Conversions by Doug
Lead-acid batteries are the most common batteries found in golf carts. If you have lead-acid batteries, you’re probably familiar with the need for routine inspection and a periodic addition of water. Lead-acid batteries’ average life span is 3 to 4 years. You can ensure the best performance and improved safety by adhering to the following tips:
1. Consult the battery manufacturer’s instructions. One of the most overlooked yet important tools a golf cart owner has is to consult the battery manufacturer’s instructions and follow them carefully. These instructions can be found with a Google search (i.e., Trojanbattery.com, USbattery.com, Crownbattery.com).
2. Perform regular visual inspections. Such inspections are critical and can detect early problems.
* Look for physical damage, leaks, or distortions (swelling) on the batteries themselves. If you see these problems, call a trusted battery professional or local golf cart dealership.
* The batteries and terminals should be clean. If you notice a build-up of green or white deposits around the terminals, clean them. Videos can walk you through the process. Consider searching YouTube: “cleaning your golf cart batteries.”
3. Maintain proper water levels. This step is vital to battery function and life.
* If you have an automatic watering system, check weekly and follow the manufacturer’s fill procedures. For manual systems, check water levels at a minimum every other week (more frequently is even better).
* Always use distilled or deionized water. Regular tap water (especially from a water softener) will cause permanent battery damage.
* Do not overwater. Follow manufacturer’s guidelines carefully. Normally, you should add water only after fully charging batteries. However, if the batteries are not fully charged, and the water level is not above the cell plates, first add just enough water to cover the plates, then fully charge the batteries, and finally add water to the full level.
4. Ensure proper charging. Charge after each use. Lead-acid batteries do not develop a memory.
* If you notice batteries overflowing or liquid coming out of caps, you should stop charging immediately and call a trusted battery professional or local golf cart dealership.
* If an extension cord is required, always use the shortest cord possible (consider 15 feet or less).
* Ensure the extension cord is rated for at least 15 amps (usually marked on the extension cord) or look for cords made from 12- or 14-gauge wire. Search for “15-amp extension cords” on Amazon.com.
* Always plug cord directly into an outlet (never plug into a power strip). Ensure nothing else is plugged into that outlet. Many Robson homes have an outlet dedicated to golf cart charging.
* If the charger is acting odd, or if you ever trip a breaker or ground fault, stop charging and call a trusted professional. Knowing what’s wrong can avoid a costly fire.