Understanding Golf Cart Battery Basics
- by Joe Weber - updated on 3/25/2024
Spring is here, which means that golf cart season is upon us. Whether you're an avid golfer prepping their cart for the sunny months ahead or for getting around your neighborhood, Batteries Plus has the solutions you need to keep them powered up and ready to go.
Today we'll be discussing the basics of golf cart batteries, including life expectancy, replacement options and a few maintenance tips to help you keep them in tip-top shape.
How Long Do Golf Cart Batteries Last?
A golf cart battery will typically last between four to six years if you charge it regularly, maintain it and keep it stored properly in the off-season. If you find that it's taking noticeably longer to charge or that it's having trouble holding a charge for the full length of the course, it might be time to consider having it tested at your nearest Batteries Plus to find out if it's still in working order.
If you're doubting your golf battery's performance, take note of your battery's typical voltage and run time. The experts at your local Batteries Plus can compare this to the performance statistics of a new battery and help you determine if there's still some life left in it or if it's time for a replacement.
What is the Best Golf Cart Battery Replacement?
If your old battery turns out to be dead beyond repair, now might be the perfect opportunity to upgrade to a better battery. Today we'll be discussing two types of batteries commonly used in golf carts: flooded lead-acid and AGM.
Flooded batteries are the cheaper option between the two, but they come with the responsibility of regular upkeep. Specifically, this means topping off the electrolyte solution inside them with distilled water. If you choose to use flooded batteries in your golf cart, consider adding a Flow-rite watering system to make filling your batteries as easy as it can get.
If you're looking for a battery option that you won't have to "water" you'll want an AGM battery. AGM (Absorbed Glass Mat) batteries are 100% sealed and completely spill-proof, which can be a real asset on a bumpy course. They also last longer, charge faster and perform better in extreme temperatures, making it a great fit for carts used in retirement communities anywhere in the country. If you're looking for the ideal option, an AGM battery is your best bet.
One thing to note, most carts will be compatible with different types of batteries provided that they match the voltage of the original battery. It's a good idea though to check your user's manual to be absolutely certain.
A newcomer on the scene
Tired of lugging around heavy batteries and waiting hours for a recharge? Lithium batteries have arrived on the golf scene, ready to revolutionize your experience. While they may have a higher upfront cost than traditional lead-acid batteries, the benefits far outweigh the initial investment.
Here's how lithium batteries can take your golf game to the next level:
- Unleash the Power: Hit the course with more speed and efficiency with double the power and half the weight.
- Charge Like a Champ: Get back in the game with 4X faster charging. No more extended breaks!
- Durability You Can Count On: Say goodbye to frequent battery replacements with 4X longer lifespans.
- Safety First: Lithium Iron Phosphate is the safest technology, with advanced battery management systems for optimal performance.
There are a few special considerations when it comes to charging lithium golf cart batteries. You'll need to set up your charging system for lithium and there may be some voltage regulation needed for some accessories attached to the cart to function.
Contact your local Batteries Plus store today to learn how to upgrade your game with lithium batteries today!
Keep Your Golf Cart Battery Charged
The single most important thing you can do to maintain your battery is to keep it charged to the proper voltage. If you allow the charge to drop too low, you can damage your battery and shorten its overall lifespan significantly. A good rule of thumb is to charge your battery every time it drops to 50% of its total capacity.
The Schauer 36V Charger is the perfect option for 6-volt batteries, while the 48V Charger is designed for 8-volt batteries. Best of all, both chargers have a float stage to prevent overcharging. This makes them perfect for off-season storage, allowing you to connect your battery for a significant period without having to monitor it closely.
Maintain Your Battery's Electrolyte
If you have a flooded battery, you must regularly top off the electrolyte inside it with distilled water. If the electrolyte level drops below the tops of the plates it can cause irreversible damage to your battery.
You should also be sure not to overfill the battery as this can dilute the electrolytes, hurting your battery's performance and also causing the solution to overflow while the battery is charging.
Ideally, keep the fluid level at around ¼ inch above the top of the plates. It's important to check the electrolyte levels of your battery about once a month.
Keep Your Battery Terminals Clean
Another thing you'll want to do is keep an eye on your battery's terminals. If you start to notice a build-up of corrosion, clean it off right away using a mixture of baking soda and water or corrosion cleaning spray. A battery terminal brush is another handy tool for getting rid of corrosion. When the terminals are clean again, you can help keep them that way with an anti-corrosion spray or by covering them up with a pair of terminal protectors.
Batteries Plus is your golf cart battery headquarters. Visit us online, where you can shop for the right battery for your particular brand and model golf cart or stop in to any one of our locations and have your questions answered by one of our battery experts face to face.