Batteries

[Bill C320 Papillon]

I will be replacing my two batteries next spring. I have a Perkins diesel in my OC281. I thought that I read somewhere that it was best to get matching batteries at the same time so that one is not stealing from the other. I also thought different batteries were best used for different purposes (starting battery with cold cranking power and house batteries for long slow drain. I usually have the batteries switched together when the engine is running or the shore power trickle charger is hooked up to keep them both charged and seperated at anchor or night sailing. If I have different types of batteries switched together will that effect the performance or longevity of either?

 

[Trevor - SailboatOwners.com]

battery types

Hi Bill -It's usually best to maintain the same type and age batteries in a given bank in order to prevent equalizing, as you mentioned. My suggestion is to keep one battery as a start (can be smaller) and group new batteries (deep cycle) of the same type into the house bank for longer drain periods when at anchor etc. A great resource for you to study is Nigel Calder's Mechanical and Electrical book (3rd edition just released - see Related link).Best,Trevor