Lead-acid batteries, the kind
that powers golf carts, last a good three years minimum and can reach up to
seven or more depending on how they are used.
In order to reach their maximum
life, a good maintenance system is necessary. Here are the essentials in
battery maintenance to save you a whole lot of money you can otherwise spend on
other equipment like a golf cart cover or perhaps another golf club:
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| Photo credit: badassgolfcarts.com |
Cleaning
Before
cleaning the batteries, see to it that the vent caps are tightly sealed.
Prepare a solution of distilled water and baking soda, and use it to clean the
battery top. Rinse and then dry using a piece of cloth. Use a post and clamp
cleaner to cleanse the battery terminals and the cable clamps’ interior.
Operating
Never leave it on for long
periods of time so it won’t get discharged. After usage, see to it that
everything is switched off. When driving on the course, avoid passing through
steep hills and make sure your total load does not exceed the cart’s suggested weight
capacity.
Charging
It
is good practice to charge your batteries after every use, short drives
included. Keep track of the charge time – overcharging will cause damage to
your batteries. To be safe, invest in one of those automated chargers that turn
off when the batteries are fully charged. Of course manual chargers are okay as
long as you are wary of the charging time.
Storing
When storing your batteries be
sure that they are fully charged. During the winter, it is best to look for a
warm place for storage. During the summer, store the batteries in a rather cool
place.
As with all your prized
possessions, it is best to take care of your golf equipment. In future articles,
we will tell you more about batteries: installing, replacing, charging – the
works.
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