Battery maintainer

[Clutch Cargo]

My kids have been nice enough to purchase me two new boat batteries for my birthday. The ones that came with the vessel were old and would not hold more than an 80% charge. The new ones are 12v FLA Group 27s. One starting and one deep cycle.

Having new batteries also means upping my game in terms of charging/maintaining. I have stored them in my basement on blocks of wood in the winter and simply used an old-school Schumacher charger each spring. I would like to purchase a new charger/maintainer and see that Schumacher does make one. Any thoughts on this one and also, best practices for winter maintenance will be appreciated.

 

[Don S/V ILLusion]

Batteries self-discharge much faster when warm than cold. Just make sure they are fully charged at the end of your season and don’t worry. Having said that, a stagged type charge maintenance charger won’t hurt anything.

maybe someone will chime in with their favorite type.

 

[Rick Webb]

I use a $35 Battery Tender brand maintainer on my lawn mower and Mustang I don't drive often. Batteries are lasting much longer with them plugged in while not being used. I noticed after I bought mine Jay Leno has them hooked up on all his cars. Thought that is a pretty good endorsement with all his car batteries to keep up.

 

[Clutch Cargo]

Thanks very much. Appreciate the Insight. I have found a 2-bank Schumacher brand and am considering that as well.

 

[Stu Jackson]

I would like to purchase a new charger/maintainer and see that Schumacher does make one.

There have been many discussions about these chargers over the years. O encourage you to do an advanced search on Schumacher by Maine Sail and read many more of his comments.

Battery Charger

In the middle of upgrading my 88-26D to two battries and was wondering about an onboard battery charger. Any suggestions? I definitely want one that will condition the batteries, also.

forums.sailboatowners.com

 

[Stu Jackson]

Here's a more recent one:

Portable charger options

I’ve read the articles about using automotive chargers on a sailboat, and understand why they are not a good choice. But I’m trying to figure out a solution for the boat I race on, which has no AC wiring. Are there any portable chargers that would be good for this application? Fairly simple DC...

forums.sailboatowners.com