There were more than 5,000 boating accidents in the United States in 2020. While these incidents occurred for a myriad of reasons, on many occasions were the result of a mechanical issue.
Practicing proper boat maintenance is an excellent way to ensure your vessel is safe for the water and ready for adventure. One of the most basic ways of doing this is by buying and preserving the best marine battery for your boating needs.
If you own a boat or are thinking of purchasing one, it’s essential to understand the many different types of marine batteries. Please keep reading for everything you need to know.
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Types of Marine Batteries
The batteries needed on a boat are designed to handle two primary tasks: starting an engine and running electrical necessities for long periods.
To choose the correct battery for your vessel, you’ll first need to determine what the battery is used for. Then, once you understand the battery’s application, you’ll need to decide which battery chemistry will work best for your specific boating needs.
Battery Applications
There are three main applications when deciding which marine battery will best suit your needs. These include starting batteries, deep cycle batteries, and dual-purpose batteries.
No matter which battery you need, it’s recommended to purchase a charger, such as the 3 bank battery charger, to avoid being stranded with an engine that won’t start.
Starting Batteries
Starting batteries, which boost the starter of your boat’s engine, are the runners of your electrical system. They deliver a jolt to your mechanical system and then recharge quickly by your engine’s alternator.
Deep Cycle Batteries
Deep cycle batteries are the marathon runners of your boat’s battery storage system. They power the electricity on your boat when no other charge source is available.
Deep cycle batteries are essential to your boating needs and act as a savings account in which energy is either collected or withdrawn.
Dual-Purpose Batteries
Dual-purpose batteries store less energy than deep cycle batteries and are recommended for smaller applications.
Some examples of where you would use a dual-purpose battery include:
- Small powerboats using a single battery
- Sailboats with two batteries used interchangeably
- Vessels with one battery bank that works for both house applications and for starting the engine
Decide which batteries best meet your needs to ensure the practice of proper boating safety on and off the water.
Battery Chemistry
When purchasing marine batteries, you’ll also need to pay attention to the chemical type of the battery.
There are four chemical types of marine batteries for the different battery applications. These types include:
- Flooded
- Gel
- Absorbed Glass Mat
- Lithium
The type of battery chemistry you choose depends on the battery’s capacity, lifespan, the amount of money you’re able to spend, and whether or not it’s used for a deep cycle or starting application.
The Best Boat Battery for Smart Boating
It’s essential to practice proper safety and boat maintenance before going out on the water. A critical element is understanding the many types of marine batteries and determining which best suits your needs.
Do your research and never hesitate to ask a professional for help.
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