Choosing the right battery for your boat is the first step to enjoying smooth and safe rides on the water. With so many options available, it can be challenging to know which type of battery your boat needs. For most boaters, this decision comes down to two types: cranking batteries and deep cycle. Each serves a unique purpose, and understanding their differences can save you time and money.
Here, we’ll compare cranking versus deep-cycle marine batteries and highlight the key differences. Then, you can choose the battery that suits your needs.
What Are Marine Batteries and Why Are They Important?
Marine batteries power boats and other aquatic equipment. They can endure harsher environments than automotive batteries, such as constant vibrations, high humidity, and exposure to salt water. These cells are the heart of a vessel’s electrical system, powering navigation systems, lights, bilge pumps, and trolling motors.
Choosing the wrong battery type could leave your boat without power to start or reduce the functionality of your onboard equipment. To make the best choice, you should understand the two main types of marine batteries and how they operate.
Cranking Batteries: Definition and Purpose
Cranking batteries, often referred to as starting batteries, provide a short burst of high energy to start a boat’s engine. The key features of cranking batteries include the following:
- Cranking batteries deliver a large amount of power in a short time so that the engine starts reliably, even in cold weather.
- They recover and recharge quickly after use since they’re not designed to provide power over long periods.
- Cranking batteries have many thin lead plates, so they discharge energy rapidly.
Common Uses for Cranking Batteries
The primary function of a cranking battery is to provide the necessary power to start the engine, which is especially important for large vessels that require high crank power. On vessels with multiple batteries, cranking batteries act as a backup source to start the boat if other systems fail.
Cranking batteries also supply a surge of energy to electronics needed during the initial start-up process, such as ignition systems and gauges. If you’re boating in cold weather, cranking batteries guarantee engine ignition. However, cranking batteries are not ideal for prolonged use. Once the engine starts, the alternator takes over to power the system and recharge the cranking battery.
Deep Cycle Batteries: Definition and Purpose
Deep cycle batteries offer sustained, long-term power delivery. They’re ideal for situations where your equipment requires consistent energy over an extended period, such as when powering trolling motors, fish finders, or onboard appliances. Here are the key features of deep cycle batteries:
- Deep cycle batteries deliver steady power over an extended time.
- Because of their thick lead plates, they withstand frequent charging and discharging cycles without deteriorating quickly.
- These batteries can drain up to 80 percent of their capacity with minimal damage, making them perfect for extended use.
Common Use-Cases for Deep-Cycle Batteries
- Deep cycle batteries are ideal for running trolling motors because they provide the sustained energy needed for precise and quiet control during fishing or navigating shallow waters.
- They reliably power navigation systems, radios, GPS devices, and fish finders, so you stay on course during your boating trips.
- Deep cycle batteries are perfect for supporting the comforts of home, from refrigeration units to lights and small kitchen appliances, while on the water.
- These batteries deliver consistent power to safety systems, such as bilge pumps, during emergencies or rough conditions.
- Deep cycle batteries are dependable backup power sources, offering peace of mind during extended trips or when the main power systems fail.
While deep-cycle batteries won’t provide the large bursts of energy needed to start an engine, they’re necessary for powering your boat’s electronics and other auxiliary functions.
How To Choose the Right Battery for Your Boat
Selecting the right marine battery depends on your boat’s setup and how you use it. Here’s how to determine what’s best for your watercraft:
1. Assess Your Needs
If you’re focused on starting the engine and your boat has minimal electrical demands, a cranking battery is all you need. However, if you’re running trolling motors or onboard appliances, a deep-cycle battery is better for your needs.
2. Check Your Boat’s Power Configuration
Some boats require both types of batteries. For instance, your boat might need a cranking battery to start the engine as well as a deep cycle battery, or batteries, to power accessories. This is especially common on fishing boats and yachts.
3. Look for Durability
Choose a battery that can handle marine environments. Look for corrosion-resistant build quality and sealed designs to prevent issues from salt water and vibrations.
4. Consider Combination Batteries
Dual-purpose batteries are adequate for small boats. However, they don’t perform as well as dedicated cranking or deep-cycle batteries.
When To Buy a New Battery
Even with the best maintenance practices, marine batteries don’t last forever. If your battery is nearing the end of its lifespan (generally three to five years), replace it sooner rather than later. Look for these signs to know when it’s time for a replacement:
- The engine struggles to start despite charging the cranking battery.
- Electronics dim or fail to function properly with the deep cycle battery.
- Signs of physical damage, such as swelling, leaks, or corrosion, are obvious.
- The battery has difficulty holding a charge or requires frequent recharging.
Tips for Choosing a Battery Distributor
When buying a new marine battery, selecting the right distributor is just as important as choosing the battery itself. Here’s how to find a trusted seller:
- Choose a distributor that specializes in marine batteries to get a product that suits the rigors of boating.
- Check reviews and ratings to get insight into the distributor’s product quality and customer service.
- Look for a seller offering a generous warranty and flexible returns for your peace of mind.
- Compare prices and brands to avoid compromising on quality. A reliable battery will save you more trouble in the long run.
Smooth Sailing With the Right Battery
Choosing the right marine battery doesn’t have to be overwhelming. By understanding the key differences between cranking versus deep cycle marine batteries, you can make an informed decision that keeps your boat running smoothly.
Are you considering taking a trip on your boat but aren’t sure about which battery it needs? PowerHouse Lithium is your first stop for high-quality, affordable marine batteries. See how a lithium-ion marine battery can improve your adventures!