Battery Service

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ADJUSTED SPECIFIC GRAVITY READINGS
Temperature correction is needed because specific gravity changes with temperature. Cold thickens the electrolyte and raises the specific gravity. Heat thins the electrolyte and lowers the specific gravity. Hydrometers are calibrated at 80'F (26.7'C). Electrolyte temperatures above or below 80'F must be adjusted. For every 10'F increment below 80'F, subtract 0.004 to the hydrometer readings, and for each 10'F increment above 80'F, add 0.004 to the readings. See the examples below.