If you have a boat that uses marine batteries to start the engine or store power, it is vital to keep the batteries in good shape to ensure they work when needed. Maintenance of your boat batteries is not hard, and if you keep up with the maintenance, the batteries will be more dependable throughout the boating season.
Basic Care
Boat batteries are similar to car batteries in many ways, but they often are more durable and sealed to protect them from water in the harsh marine environment. Because there is more potential for water to get on the battery connections, cleaning and maintaining the connectors is vital.
Taking time to look at the connections to determine their condition is a good starting point. If there is corrosion on the battery posts or the cable ends, cleaning the terminals will improve the connection so the battery will charge properly and more effectively deliver power to the starter on the engine or to lights and electronics on the boat that need power.
Inspect the cables and battery posts for damage while you are cleaning them, and look the case over for any signs of leaks, cracks, or bulging sides that could indicate a problem with the battery. The time you take to maintain the battery could be the difference between getting off the water and having to call for help and have the boat towed in, and it only takes a few minutes to do.
Replacement Batteries
If you discover a problem with your boat batteries during your inspection and maintenance, you may need to replace them. Boat batteries are available through a marine battery supply or boat shop, many auto parts stores, and the local marina. When replacing your boat batteries, get the best ones you can afford and look for batteries with the best warranties.
Often the battery quality changes with the price and the highest quality ones cost more but may last longer in your boat. Talk with the marine battery supply about the best battery for your situation or check with the boat manufacturer to see what they recommend.
Battery Storage
In some parts of the country, pulling the boat out of the water and storing it for the winter is necessary. Winterizing the boat often means draining the fluids and adding antifreeze to the cooling system. Removing your boat batteries is also crucial if the boat is going to sit.
Put the battery in a cool, dry place, and install a battery tender on the battery that will discharge and recharge the battery while it is not in use. The tender helps keep the battery in good shape during the off-season so that it will be ready to use in the spring.
Call a boat shop to purchase boat batteries.