Storing Batteries Onboard

BigTerp · Jul 8, 2013

Just got to thinking about keeping my batteries on my boat 24/7, and am wondering what most do. I have a group 27 dual purpose Exxide that'll be used for motor cranking and running all my accessories. Also have a group 27 EverStart Maxx deep cycle that will be dedicated to the trolling motor. My boat will be getting use year round. In the fall/winter for waterfowl hunting and in the spring/summer for fishing. I have a NOCO Gen 2 on board charger. Is it ok to just leave the batteries connected to my smart charger and in my boat all the time? Wouldn't make much sense to have an on board charger and have to take the batteries out for storage. I may hunt 2-3 days in a row, and then not have the chance to get back out for another 1-2 weeks. This could be in the middle of January with constant temperatures 20 degrees and below. I'm guessing a good smart charger would keep the batteries safe?

muskiemike12 · Jul 8, 2013

In the land of ice and snow, where the temperature is often 20 below. You need to have an onboard charger to save your batteries if you don't take them out of your boat. Nov. - March I would plug in my charger one day a week to keep my batteries topped off.

gillhunter · Jul 8, 2013

I have never taken the batteries out of my boats, except if they needed to be replaced. I plug my smart charger in 24/7 whenever the boat isn't on the water. I kept boats in an unheated garage when I lived in Northern Indiana, and it would get pretty cold in the winter up there, just kept them plugged in.

BigTerp · Jul 9, 2013

Thanks for the replies. I particularly liked muskiemikes nursery rhyme =D>

I figured as much, but for some reason was second guessing myself. I'll plan on keeping them plugged into shore power through my NOCO when not on the water. Now, if I can only find the time to get my boat done so I can get back on the water.........