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Battery Sales and Service Articles
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Care and Maintenance of Marine Batteries
Many boaters do not even think about the battery
inside their jet ski or boat, until the engine fails
to turn over. By understanding the marine battery
and the maintenance required, the avid boater can
keep their boat running, while extending the
lifespan of the battery.
The Absorbent Glass Mat (AGM) battery leads the way
in marine batteries by using the latest advances in
deep cycle battery technology, incorporating both
safety and durability. The electrolyte solution is
stored using fiberglass separators, which make the
battery spill proof. They are resistant to damage
that can be caused by either vibration or impact and
can be stored in even the most inaccessible parts of
the boat. They do not need to be refilled and are
completely sealed.
Charging and discharging are important with a deep
cycle marine battery, as the battery will not reach
maximum storage capacity until numerous
charge/discharge cycles have been completed. A
quality multiple stage charger with 8 amps minimum
and 16 amps maximum is recommended. A charger with
'float mode' can help keep marine batteries charged
for longer periods of time when not in use.
Generally, 20-50 charge/discharge cycles are needed
before maximum storage capacity can be attained. A
new battery should be broken in gradually and not
completely depleted. By disregarding this, a
battery's lifespan can be reduced by months or even
years.
An overlooked, but necessary, maintenance technique
is cleaning the battery. Residue can build up on the
top of the battery causing discharge. Annually, a
wire brush should be used to free the residue and
the terminals should be coated lightly with grease.
While this procedure is taking place, it is also
important to do a visual inspection of the battery
to make sure the battery has not been struck by an
object or dropped.
'Equalizing' is a process that is accomplished by
keeping a low current charge after a normal cycle
has been completed for an extended period of time.
This keeps cells in balance to perform equally
during use and should be performed weekly during
heavy boating seasons. The battery should also be
brought to a full charge at least once every three
weeks.
With proper care and maintenance, a deep cycle
battery can provide the avid boater dependable
service. U.S. Battery ranks as a leading
manufacturer of marine batteries.
James 'Scooter' Anderson, President
Battery Sales and Service
www.batterysalesandservice.com |
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