The technical storage or access is necessary for the legitimate purpose of storing preferences that are not requested by the subscriber or user.
Statistics
The technical storage or access that is used exclusively for statistical purposes. The technical storage or access that is used exclusively for anonymous statistical purposes. Without a subpoena, voluntary compliance on the part of your Internet Service Provider, or additional records from a third party, information stored or retrieved for this purpose alone cannot usually be used to identify you.
Marketing
The technical storage or access is required to create user profiles to send advertising, or to track the user on a website or across several websites for similar marketing purposes.
Manage options Manage services Manage vendors Read more about these purposes
Manage options
{title} {title} {title}
Scroll to top
  • Autos
  • Audio
  • Bikes
  • Batteries
  • Detailing
  • Oils
  • Parts
  • Questions
  • Roof Boxes
  • Scanners
Search