Boaters know the importance of marine batteries Malta. They provide energy for starting the engine and powering various systems like pumps, lights and more – essential elements in boating life.
When selecting a marine battery, there are various types to choose from with differing chemistry and construction techniques. It’s essential that you select the right type for your boat.
Cost
Batteries are one of the largest and costliest components in a marine electrical system, so it’s essential to select the correct type for your boat.
When shopping for a marine battery, you have several options to choose from – flooded lead acid (FLA), gel, AGM (Absorbed Glass Matt) and lithium. Each option has its own distinct cost and features.
FLA batteries are the classic choice and consist of lead plates and distilled water with sulfuric acid. To maintain them properly, maintenance includes checking and refilling the electrolyte.
An alternative option is a sealed marine battery, which doesn’t need any hands-on upkeep and is also spill proof.
Lithium batteries, though more costly than FLA or gel batteries, offer a long lifespan and increased efficiency. Furthermore, they’re lighter and simpler to maintain than their lead-acid counterparts.
Lifespan
Batteries come in many types and sizes, but their lifespan depends on how well you care for them. Even two identical batteries can have vastly different lifespans, so make sure that you purchase the correct size for your boat’s requirements.
However, you can extend the life of your marine battery by taking steps to keep it dry and protected from extreme temperatures. Store it safely in an area away from sunlight and moisture for optimal performance.
Second, avoid over draining and discharging your battery beyond its capacity. This is the leading cause of battery malfunctioning.
Third, never leave your battery uncharged. Doing so could cause it to sulfate over time and potentially destroy its capacity.
There are a few ways to help your battery last longer, but the most effective method is following these tips. Doing so will maximize the performance of your marine battery and save you from having to purchase new batteries every few years!
Maintenance
Battery management is essential for any boat operator. They start engines and supply power to onboard components.
Marine batteries can only function optimally if they are regularly maintained and charged correctly. Battery upkeep includes routine inspection, cleaning, testing, and charging to ensure optimal performance.
The initial step in battery maintenance is to check the electrolyte level on each cell. For most batteries, this can be done visually.
If the electrolyte level is low, add distilled water slowly but be sure not to overfill.
Next, inspect each clamp and terminal post for signs of oxidization or corrosion. Failure to do so could prevent your battery from connecting to an engine or charger.
If corrosion is evident, disconnect the battery and use a wire brush to clean its terminals and posts. Next, apply a thin layer of petroleum jelly before reconnecting them – this will prevent further corrosion from taking hold.
Safety
No matter if you’re an experienced boat owner or just starting out, making sure the right marine battery for your needs is essential. An inadequate battery could result in long-term damage to your vessel and even pose a fire hazard.
Use a digital millimeter to check your batteries’ charge. Doing so helps you avoid overcharging or undercharging, which will reduce the lifespan of your battery.
Another essential safety measure is to only store the battery when fully charged. Doing this will prevent it from becoming flat and potentially resulting in further harm to the motor of your vessel.
Conclusion
Batteries can leach corrosive acid or other hazardous chemicals, so it’s always advisable to wear chemical splash goggles when handling them. Chemical splash goggles provide protection for the eyes, skin and respiratory system should these hazardous materials come into contact with them.