Usually, marine batteries are designed to use it for running boats, RVs, golf carts, etc. The durable construction, as well as the heavier plates designed to stand against the crushing and vibration.
For instance, the types of marine batteries are more costly than the usual automobile batteries. So, any boat owner can suggest you pick out an automobile battery in place of a marine battery, as the automobile batteries are relatively cheap.
But don’t make that silly mistake. As a matter of fact, the marine battery is rather efficient and long-lasting at the same time if you’re comparing it with the so-called automobile battery!
Basic Types of Marine Batteries
Buying batteries for marine boats/vessels is different from buying them for your car or truck. We use various types of electrical equipment in ocean-going boats or ships. The source of almost all of their energy is the battery.
There are different types of marine batteries that need to be taken into account throughout the purchase process. You must have a good idea about the technical and usable trams of the battery to get an excellent performance.
We have found 2 different variants for determining the type of marine battery. One is its technical terms, and the other is its use terms. First, we will describe the differences in its use, and technical is later.
There are three basic types of marine batteries based on efficiency, and usability.
- Marine Starting Batteries
- Marine Deep Cycle Batteries
- Marine Dual-Purpose Batteries
Marine Starting Batteries: this type of batteries provides fast and powerful energy in a temporary period. It's designed to start the engine and be quickly recharged by the engine alternator.
A starter battery is not to be used for trolling motors or powering applications.
Marine Deep Cycle Batteries: Deep bicycle batteries are designed to discharge gradually over a long period of time and withstand several charging and discharging cycles.
A deep cycle battery is a perfect way to get electronic trolling motors and other DC accessories such as audio systems, a wineglass, depth finder, fish locator, and appliances. It should not replace deep cycle batteries for starting batteries.
Marine Dual-Purpose Batteries: It is not possible to use more battery to shrink space in a boat. That's why boat owners are interested in doing more than one thing with one battery.
The dual-purpose marine battery combines the functionality of starting and deep cycle batteries. This is an excellent solution for small boats or to reduce costs.
While they can perform the functions of an initial battery and a deep cycle battery, they are not as efficient as individual batteries.
Type of Marine Batteries Technical Terms:
If you’re a newbie to the universe of marine batteries, then you might be feeling that you are just diving in a ‘BIG’ ocean! Whatever, don’t worry. For your convenience, we have made a quick guide to inform you about the three major types of marine batteries that are highly available in the market. These are as follows:
- Wet cell or Flooded ( Lead Acid) Batteries FLA
- Absorbent Glass Mat (AGM)
- Gel Batteries
Wet Cell or Flooded (Lead Acid) Batteries FLA
It is known as the first rechargeable battery that was developed in 1859 by a French physicist ‘Gaston Plante.’ This battery mostly suits those who are on a tight budget, whereas it is one of the most inexpensive batteries out there. You can found it in most of the warehouse machinery and golf carts.
The downside is, it requires more maintenance than the rest. For such a reason, you need to check them more often to make sure that they are keeping up the water levels.
Even if you are off-season when the boat is shut off, the Lead-Acid batteries will require the charge because it loses up to 7%, although you are not running it.
Also, it is a bit more sensitive to vibration than others. You can even only install it in an upright position, as it consists of liquid sulfuric acid.
Henceforth, Wet Cell or Flooded batteries have some different types, these are:
- Sealed Lead Acid (SLA)
- Liquid Lead Acid Batteries
- Leisure Batteries
- Valve-Regulated Lead Acid (VRLA) Batteries
- Lithium-Ion
Sealed Lead Acid (SLA)
It is also known as the Gel Cell, the most common type of the Lead-Acid battery that consists of Sulfuric acid electrolyte coagulated. So, there is no chance of spills out.
They stand in a sealing position. However, they have got some vents to protect you from accidental gas releasing due to the overcharging issues! It is a bit expensive than regular Lead-Acid batteries. Most of the users pick it for smaller applications, and it is much safe.
Liquid Lead-Acid Batteries: It is almost the same as the regular Lead-Acid batteries. The major bad fit is, it uses the liquid form instead of using the gel.
Leisure Batteries: It is the great power source for the voltage of 12 and called the “heart” of your campervan, caravan, or motorhome’s electrical system. This can provide a steady level of power over a long time. Usually, these are used by the T.V, kettle, lights, and many more similar appliances.
Valve-Regulated Lead Acid (VRLA) Batteries
This battery is a type of rechargeable battery, and it is one of the most reserved power design out there. It is free from maintenance, leak-proof, and arrives with a lot more benefits. This kind of battery is included with a safety vent for protecting you from gas releasing because of the internal pressure.
Lithium-Ion Batteries
The list seems to be incomplete without the lithium-ion (aka LI-ion) battery, whereas it is one of the most common and popular batteries in the marketplace. Not only for marines or boats, but these are also famous for using in laptops, mobile phones, or even iPods.
For the time being, they have gained popularity for their massive charge holding capacity. Yes, it only loses its 5% of charge per month, which is not even a large number!
Besides, they are lighter than typical batteries. As a result, it will be much handy for using it even on boats, RVs, golf carts, and many more places.
It takes a bit more time for recharging, which is the disadvantage. So, there is something you need to wait a little more. Also, you have to spend some extra penny to buy this one, as it is comparatively expensive!
Absorbent Glass Mat (AGM)
It costs a bit more than the Lead Acid type, but it has some significant advantages.
Unlike the Lead Acid, it has no liquid sulfuric acid. So, there is not a single chance of spills out. For this reason, you can call it safer! It uses ultra-fine fiberglass separators that make it vibration resistant.
Furthermore, it stores much energy. As a result, they can deliver much current.
In fact, AGM is free from liquids (we’ve mentioned it earlier), which makes it more flexible than the rest. As there is no such liquid, you can either put it in an upright or sideways position in your boat. This makes it better to fit even in a tight space.
Compare with the most, the chance of corrosion is low. However, a bit of maintenance is required, but nor like the Lead-Acid battery.
Warning: Overcharging can ruin the lifespan of the battery. So, you have to stay alert while you’re charging this battery. Also, we do not recommend using it when it is under 50%.
Gel Batteries
It utilizes a gelled type electrolyte. This type of battery has got sulfuric acid by the addition of the blended fumed silica. It makes the battery unique as it need not stand in an upright position!
Like the previous one, it is stiff and efficient for long time uses. But it takes enough time to get the full charge. It doesn’t even a big matter, whereas it maintains a long lifetime.
The good thing is, you don’t need to face any leakage issues after using it for many days. This is an advantage for rough users. At the end of the day, you need to spend some time keeping up this battery!
Final Words
We hope that this write-up about the ‘types of marine batteries’ was quite effective for you! From now, you can give your hands on the right one to get the best feedback for your next marine projects. Without further delay, just go on. Make sure to hit the best battery for your boats (or whatever you are using), whereas the upcoming fishing season is knocking to your door!