The electrical system of your boat is responsible for many critical functions, from navigation lights to bilge pumps. Keeping this system in good condition is vital to your safety and comfort on the water.
Fortunately, AAA is now offering replacement batteries for boats through a pilot program in Tampa Bay and Charleston. This is a great service for anyone who loves spending time on the water.
Choosing the Right Battery
It is important to have a marine battery that fits the needs of your boat and its electrical systems. There are many different choices, including Flooded Lead-Acid, Absorbed Glass Mat (AGM) and Lithium batteries. Knowing how to choose the correct battery and maintain it will allow you to maximize your time on the water and minimize costly repairs.
When choosing a boat battery services St Petersburg FL, consider the amp hour rating. This relates to how much power the battery can provide over an hour and is a good indicator of what kind of load it can handle. A higher Ah rating means more power, but also comes at a cost.
In addition, it is important to consider how long the battery can stay charged between boating trips. If you spend a lot of time at anchor or on a mooring with the engine not running, a dual purpose marine battery may be best for you. This allows you to run cabin lights and other accessories.
Getting Started
Whether you’re heading out for a leisurely day on the water or a fishing expedition, having a marine battery that you can count on is crucial. It will power everything from your navigation lights to your bilge pumps, and even your electronics package. And, because a dead battery can ruin your entire boating experience, it’s important to keep yours in good condition.
Start by cracking open your owner’s manual and checking the recommended size, ratings, and type of battery for your vessel. Then, choose a deep cycle or dual-purpose battery based on your power needs.
Regardless of the type you choose, make sure it’s fully charged before storing it for the off season. This prevents “deep discharge” that reduces capacity and can lead to the formation of harmful sulfate crystals. It’s also best to store batteries on a regulated charger to maintain their charge and extend their lifespan. Also, regularly check the terminals for corrosion and clean them if needed.
Maintaining Your Battery
Depending on the type of battery you use (wet flooded or AGM) there are different maintenance requirements. For wet flooded batteries it’s best to check the electrolyte levels regularly and top them up as needed with distilled water. Also, make sure to clean and wipe the outside of the battery cases. Always wear gloves when working around marine batteries as the acid inside can cause serious skin burns if splashed.
If you have an AGM battery it’s still a good idea to check the level of electrolyte on a monthly basis and add distilled water if needed, making sure that it covers the plates. Also, be sure to use a charger designed for marine batteries only as car chargers can overcharge your battery and shorten its lifespan.
When storing the battery for long periods it’s a good idea to disconnect it and keep it in a cool, dry place. Storing a battery incorrectly can lead to damage and shorten its life span significantly.
Getting Help
Whether you’re out for a leisurely day on the water or planning an extended fishing expedition, a reliable marine battery can make all the difference. Choosing the right battery type, ensuring proper maintenance, and considering your power requirements are all crucial factors for a safe and enjoyable boating experience. By taking these steps, you’ll be able to enjoy all that St. Petersburg, FL has to offer on the water without the worry of a dead battery.
If you need help with your battery, contact Marine Service for a wide range of professional marine boat battery services St Petersburg FL. They are also veteran-friendly and provide a 10% discount on all their services. Their experienced technicians can handle a variety of issues and get you back on the water as soon as possible.
