Marine Battery Choice: Gel For Cranking Boat Success

Marine batteries are an essential component of any boat, providing power to start the engine and run on-board electronics. There are three main types of marine batteries: starting batteries, deep-cycle batteries, and dual-purpose batteries. Starting batteries, also known as cranking batteries, deliver short bursts of power to start the engine and are similar to car batteries. Deep-cycle batteries provide a continuous source of power over a longer period, ideal for running applications like trolling motors and sonar. Dual-purpose batteries combine the functions of both starting and deep-cycle batteries, offering an initial burst of power to start the engine and the cycling power to operate accessories. When choosing a marine battery, it's important to consider the specific power needs of your boat, including engine size, electrical features, and budget. Additionally, marine batteries come in different chemistries, such as flooded lead-acid, gel, AGM (Absorbed Glass Mat), and lithium-ion, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. This article will explore the different types and chemistries of marine batteries available, helping boat owners make an informed decision about which gel marine battery is right for cranking their boat.

Gel batteries vs wet-cell batteries

Marine batteries are designed to provide electrical energy to boats and other marine applications. They are built to withstand harsh marine environments, such as saltwater exposure, high temperatures, and vibrations. There are four main types of marine batteries: flooded lead-acid (wet cell), Absorbed Glass Mat (AGM), gel, and lithium-ion.

Wet Cell vs Gel Batteries

Wet cell batteries, also known as flooded lead-acid batteries, are the most traditional and affordable type of marine battery. They contain lead plates submerged in a liquid sulfuric acid electrolyte, which produces hydrogen and oxygen when the battery is being charged. These batteries require regular maintenance, including topping off the electrolyte levels with distilled water, and they must be vented to allow gases to escape safely. Wet cell batteries are prone to spills and must be mounted upright. They have a shorter lifespan than other types of batteries and self-discharge at a faster rate.

On the other hand, gel batteries use a thickening agent to convert the liquid electrolyte into a gel-like substance, offering spill-proof and maintenance-free operation. They are resistant to vibration and shock, making them ideal for marine environments with constant movement. Gel batteries function well across a wide range of temperatures and have a longer lifespan than wet cell batteries, providing up to three to four times the lifespan. They also recharge faster than wet cell batteries. However, gel batteries are more expensive and more sensitive to charging conditions, requiring a compatible charger. They are not ideal for engine-starting purposes and have a slower recharge rate compared to other battery types.

Both wet cell and gel batteries have their advantages and disadvantages. Wet cell batteries are more affordable, but require more maintenance and have a shorter lifespan. Gel batteries offer longer lifespans, better resistance to vibration and temperature changes, and faster recharging, but they come with a higher price tag and may not be suitable for engine-starting. The choice between the two depends on the specific needs and budget of the boat owner.

Cold Cranking Amps (CCA)

CCA specifically refers to the number of amps a 12-volt battery can deliver at 0°F (-18°C) for 30 seconds while maintaining a voltage of at least 7.2 volts. The higher the CCA rating, the greater the starting power of the battery.

CCA is an important consideration for those living in cold climates, as battery starting power deteriorates over time. A higher CCA rating should give you more confidence in the battery's performance over time. It's important to note that replacement batteries should equal or exceed the original equipment in CCA ratings; installing a battery with a lower CCA than the original may result in poor performance.

CCA is also relevant for vehicles with high-compression engines, which can be challenging to start in extremely cold temperatures. By measuring CCA, consumers can get a good idea of how a battery will perform in some of the worst conditions for starting a vehicle.

Marine Cranking Amps (MCA)

MCA is important when choosing a battery for your boat, as it indicates how much amperage is required to start the boat. A higher MCA rating indicates a higher ability to crank an engine.

When choosing a battery, it is recommended to select one with an MCA rating equal to or greater than the recommended value.

GEL batteries are a good choice for marine use as they are spill-proof, leak-proof, and submersible. They are also resistant to over-discharge, which can damage other battery types. However, they must be charged at a slower rate to prevent excess gas from damaging the cells.

Deep-cycle batteries

There are different types of deep-cycle marine batteries available, including:

• Lead-acid deep-cycle batteries: These batteries provide reliable power over an extended period, making them ideal for powering your boat and all its accessories, whether the engine is running or not.
• Lithium deep-cycle batteries: These batteries deliver maximum power and consistent performance, making them perfect for boating. While they may have a higher upfront cost, their long lifespan, efficiency, and reliability make them a cost-effective investment in the long run. Lithium deep-cycle batteries offer several advantages, including a longer cycle life (up to 10 times longer than AGM batteries), lightweight design, faster recharge, higher usable capacity, consistent performance, and low maintenance.

When choosing a deep-cycle battery, it's important to consider factors such as cold cranking amps (CCA), cranking amps, reserve capacity, and ampere-hour to ensure it meets your specific needs.

Some specific examples of deep-cycle marine batteries include:

• Power Queen 12V 100Ah LiFePO4 Lithium Battery Deep Cycle with 100A BMS for Solar Marine
• Vmax V35-857 12 Volt 35AH AGM U1 Battery for Minn Kota Traxxis 45lb Trolling Motor Boat Vehicle
• Renogy 12V 100Ah Deep Cycle Hybrid GEL Battery with Battery Box

Dual-purpose batteries

Dual-purpose marine batteries are ideal for smaller boats with limited space. They integrate the cranking power of a starting battery with the continuous discharge capabilities of a deep-cycle battery. This means they can provide the initial burst of power needed to start an engine, as well as the cycling power required to operate accessories.

Lithium dual-purpose batteries offer both engine-starting power and deep-cycle capabilities for extended use, making them ideal for a wide range of boating needs. While they may have a higher upfront cost, their long lifespan, efficiency, and reliability make them a smart and cost-effective choice.

When choosing a dual-purpose battery, it's important to consider the Cold Cranking Amps (CCA) and Marine Cranking Amps (MCA). CCA is a measure of a battery's ability to crank over an engine at 0°F for 30 seconds, while MCA is the same concept but measured at 32°F. Larger engines, especially diesels and high-compression gas engines, require a higher CCA or MCA rating.

Frequently asked questions