How to Recharge a Boat's Battery
Like most motor vehicles, boats are usually equipped with a 12-volt battery used to power the running lights and other accessories. For this example, we'll assume you accidentally left your boat's running lights turned on and have run the battery power so that it no longer has a sufficient charge. We'll also assume that your boat is parked in your driveway, miles away from the water. How do you get the battery recharged when you can't use the engine alternator to do it?
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Things You'll Need
- Battery charger designed to recharge 12-volt marine batteries.
- A pair of pliers (optional)
Instructions
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1
Loosen the wing nuts holding the battery cables. If they don't loosen easily, use the pliers to loosen them.
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2
Remove the battery and place it on a bench or table in a dry and well-ventilated area. Depending on the type such as Group 24 or Group 27, marine batteries can weigh almost 70 pounds. Exercise care when lifting and moving it so that you do not drop and possibly damage it.
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3
According the operators guide for the charger brand and model you are using, connect the unit to the positive and negative terminal posts on the battery.
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4
Turn on the charging unit.
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5
Monitor the status of the charging cycle on the charger's display panel. This will indicate when the battery is fully charged.
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6
Turn off the charger and disconnect it from the battery. Then reinstall the battery on your boat.
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Tips & Warnings
Depending on how low the power level in the battery has fallen, recharging could take as long as 72 hours. Never attempt to recharge a battery while it is in a battery box or closed container. Dangerous hydrogen gas produced during the charging cycle could explode. Always recharge your battery in a dry, well-ventilated area.
