Somewhere I read that our batteries need to be ventilated. If so, how do I tell if the ventilation has been hooked up properly?

Thanks

 

Look at the Battery.

On the OEM Delco battery there is just a small tube from the upper side of the battery going out through a rubber grommet, pretty easy to see.

I replaced my battery with a high end high powered one for my audio and video install, no vent in it. Hasnt been a concern. I left the tube residing in the grommet, thats Vented.



Guess I live Dangerously.

 

I don't see any ventilation tube on a replacement I bought. That why I was asking. So, is it needed?

 

Yes its needed, as the battery is charged by the alternator it "off gasses" and produces hydrogen gas which is highly flammable and explosive. Plus the battery will occasionally vent liquid electrolyte, and you don't want that highly corrosive fluid in your spare tire well.

Its important to use the proper battery in an HHR with the external venting configuration, unless you go with an Optima gel cell battery.

 

I got the new battery from NTB and they swear it is the one required for the car.

 

If it doesn't have the vent tube, then it is not the correct replacement. Also the vent tube battery for the HHR is usually much higher in price.
I would take it back and ask NTB how you're supposed to hook up the vent tube to their so-called required replacement. Then ask for the "correct" replacement battery.

 

The battery stock in the HHR is what refurd as a flooded flat plate battery, will vent when the on charge the cell voltage reaches 2.36 VPC [ volts per cell ] hydrogen gas is then vented 4 percent per volume is explosive, it is lighter than air and will escape to the hightest point it can find.

 

Exactly, even though it may fit, if it does not have the connection for the vent tube to vent the gasses outside, it is NOT the correct battery for the HHR. Since the battery is inside the passenger compartment, it should vent outside the vehicle.

 

X 5, GM did NOT add a "vent to outside" for looks..

 

You mean I've been pointing out my "Vent Tube" at the Cruise In's for nothing, dang.

Have you noticed that we're seeing a trend lately with some posts like, "the guys at NTB said", or "NTB said it would fit", or "I've only got 30,000 miles on my HHR but the people at NTB said my struts are leaking and if I don't have them changed the truck will explode and the Mayan's will come back and get us all".

Here in the Carolina's, NTB has a well deserved reputation for doing less than wonderful work, which means I'd take anything they say or do with a grain of salt....and I'd get a second opinion or go someplace with competent people behind the counter.

Seriously Velocity, take the battery back, get your money back, and head to your dealer or a good auto parts store like Advance, Autozone, NAPA, etc. You need to put the proper battery in, or you're just asking for trouble.