In contrast to the automotive type of
batteries that most of us are used to, a deep
cycle battery has some specific and unique maintenance requirements.
Some of them, which must be followed religiously, are –
Charging
Even though these cyclic batteries come
charged from the manufacturers itself and are ready-to-use, they must be fully
charged by you before they are used. A charger must always be carried with them
as they require multiple recharging at various stages unlike the single stage
charging of automotive battery. To reach their maximum storage capacity, these
batteries require numerous charge/discharge cycles. Till it is reached, they
should never be completely depleted. The batteries are designed to be
discharged and charged innumerable times during its service life. They must
always be charged with a quality multiple stage charger and preferably with a built
in "float mode" that can keep the batteries fully charged for longer
periods when not in use. Thus, they also aid in increasing its service life.
Keep the battery clean
A main maintenance technique for
these batteries which is often overlooked is cleaning the residues from its top
surface. If not cleaned regularly, these residues get built up on the top and
facilitate a ‘circuit’ between the positive and the negative terminals. This
may trigger a discharge from the battery. Thus, the top and especially the
positive and negative terminals must be properly cleaned with a wire brush.
It’s a smart tip to coat the ports with a thin layer of grease. This blocks any
oxidation process which may make your battery drop. They must be regularly
inspected visually to ensure that they are not dropped or struck by anything.
When placed in a boat, they must ideally be placed in a battery box which
provides a security to the battery from dirt and even shock movement.
Equalizing
The batteries must be regularly
‘equalized’ by providing a low current charge for extended time even after the
normal charging cycle has completed. This keeps the battery cells balanced and
give out equal performance during use. This must be done at least once a week.
The battery should also reach fully charged condition at least once every three
weeks.
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