Computer batteries (nicad) have about a five year lifespan.

Just like automobile batteries they need to be replaced. Also like automobile batteries they tend to "go bad" during colder weather (chemical reations - like the one in batteries - slow down in the cold.)

If it IS the battery, your repair is about 5.00 US and a hot cooked meal for the geek down the street.

It ALWAYS helps if you can specify MAKE, MODEL, OPERATING SYSTEM.

There is a standard "beep code" for your motherboard....ie. "three short beeps" or "two short one long beep" AMI and Phoenix and IBM all have similar...but different codes.

IBM Beginners GuidePC/IBM

Beep Codes BIOS beep codes chart

Long Chart Beep Codes Faster Chart BIOS Beeps

Keep your machine on 24/7 during cold weather, it will cost about 15 cents a day.

Sincerely,
Gargoyle