Hi, Just replaced my old batteries with 3 new Kirkland (Costco) 12v 119 amp (Group 27 size) deep cycle. You gotta love Costco for price but instructions lack ($59 something each). So my question... do I need to charge them before the first use? If so, any idea how long? Thanks for the help in advance. S
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I would.
Sandy: You always need to keep batteries charged to their peak for long life. The more discharges they go through the shorter their life. Don't you leave your batteries on the charger all the time?
Sandy: You always need to keep batteries charged to their peak for long life. The more discharges they go through the shorter their life. Don't you leave your batteries on the charger all the time?
Charge, keep charged, discharge
It is best to completely charge a deep cycle battery before installing it in your boat. If you have a good automatic charger you can rely on that after installation. As Steve said, a deep cycle battery should be kept charged when possible. Of course, you will have some discharge when using your 12v system when not charging with either the shore power charger or alternator. At that time, if possible, it is best to keep from discharging the batteries below 80% and/or keeping them discharged at lower levels for extended periods of time. Throw into this mix that it IS good to discharge the battery occasionally to 80% if you are constantly charging them and keeping them peaked. This has something to do with the health of the battery and it's "memory". There is tons of info (and conflicting opinions) on the net, but this summarizes it. Chris
It is best to completely charge a deep cycle battery before installing it in your boat. If you have a good automatic charger you can rely on that after installation. As Steve said, a deep cycle battery should be kept charged when possible. Of course, you will have some discharge when using your 12v system when not charging with either the shore power charger or alternator. At that time, if possible, it is best to keep from discharging the batteries below 80% and/or keeping them discharged at lower levels for extended periods of time. Throw into this mix that it IS good to discharge the battery occasionally to 80% if you are constantly charging them and keeping them peaked. This has something to do with the health of the battery and it's "memory". There is tons of info (and conflicting opinions) on the net, but this summarizes it. Chris
Good Place to Buy Batteries...
I bought mine there as well, the 120 ah dual purpose battery. Gotta love it. That battery may have been on the shelf for a month or two, so you will want to top it off, and keep it topped off with a quality three stage charger. Best of Luck Rob
I bought mine there as well, the 120 ah dual purpose battery. Gotta love it. That battery may have been on the shelf for a month or two, so you will want to top it off, and keep it topped off with a quality three stage charger. Best of Luck Rob
I did not see any replies for this so here is what I think and have experienced. Slow long charge for first charge, 1 or 2 amps for 24 hours before usage or 10 amp charge. Charging is logarithmic and charges for a long time after 90%. Bruce P
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