Top 6 Signs You Need a New Marine Battery
No battery lasts forever, and marine batteries are certainly no exception to this. The issue with a bad marine battery, however, is that if it goes bad, you could find yourself stranded miles out in the middle of a large body of water. That's the last situation you want to be in.As such, you need to be cognizant of signs that your battery is nearing its end. Wondering what these signs are? Here are the top 7 signs that you need a new marine battery.
1. The Battery Loses Voltage Rapidly After Being Recharged
You need to make sure that your battery has plenty of charge. If you take your boat out at least once a week, it should stay charged as a matter of course. However, if you miss a week, you're strongly advised to charge your battery with a charger.Now, when you do this, you shouldn't just assume all is well. You should use a multimeter to ensure that the charge held overnight. If voltage drops dramatically overnight, it's a sign that the battery is on its last leg.In particular, if the charged boat battery registers at less than 12.4 volts, it's in need of a change. At that point, the battery could die at any time. You certainly don't want it to die while you're out on the water.
2. The Battery Is Starting to Charge Slowly
You've charged your battery more than several times, and, at this point, you have a pretty good ideas as to how long it takes to charge fully. The issue is that it's not charging as quickly as it once did.Is this cause for concern? You bet it is. A slow-charging battery is generally regarded as a battery that's near the end of its usefulness.That said, there are other problems that can lead to this. For instance, your charger itself could be damaged in some way. Or, you might just be doing a poor job of maintaining your battery.Our advice is to have a boat repair technician check out your battery. They'll decide whether anything can be repaired, or whether it's time to replace that batter entirely.
3. The Battery's Terminals Are Corroding
On top of your marine battery are two opposing pieces of metal known as terminals. Over time, these terminals can corrode.This is generally caused by overcharging, hydrogen gas leakage, or electrolyte leakage. Note that over-exposure to baking soda can also result in corroded terminals (baking soda is sometimes used to counteract leaking chemicals).Regardless, the chemicals that seep out of a corroded battery can be dangerous, particularly if you touch them and accidentally put your fingers in your eyes or your mouth. Not to mention, if the battery terminals are corroding, the battery isn't working to the best of its capabilities and could be nearing its end.Therefore, the second you notice this start to happen, you need to think about replacing your battery. At the very least, have it checked out by a boat mechanic. They'll determine the specific issue and facilitate the best course of action.
4. The Battery's Casing Is Cracked
Another sign to look out for is a cracked battery casing. Battery casings cracks for a variety of reasons. Sometimes, they're just met with direct physical trauma; other times, they crack as a result of ultra-tight terminals or expanding chemicals within the battery itself.Regardless, this is a problem that will generally trigger a replacement. See, a cracked battery isn't just an aesthetic issue. It's also at risk of overheating and, in the most severe cases, exploding.In other words, a cracked battery could become a legitimate danger to you. This is why, in the majority of cases, it's wiser to replace the battery than to keep it on board.
5. Unusual Boat Peformance
You've driven your boat time and time again. You know exactly how it operates and can spot even a minor issue any time it arises. Well, rest assured, this minor issue could very well have to do with a bad battery.For instance, if it takes more time than usual for your engine to turn over, there could be something wrong with your battery. Or, if your boat feels sluggish while accelerating, there could be something wrong with your battery.There could even be minor issues with the electronics on your boat. For example, your fish finder could be turning off for seemingly no reason. Again, a bad battery could be the culprit.Regardless, there's something amiss. This is why you need to have your boat inspected by a professional mechanic. They'll find the source of the issue and help you make all of the required repairs and replacements.
6. The Electronics on the Boat Aren't Working
The last sign to look out for is electronics on the boat not working. If the radio isn't starting up, or if the fishfinder isn't firing up, there's a good chance that a dead battery is the culprit.This is why it's wise to test the boat before heading to the water. This way, you don't make a big trip only to be unable to go out on the water.Turn the ignition on your boat each time before you get ready to leave. If those electronics don't turn on, further inspection is necessary.Fortunately, marine batteries are readily available and reasonably priced as well. You can order one online from a marine battery supplier and have it shipped to you within a week.
Looking to Install a New Marine Battery in Asia?
Has your marine battery seen better days? Looking to install a new marine battery? If so, you needn't look any further than RB Battery.We offer a wide variety of marine batteries and ship them all over Asia. Regardless of your needs, we have a battery that will accommodate you.Check out our selection of marine batteries now!