On-Board Battery Chargers

[LazyCruiser]

good morning!

Today's question is about the battery charger built into my boat.
I have 2 batteries, a battery selector switch, and of course a battery charger built in. Since my boat is now 15 y/o I was wondering if it makes sense to take advantage of the improvements in battery chargers (battery minders, or smart chargers etc)

I use the boat for overnights & weekends and not always with a lot of engine running time to charge the batteries. And I'm paranoid about running my batteries down and being unable to start. Being alone, that's a little bit scary to me.

So, have you folks been switching your chargers for newer technology types?

As always, thank you for all of your helpful replies.
Sarah

 

['96 Charger]

Re: On-Board Battery Chargers

I prefer a smart charger and almost always charge them on 2 amp trickle. I feel they get a better charge this way and it's not nearly as hard on the battery as going full tilt on them like an onboard charger would. I have the smart charger Walmart sells and it's a great unit. One of my friends deepcycles is literally 10 years old and still holds a charge fine. It's one of the yellow Neverstart MAXX batteries Walmart sells and has always been tricklecharged. Since you're concerned about running the batteries down and not being able to start up how about keeping a spare on board and charging it every few weeks?

 

[LazyCruiser]

Re: On-Board Battery Chargers

Since you're concerned about running the batteries down and not being able to start up how about keeping a spare on board and charging it every few weeks?

That's not a bad idea. I was also wondering if I can connect 2 batteries together - in parallel- and keep them both charged & at the ready? I do have room for a third battery

 

[Silvertip]

Re: On-Board Battery Chargers

Without a dual battery switch, paralleling batteries can certainly be done and both charged from a single output charger however it is not recommended. if you have a dual battery switch, then set the switch to BOTH and both will charge just as they woulld from the engine. The charger must be connected to the COM terminal on the switch however. The better solution is to use a two output charger with each output connected directly to each battery.

As for charging "rate" -- batteries can be charged at up to 20% of their AHr capacity (100 AHr battery therefore can be charged at a 20 amp rate). 2 amps is a maintenance charge. Batteries need to be topped off as quickly as they do not like to be left in a discharged state for long periods.

 

[Fireman431]

Re: On-Board Battery Chargers

Since you're concerned about running the batteries down and not being able to start up how about keeping a spare on board and charging it every few weeks?

No need to do that. They're heavy and would require you to remove cables and the old battery to hook up the new one.

Get a "Jump box". Charge it one a month with a standard extension cord. It's much lighter and is portable. Much easier and less obtrusive than a spare battery. Cheaper, too. Get one with approximately 900 CCA. Runs anywhere from $50-$90. Some are even available with small air compressors built in.

 

[Haffiman]

Re: On-Board Battery Chargers

When not using my boat, Jeanneau SO37, I have a 30W solar connected.
Keeps my 4 60Ah batteries running.
Have tried multiple different charger types, and the best I have had, and still have is this:

100% waterproof!
Not sure if it is available in your country!