Month: March 2021

Whether you’re trying to save money or get the most life possible out of the existing batteries on your golf cart, you might be wondering if it’s okay to mix new batteries with old ones. Generally, mixing old and new batteries is not recommended due to possible issues with performance and safety.

Problems With Using Old and New Batteries

No matter what type of battery you use and the brand manufacturer, all batteries will eventually lose their electrical capacity as they age. Combining older and newer batteries creates a discrepancy in maximum electrical capacity, which means you won’t get as much power supply in your golf cart. The cart’s performance can be negatively impacted due to a reduced power supply, and the cart’s accessories may not work as well.

Over time, the imbalance in electrical capacity increases between newer and older batteries. This can further affect performance and lead to engine or motor problems. Mixing older batteries with fresh ones allows the newer battery to deliver larger currents through the older battery, which has a higher level of resistance. Excessive levels of heat are produced as a result, which can cause the older battery to become damaged and stop working completely. It can also cause serious problems with both batteries, including leaks and discharge, which may result in the batteries exploding or otherwise failing.

Can You Mix Batteries From Different Brands?

Just as it’s not recommended to combine older and newer batteries on your golf cart, you should also stick to using batteries produced by the same manufacturer. The batteries should also have the same expiration date and be the same size. They should also be the same type of battery. Using batteries that are mismatched in one of these areas or more can also create an imbalance in electrical capacity. Over time, that imbalance can interfere with the golf cart’s performance and lead to the batteries wearing out at different times, which poses the same performance and safety hazards as combining newer and older batteries.

When to Replace a Battery

Knowing when to replace your golf cart’s battery can ensure that it operates efficiently and safely. A battery that has physical problems, such as leaking or bulging, should be replaced without delay. Batteries in this state can produce discharge or leak, which makes them become fire hazards if you continue using them. Other signs that it’s time to replace a battery include an overall reduction in performance and power in your golf cart or a failure of certain components such as the radio and air conditioning, which won’t get adequate power if the battery itself is bad.

Finding New Batteries at Northeast Battery

When it’s time to get new replacement batteries for your golf cart, you can look for the right ones at Northeast Battery. Northeast Battery maintains a large supply of batteries manufactured by reputable companies to give you a range of options. The expert staff will recommend the right battery for your golf cart so that you can continue safely and effectively operating your machinery.

Batteries need proper care and maintenance to function properly. That’s especially true of marine batteries, which are subject to certain stresses and operating conditions that can make them wear out and develop problems such as corrosion if they are not properly cared for. Whether you’re planning to store your boat before winter or you are just taking your boat out in the spring, Northeast Battery has top advice for making sure your marine battery stays corrosion-free.

Maintain a Proper Temperature

Marine batteries are durable by nature, but they will get damaged and corroded if they are subjected to temperatures outside of their optimal operating range. A general rule of thumb is that marine batteries should be kept in a mild climate. That might require removing the battery from your boat if it will sit for some time before its next use and storing it in a temperature-controlled environment. Batteries should also be stored in places that are free of high humidity and moisture levels, as both elements can lead to faster rates of corrosion.

Fill With Water

Many marine batteries need to be full of distilled water to function correctly. If the water level isn’t maintained, the battery may have a shortened lifespan. The level of distilled water should be checked periodically and replenished when necessary according to the battery manufacturer’s instructions.

Cleaning

One of the best ways to keep your boat’s marine battery free of corrosion is to make sure it is cleaned frequently and thoroughly. A thorough battery cleaning should involve cleaning the battery terminals, which you can do by disconnecting the terminals and cleaning with a solution made out of water and baking soda. Before you start cleaning the terminals, mix the water and baking soda together until they form a paste-like consistency. The mixture can be easily applied to the terminals using a toothbrush, which prevents corrosion from building up and will also remove any existing corrosion.

If your marine battery already shows signs of corrosion, you can clean it with a wire brush. Doing so will remove any debris, which can cause corrosion, along with the corrosion itself. Be sure to check the cable clamps and battery terminals for corrosion.

Preventing Corrosion

Once you’ve removed any existing corrosion from marine batteries, you’ll want to take steps to prevent corrosion from forming again in the future. This can be easily accomplished by putting a layer of petroleum jelly on the battery terminals prior to reconnecting them.

Contact Northeast Battery for expert advice and tips on marine battery care and maintenance.