Battery Depot kept busy during cold snap

The recent cold snap has resulted in a steady stream of customers at the Battery Depot in Regina.

“This cold weather is a havoc on the batteries at this time of the year,” said Gary Gaudon, the store’s assistant manager.

He said batteries lose their capacity in the frigid temperatures and the usual advice is that drivers should plug in their vehicles’ block heaters.

But it’s not just the cold that can prevent a car from starting.

Gaudon said cars today come with all sorts of screens and devices, which are a drain on the battery.

He recommends switching it all off before shutting off the ignition — and that includes interior lights.

Gaudon also suggests getting a battery maintainer to stay charged.

“If you’re driving every day, you’re OK but at the same token, if you’re parked three or four days, especially when it’s cold out, have the maintainer on. It keeps the battery warm so you can carry on,” he said.