It is essential to charge your trolling motor battery regularly in order to ensure that it works properly and maintains its capacity for a long time. Regular charging also helps reduce the risk of overcharging or undercharging, which can cause permanent damage to the battery.
Moreover, regular charging helps increase your trolling motor’s power and efficiency. Therefore, it is important to learn how to charge a trolling motor battery properly.
What is a Trolling Motor?
A trolling motor is a small electric motor used for aquatic vessels such as boats and kayaks. It can be mounted on the bow, stern, or sides of the boat to provide a steady source of propulsion. Trolling motors are powered by rechargeable deep-cycle batteries that last anywhere from 12-24 hours when fully charged.
How Long Do Trolling Motor Batteries Last?
Trolling motor batteries are designed to provide reliable power to your electric trolling motor, but like any other battery they don’t last forever. The lifespan of a trolling motor battery will vary based on factors such as the type and size of battery; how often it has been used and recharged; and the total number of charging cycles.
Generally, trolling motor batteries will last for several years before needing to be replaced if they have been properly maintained and cared for. Some batteries are able to power a trolling motor for up to 12 hours on a single charge depending on usage and can be recharged hundreds of times before becoming less efficient.
Taking regular care of your trolling motor’s batteries and ensuring that they are fully charged when not in use will extend their life span significantly.
Trolling Motor Battery Types
The most common type of battery used in a trolling motor is the deep cycle battery. This battery is designed to be discharged and recharged multiple times, making it perfect for extended periods of usage. The key to keeping your deep cycle battery in good condition is to give it regular charging cycles. Other types of batteries such as AGM, Gel Cell, and Lithium-Ion can also be used but are not as common due to their higher cost.
Types Of Chargers
When it comes to charging your trolling motor battery, you have two main options: on-board chargers and portable chargers. On-board chargers are typically installed directly onto the boat and require a power outlet in order to work. Portable chargers are smaller, more lightweight units that can be used anywhere. They are powered by either a 12V power outlet or solar energy.
What Do You Need To Start Charging?
Before you start charging your trolling motor battery, make sure you have all of the necessary items that you will need. This includes a deep cycle battery and charger as well as a power outlet to plug the charger into. This power outlet will provide the necessary power for your battery charger.
How To Charge Different Types Of Trolling Motor Deep Cycle Batteries
Charging your deep cycle battery will depend on what type of charger you’re using.
On-Board Chargers
On-board chargers are typically used in boats and require a power outlet to work. The charger should be connected directly to the battery terminals and then plugged into an AC outlet. Once it is plugged in, the charger will automatically begin charging your battery at the specified rate for how long it needs to be fully charged again.
Portable Chargers
Portable chargers are small, compact units that can be used anywhere there is a 12V power outlet. The charger should also be connected directly to the battery terminals before being plugged in. Then, the charger will start charging your battery at its specified rate until it is fully charged again. Portable chargers are also capable of being powered by solar energy, making them a great option for those who don’t have access to an AC outlet.
Solar Chargers
Solar chargers are the most eco-friendly and cost-effective way to charge your trolling motor battery. They utilize solar panels that capture sunlight and convert it into electricity, which is then used to charge your battery. Solar chargers are great for those who don’t have access to a power outlet or want to save money on their energy bills.
Conclusion
We hope this guide has helped you understand how to properly charge a trolling motor battery. With the right charger, you can make sure that your trolling motor is always running smoothly and efficiently.