Boat Battery Maintenance

Your boat’s battery is a critical component that plays an important role in several important systems. That’s why you should take the time and effort to take care of it. By following the tips in this guide from Atlanta Marine, you can ensure that your boat’s battery continues to function for years to come.

Install The Correct Boat Battery

There are several different types of boat batteries, including deep-cycle, crank-start, and dual-purpose. What’s most important is being sure that your boat’s battery is compatible with your boat itself. Your owner’s manual should contain information about battery compatibility. When installing a new battery, always record the date to make it easier to determine the battery’s age. That way, you’ll have a better idea of when to replace it.

Clean Your Boat Battery

Corrosion can build up on your battery’s posts over time, causing reduced performance and eventually permanent damage. Clean the posts using a mixture of baking soda and water. Once all corrosion has been removed, allow the posts to dry completely and then lightly grease them with dielectric grease.

Recharge The Battery Often

In general, batteries that are kept well-charged will last longer and perform better. Unlike car batteries, boat batteries usually lack a tender to keep them charged when not in use. That’s why we recommend recharging your boat’s battery on a regular basis. As a baseline, recharge after every voyage, though your owner’s manual might have a different recommendation. The manual should also be able to tell you which chargers are most compatible with your boat’s battery. 

Store The Boat Battery Correctly

If you find yourself needing to store your boat’s battery in the long-term, use a cool and dry place. Remember that your battery needs to be kept charged even while in storage. Recharge at least once a month, and occasionally clean off any corrosion that has accumulated.

Shop Bennington® boats at Atlanta Marine. Our dealership in Buford, Georgia offers convenient access to communities like Greensboro, Georgia. We also have servicing, trade-ins, and financing.