Do You Think It Will Explode?

[anon1]

Hello,

I've got a Baja with the typical Mercruiser setup under the sundeck. Two batteries mounted under there, one on each side. I just installed a two-bank onboard battery charger system that charges/conditions/blahblahblah.

The boat is kept outside with a fitted cover and then a tarp over that.

What do you think the likelyhood is for problems if the charger is used while the engine compartment is closed and the covers are on the boat? (and the batteries are, of course, properly filled/etc/etc)

 

[tashasdaddy]

Re: Do You Think It Will Explode?

personally for winter storage i prefer to remove batteries, and use a maintainer on them. assuming the boat is trailered.

 

[anon1]

Re: Do You Think It Will Explode?

Hi,

This isn't for winter storage. I will be using the boat every few weeks this 'winter'. The charger thingy is a maintainer as well.

I'm curious about just how much hydrogen gas is actually released when charging two batteries.

Maybe a poll: Would you "take the risk" as it is described above?

 

[Silvertip]

Re: Do You Think It Will Explode?

If there is any ventilation in the compartment at all it will not be a problem. If you can raise the engine cover a bit to allow more air circulation that would certainly help. To give you an idea how much of a non-issue this is, my pontoon is in my garage stored for the winter and the on-board chargers are in operation and will be until spring. The boat is also covered. Both batteries are in closed compartments but the covers are opened a bit.. If this really bothers you, buy a weather resistant timer and plug the charger into that. Set the timer for one hour per day. I do that with the batteries for my Radio Controlled Airplanes and the battery in my flight box.

 

[BaileysBoat]

Re: Do You Think It Will Explode?

I wouldn't worry about it. I'd be more concerned about some air flow to protect against mildew.
Some cars bury the battery under the back seat or in the trunk.

 

[drewpster]

Re: Do You Think It Will Explode?

Hydrogen gas build up is not a problem by itself. Hydrogen gas build up with an ignition source is. Get enough gas in the presence of a spark or flame and KABOOM! or at least a big pow! Either way I would take steps to limit any possible source of ignition as well as venting.

"Never think in terms of what can't happen, things can often fool you."

or in this case things that have happened before.