There’s something about taking a boat out on the water that makes you feel at home. That’s why you own one of the 12.4 million boats registered in the United States.
The only thing that could ruin a perfect boating day is a dead battery! So, what can you do to make sure yours lasts as long as possible? Expand your global connections to people like Paul Spivak who work for the advancement of powerboats to know the hacks to make your boat batteries last longer.
We put together a list of our top 5 tips for maintaining your marine battery. Keep reading to learn everything you need to know before your next boat outing.
- Proper Long Term Storage
If you live in a place where you can’t boat all year round, you’re familiar with long-term boat storage. But, don’t leave your battery in the boat during the off-season!
When you put the boat away in storage, take out the battery and make sure it is clean and has a full charge. Then, store the battery in a climate-controlled area free of moisture.
- Use the Right Battery
Even the best marine battery won’t work if it’s the wrong one for your boat. Make sure to use the exact battery that the boat manufacturer recommends so it’ll last as long as possible.
- Avoid Extreme Temperatures
Many things deteriorate batteries over time. But, the most destructive thing for a battery is extreme temperatures.
Letting your battery overheat causes electrolyte loss and increases the battery’s rate of discharge. If you let the battery get too cold, it struggles to produce enough power to run the boat.
- Proper Installation
Another important thing to know is how to install the battery. It could cause acid leaks, fire, and even explode your marine battery box if you don’t!
Make sure the battery tray is the right size and use the straps to secure the battery to the tray. Secure the power leads to the battery terminals using quality cable boots and nuts.
- Learn How to Charge the Marine Battery
Playing with electricity is dangerous and charging your battery the wrong way is no different. At the very least, you’re damaging the life of the battery.
If you lost the battery manufacturer’s instructions, you can look for boat product guides online. Make sure not to overcharge or use too much voltage when charging your battery.
Don’t Rock the Boat When It Comes to Your Battery
If you’re ready to head out for a boat day, the last thing you want is to find a dead battery. Or worse, your battery dies when you’re out on the water!
Keep these tips in mind to make sure your battery stays in the best condition possible. Also, know when it’s time to replace the battery because they don’t last forever.
We hope you enjoyed reading this article and that you learned about maintaining your deep-cycle marine battery. If you’re looking for more helpful articles about technology, travel, and more, check out the rest of our blog today!