Effects of Freezing Temperatures on Batteries

Battery performance is adversely affected by cold temperatures because temperature affects how a battery's charge is held and delivered. Batteries function by producing an electric current that is generated when a connection is made between the positive and negative terminals. When the terminals are connected it causes a chemical reaction that generates electrons which supply the battery's current. Cold or freezing temperatures will drastically slow this chemical reaction and will decrease the current that is produced. In this condition, batteries will quickly reach a point where they are unable to deliver enough current to keep up with demand once the battery warms up, it will operate normally again.