Marine Battery Sizes: Everything You Need to Know Before You Buy
The marine industry in the Asia Pacific is booming! In the Republic of Korea, the number of newly registered boats has doubled, while Malaysia is enhancing its coastline with new berthing docks and marinas. Australia, with over 850,000 registered boats and more than 40,000 storage spaces, is also seeing a surge in demand for marine batteries.
Every boat needs a battery, and there's a wide variety of marine battery sizes available. Knowing the right size is crucial to ensure your new battery fits your boat and powers everything you need.
Marine Battery Sizes by Group
Before shopping for a battery, understand your boat's electrical requirements. You need to know the power needed to start the engine and run the boat's electrical components.
The Battery Council International (BCI) maintains an international chart defining battery size groups. This chart is essential because your battery must produce enough power and fit in your boat's designated space.
Here are the most common sizes:
22NF
24M
25
27M
31M
34M
35
65
Each category has specific dimensions (length, width, and height), ensuring you know the exact size of the battery you're buying, regardless of the manufacturer.
Find Your Size
Check your old battery for a spec label with a "BCI" number. This number indicates your battery category size. If you can't find it, check your owner's paperwork or consult a boat mechanic.
Some boaters suggest moving up or down a few categories, but this can be risky. Ensure the battery fits securely in the tray and doesn't interfere with anything around it.
Amp Hours
Higher category numbers mean more amp hours, providing more power throughout the day. You don't want to be stranded because your battery couldn't last.
What About the "M"?
Batteries with an "M" are designed for marine use. While you can use other batteries, marine-specific ones last longer and withstand harsh conditions like saltwater exposure.
The Type of Battery You Buy
Choose a battery designed for your intended use. There are three types:
Starting Power Cells: Provide bursts of power to start the engine and power electronics.
Deep Cycle Power Cells: Offer steady power for longer periods without needing a charge.
Dual Purpose Power Cells: Combine the features of the first two, ideal for smaller boats or sailboats.
Buy Your Marine Battery Today
Now that you understand marine battery sizes, you're ready to buy a new battery. Start by identifying your old battery's category and type, then find a new one that matches your specifications. Contact us to get more information.