Prepare Your Boat Battery for Spring

When most people think of boats, they just imagine themselves sailing freely over the open water, the wind in their hair, inhaling the sweet scent of the seas. They don’t think about all the hard work it takes to get that boat seaworthy. Part of the labor of love involved in preparing the boat for the water involves ensuring the battery will last out on a trip and not leave everyone stranded.

If you’re in need of help with marine batteries in Houston, TX, check out the following tips for readying your boat’s battery for the next boating season:

• Cleaning: As with all technologies, one key component of care is basic cleaning. Many batteries have parts that will corrode over time, especially in difficult circumstances like a wet environment. You’ll want to brush off any type of dirt or rust using a small wire brush with a baking soda paste. Because this step can leave toxic remains behind, you’ll want to do the work in an area that you can clean easily.
• Filling: This step is only applicable to lead-acid batteries, but it’s an important one! You’ll need to fill your batteries so that all the plates are completely covered with liquid, usually distilled water. You need to be careful, making sure to cover plates but not overfill batteries. You should also clean up any spills to protect yourself.
• Charging: Once you’ve cleaned and filled the batteries, run your marine batteries through a full cycle of a proper charge. It’s often useful to do this overnight, and then once the cycle is done you can check on the voltage with a voltmeter. Most batteries will need to hold at least 12.4 volts, and if you charge it a few times without this result, it’s an indication you need a new battery. In general, it’s good practice that you charge your batteries once per month, even in the offseason.
• Installing: For installation, make sure to secure the battery with straps or a bracket so it does not move. You’ll want to cover the positive terminal, and buying a cheap “boot” to prevent any problems is a great option. Another good tip is to coat the battery posts with a substance like petroleum jelly to guard against corrosion.
• Testing: Now that you’re almost done, make sure to use your voltmeter to test the battery in the boat while it’s in the water and running. If it reaches 9.6 volts at the engine’s turnover and then stays at 12.4 volts, it should be good to go.

If you’re readying your boat battery in Houston, TX, you might need more help with the process, or you might need to buy a whole new battery to replace your existing one. Texford Battery Co. is a premium battery supplier in Houston, TX, and is ready to help you with any of your battery needs.

On top of supplying batteries, Texford Battery Co. can also provide battery repairs. Our team of workers has been around for over 80 years and can help with whatever you need. Call today for more information!

Categorised in: Battery Supplier, Marine Batteries

This post was written by Writer