There are many things that can degrade your marine battery over its lifetime. Knowing what to watch out for will ensure your battery lasts as long as possible.
Marine batteries are essential for boaters due to their rugged design and flexibility that allows them to withstand choppy waters. With additional casing, long discharge times, and higher capacity ratings, marine batteries provide a power source that won’t short-circuit due to moisture, making them incredibly reliable while out on the water.
Most boat batteries should last a few years, even in the harshest conditions. Despite their advantages, they require ongoing maintenance for the best performance. Use these tips for making your marine battery last longer to ensure you aren’t left with an unresponsive motor.
Keep It Charged
Storing a marine battery when it isn’t fully charged can cause it to degrade over time. Undercharged batteries undergo a sulfation process in which crystals build up on the battery’s plates, eventually leading to failure.
Consider connecting a maintenance charger to your battery after every use to avoid sulfation damage. Remember to pay close attention to the voltage requirements so that you don’t overload the battery’s capacity.
Perform Regular Maintenance
Keeping your marine battery clean through routine maintenance prevents degradation. Check the battery’s fluid level, fill it up if necessary, and watch out for dirt and corrosion.
Use water and baking soda to clean your marine battery if it’s corroded. Simply mix the two together and apply the paste to your terminals. Then, let it sit for a little while as it eats away at the material. You should then be able to remove any remaining buildup with a towel or brush.
Avoid Extreme Temperatures
Marine batteries can overheat if they’re charged at too high of temperatures. Anything much more than 100 degrees Fahrenheit could cause the battery to overheat, leading to long-term damage. Disposing of your marine battery can be complicated, so it’s best to make sure you charge it in a cool location.
Marine batteries can also lose capacity if stored in extremely hot or cold weather. A happy medium is to store your battery in an environment that’s around 60 degrees Fahrenheit, which should allow your battery to maintain its charge without damage.
Use Your Marine Battery to the Fullest
You have many things to worry about when caring for your boat—your battery shouldn’t be one of them. Boat owners who want to make their marine batteries last longer should take the time to ensure they’re charged, regularly maintained, and kept out of the weather when not in use.
With these best practices in mind, you’ll get the most out of your marine battery over its lifetime.
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