Smelly leisure battery

M

Mr Bean

Messages
4
Location
London
Vehicle
T6 Ocean 150
I had new glow plugs fitted to my T6 Ocean last week and now my leisure battery smells horrible (rotten eggs). Is there any connection between the two? Or is it a coincidence?
 
I can't see how one would cause the other, but that sounds very bad!! And something that needs sorting ASAP!!
 
I had new glow plugs fitted to my T6 Ocean last week and now my leisure battery smells horrible (rotten eggs). Is there any connection between the two? Or is it a coincidence?
Very likely a coincidence. How old are the leisure batteries?

A leisure battery emitting a sulphur or "rotten egg" smell indicates hydrogen sulfide gas is being released, typically due to overcharging, which can also make the battery hot and cause permanent damage. To address this dangerous situation, you should immediately disconnect the power source, ventilate the area, and allow the battery to cool down before removing it. The issue likely lies with the battery itself or the charger, which will need to be tested and potentially replaced by a specialist.
What the Smell Means

  • Hydrogen Sulfide (H2S):The rotten egg smell is hydrogen sulfide gas, which is toxic and can be harmful.
  • Overcharging or Battery Failure:The most common cause is a battery that is being overcharged by the charger or is failing internally, leading to offgassing and potential boiling of the electrolyte.
  • Heat:The battery is likely getting hot to the touch, which is a sign of overcharging or internal damage.
 
Had a similar experience recently and I was told that the battery is made up of 6 cells of 2.1volts each, so if you disconnect it totally, you can test it with a voltmeter. If you measure 10.5volts for example,(5 x 2.1) this confirms that one of the cells is damaged and requires a battery replacement
 
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