Boat Battery Maintenance
By simply performing basic boat battery maintenance, you can ensure better performance and a longer operational lifespan. Of course, there’s always a chance that you’ll accidentally cause your boat’s battery more harm than good if you don’t know what you’re doing. That’s why the experts at West Hawk Marine have created this guide to boat battery maintenance.
Install The Correct Boat Battery
Whether you use a deep-cycle, crank-start, or dual-purpose boat battery, you need to make sure that whichever battery you install is compatible with your boat model. If you’re having trouble figuring out what kind of battery to use, talk to a boat expert. We also recommend recording the date on which you install your boat’s battery to make it easier to determine its age.
Clean Your Boat Battery
Corrosion will slowly build up on your boat’s battery, causing reduced performance and eventual damage. Luckily, you can clean the posts using a solution created by mixing baking soda with water. Once the battery’s posts are clean and have dried, lightly grease the posts using dielectric grease.
Recharge The Battery Often
Most batteries perform better and last longer if they are kept well charged, and boat batteries are not an exception. Unfortunately, you cannot rely on a boat battery’s alternator to keep it charged. That’s why you should recharge your boat’s battery after every voyage unless the advice in your owner’s manual states otherwise. The owner’s manual will give you a rundown of the optimal charging schedule and recommend the best charger to use on your specific battery.
Store The Boat Battery Correctly
A boat battery that is not properly stored may come out of storage not working as well or being completely dead. That’s why it’s so important to remove your battery from your boat and fully charge it before storing it. It’s also a good idea to clean the battery as well. Be sure to use a dry, temperature-controlled storage location. Finally, be sure to recharge your battery at least once a month while it is in storage.
For more on boat battery maintenance or to shop our inventory of boats, visit West Hawk Marine in West Hawk Lake, Manitoba. We are proud to serve communities like White Shell and Winnipeg, Manitoba. We also offer financing, test rides, parts ordering, servicing, and rentals.