Choosing The Best Spot For Your Boat's Battery Charger Outlet

When it comes to boats, batteries are essential. A boat's battery is its lifeline, powering navigation systems, lights, and other electronics. To ensure a boat's battery stays charged, an onboard boat battery charger is a must-have. These chargers are permanently installed and provide a convenient and efficient way to keep batteries charged and healthy. When deciding where to mount a battery charger outlet on a boat, several factors need to be considered. Firstly, it is crucial to choose a spot that is easily accessible for maintenance but also protected from water and excessive heat. Engine compartments or storage lockers are common locations. Additionally, the charger should be mounted in a well-ventilated area to prevent overheating. It is also important to follow the manufacturer's instructions and recommendations for mounting locations. Another factor to consider is the proximity to the batteries. While the charger should be located relatively close to the batteries, it should not be mounted directly above them to avoid exposure to corrosive gases released during charging. Finally, the weight of the charger will determine the type of hardware needed for mounting. Smaller chargers can be mounted with screws, while heavier chargers require through-bolting.

Keep it dry

Keeping your battery charger outlet dry is crucial for its proper functioning and longevity. Here are some tips to ensure that your boat's battery charger outlet stays dry:

• Select a mounting area that remains dry: When choosing a location for your battery charger, opt for an area that is not directly exposed to water. Engine compartments or storage lockers can be good options.
• Ensure adequate ventilation: While keeping the charger dry, make sure there is sufficient ventilation around it to prevent overheating. Do not place it directly under a hatch, and give it some breathing room.
• Mount the charger vertically: Most battery chargers need to be mounted vertically. This helps keep the charger dry by allowing any moisture or condensation to drip away from the unit.
• Route and secure the power cord: The AC power cord should be routed and secured in a dry location when you are out on the water. It should be easily accessible for connection but tucked away to avoid exposure to moisture.
• Seal the charger mounting area: After drilling the mounting holes and attaching the charger, use marine sealant to bed each screw. This will help create a waterproof barrier around the charger.
• Protect the charger from direct water exposure: Use protective covers or enclosures to shield the charger from direct contact with water. This is especially important if your boat is exposed to waves or splashes.
• Regular maintenance and inspection: Regularly inspect the charger and its connections for any signs of corrosion or wear. Clean any buildup with a soft brush and a mild cleaning solution. This will help maintain the charger's functionality and longevity.
• Consider a sealed or encapsulated charger: If your boat is frequently exposed to water, consider investing in a sealed or fully encapsulated charger. These chargers are designed for demanding environments and can even operate when submerged in water, although this is not recommended.

Allow for ventilation

When choosing a location to mount your battery charger, ventilation is key. The best option is a cool, dry area with adequate ventilation. Higher up is generally better due to better ventilation and protection from the corrosive humidity of the bilge. Avoid high-temperature locations, such as your engine compartment, if possible.

Many of the storage areas that battery chargers are kept in have poor ventilation. If this is the case, help your charger breathe by not surrounding it with life jackets, boat covers, and other items that block airflow. Adding additional locker vents to increase airflow may also be beneficial.

It's important to note that while chargers should be close to the battery or bank, they should not be mounted directly over the batteries. This is because batteries, particularly wet cell types, produce corrosive gases while charging, which can quickly damage a charger located above them.

If your charger must be located in a cockpit locker or lazarette, be sure to tuck it away in a dry corner, not directly under the hatch. Give it some breathing room so it can stay cool.

Don't mount it directly over the batteries

When installing a battery charger on a boat, it is important to remember that the charger should be located relatively close to the batteries, but not too close. One of the most common mistakes in charger installation is locating it directly above the batteries.

While keeping the DC cables between the charger and the batteries short is important, batteries give off gases that cause and promote corrosion during charging. Placing the charger too close to the batteries, where it is exposed to these gases, will shorten its life, particularly if the batteries are liquid electrolyte.

Most chargers must remain dry, but they also need adequate ventilation. If the charger is located in a cockpit locker or lazarette, be sure to tuck it away in a dry corner—not directly under the hatch. Give it some breathing room so it can stay cool.

To avoid the issues caused by placing the charger directly over the batteries, it is recommended to select a mounting area that stays dry and allows for space around the charger. This will ensure that the charger has adequate ventilation and is not exposed to excessive heat. Common locations include engine compartments or storage lockers.

When installing the charger, use a mounting template to mark the mounting holes. Drill the holes carefully and attach the charger using corrosion-resistant hardware. Ensure that the charger is secured firmly to prevent it from moving due to vibrations. Double-check the positioning to ensure it complies with the manufacturer's recommendations and provides easy access for future maintenance.

Use the right tools

When it comes to installing a battery charger on your boat, using the right tools and equipment is essential for a safe and effective setup. Here are some detailed instructions and considerations for the tools you'll need:

Hand Tools and Safety Gear

You will need common hand tools for the installation process. This includes items such as screwdrivers, wrenches, and pliers. Ensure you have a variety of sizes to accommodate different fastener types. Additionally, don't forget to wear protective gear, including gloves and safety glasses, to safeguard yourself from potential electrical hazards.

Quality Hand Crimper

A quality hand crimper is crucial for making secure and reliable connections. Look for one that can handle a variety of terminals suitable for wire up to #10. If you need to work with larger wires, you may have to purchase pre-terminated cables or create them yourself.

Drill Motor

A drill motor will come in handy when creating mounting holes and running wires. Choose a drill that is lightweight and easy to manoeuvre in tight spaces. Additionally, ensure you have the appropriate drill bits for the job, including a range of sizes to accommodate different screw diameters.

Marine-Grade Stainless Steel Fasteners

When securing the charger to the mounting surface, use marine-grade stainless steel fasteners, such as screws or bolts. These fasteners are designed to withstand the harsh marine environment and will help prevent corrosion and ensure a long-lasting installation.

Marine-Grade Wires and Connectors

Use only marine-grade wires and connectors for the DC wiring between the charger and the batteries. These components are designed to be corrosion-resistant and provide secure connections in wet environments. Ensure the wire size matches the manufacturer's recommendations based on the distance between the charger and the batteries.

Butt Splices and Heat Shrink Tubing

When making wire-to-wire connections, use marine-grade butt splices, preferably those with adhesive-lined heat shrink tubing. This type of connection provides insulation, protection, and strain relief for the joints. Avoid using wire nuts or electrical tape, as they can loosen over time and expose energised connections.

Ring Terminals

If the charger's DC wire comes with spring clamps or alligator clips, remove them and replace them with proper marine-grade ring terminals. Ring terminals provide a more secure and spark-free connection to the battery posts, reducing the risk of sparks and explosions.

Multimeter

A multimeter is a handy tool for testing the charger's functionality and verifying the battery voltage. It will allow you to measure voltage, current, and resistance, ensuring that your charger is operating correctly and that the batteries are receiving the appropriate charge.

Ensure easy access

When deciding where to mount your battery charger outlet on your boat, it's important to consider factors that will ensure easy access for maintenance and optimal functioning. Here are some guidelines to follow:

Choose an Accessible Location:

Select a mounting area that is easily accessible for maintenance and allows for sufficient space around the charger. This could be in an engine compartment or a storage locker. Ensure that the charger is not mounted in a location that is difficult to reach, as you will need to access it for regular maintenance and connections.

Consider Ventilation and Protection:

The chosen location should provide adequate ventilation to prevent overheating. Higher locations are often preferable due to better ventilation and reduced exposure to corrosive humidity from the bilge. Avoid mounting the charger directly above the batteries, as batteries release corrosive gases during charging, which can damage the charger. Additionally, keep the charger away from excessive heat sources, such as the engine compartment, if possible.

Ensure Dry Conditions:

It's crucial to mount the charger in a dry area. While some chargers are waterproof, it's still best to protect them from direct exposure to water. If you need to drill holes for mounting or routing cables, seal them properly to prevent water ingress. This is especially important if you're mounting the charger in a splashwell area or a compartment that may get wet.

Follow Manufacturer Recommendations:

Always refer to the manufacturer's instructions and recommendations when choosing a mounting location. Some chargers may have specific guidelines regarding proximity to fuel or batteries. Following these guidelines will help ensure the safety and optimal performance of your charger.

Plan for Cable Management:

Consider the length of the charger's cables when choosing a mounting location. Ensure that the cables can reach the batteries and other necessary connections without being stretched too thin. If needed, you can purchase extensions for the cables to provide more flexibility in your mounting options.

Prioritize Convenience:

Think about your charging routine and choose a location that makes it convenient to connect the charger. For example, you may want to mount it near an accessible outlet or in an area where you can easily plug in an extension cord. This will make the charging process more efficient and reduce the hassle of setting up each time.

By following these guidelines, you can ensure that your battery charger outlet is mounted in a location that provides easy access for maintenance and optimal functioning, enhancing your boating experience.

Frequently asked questions