Can a Trolling Motor Battery Get Wet?
No, a trolling motor battery should not get wet, as exposure to water can cause serious damage to the battery.
That’s the short answer. The long answer covers other useful information about how to protect your battery; here’s a brief snapshot of what you’ll learn:
At a Glance:
1️⃣ Water can cause serious damage to the battery, including corrosion and damage to the battery’s base, terminals, plugs, and electrical wiring. Prolonged exposure can cause irreparable harm.
2️⃣ Use a battery box to ensure proper installation and secure wiring of your trolling motor, and adhere to the manufacturer’s instructions and warranty guidelines. Alternatively, a marine battery designed to withstand water exposure can be used.
3️⃣ Proper maintenance is crucial for the performance and longevity of your trolling motor battery. This includes regular charging, correct storage, and regular cleaning.
Understanding how electric trolling motors work can help further explain taking your battery for a swim isn’t the best idea.
Hopefully, you’re reading this for prevention instead of the cure. But in either case, here’s what to do. Let’s dive straight in.
💧 What Happens When a Trolling Motor Battery Gets Wet?
When a trolling motor battery gets wet, it can cause corrosion and other water damage to the battery’s base, terminals, trolling motor plugs, and electrical wiring.
This can lead to a malfunction of the battery and other electrical components, potentially leading to a short circuit, which can be dangerous for the user.
Exposure to freshwater and saltwater can erode the battery, and prolonged contact with water can cause irreparable damage.
🛡️ How to Protect Your Trolling Motor Battery from Water Damage
To prevent water damage to your trolling motor battery, it is essential to take proper maintenance measures.
One way to protect your battery is to use a trolling motor cover. These can help protect your battery from weather conditions and other elements that can cause damage to the battery.
It is also essential to make sure that your trolling motor is properly installed and secured to prevent vibrations that can damage the battery and other electrical components.
Additionally, ensure that your trolling motor is wired correctly and that all connections are secure to avoid electrical issues that damage the battery and other electrical components.
Finally, follow the manufacturer’s instructions and warranty guidelines for your trolling motor and battery. Ensuring that your equipment is properly maintained and that any issues are addressed promptly and efficiently.
If you’d rather avoid water damage being an issue altogether, you could use a marine battery that is designed to withstand exposure to water and other harsh conditions.
Do some further education about how to choose a trolling motor battery to get some more insight into which batteries are suitable for your specific needs.
🛠️ Maintaining Your Trolling Motor Battery
As mentioned above, properly maintaining your trolling motor battery is essential to ensure optimal performance and longevity. Here are some tips to help you maintain your trolling motor battery:
Charging Your Trolling Motor Battery
Charging your trolling motor battery is an important part of battery maintenance. It is recommended to charge your battery after each use and to avoid overcharging or undercharging it.
Deep cycle batteries, which are commonly used for trolling motors, require a slow and steady charge to avoid damage to the battery. It is also important to use a charger that is compatible with your battery type, whether it is a lead-acid wet cell battery or a lithium battery.
Storing Your Trolling Motor Battery
When storing your trolling motor battery, it is vital to keep it in a cool and dry place, away from direct sunlight and heat sources.
I also recommend storing the battery in a battery box to protect it from damage and prevent any accidental spills.
Finally, if you plan to store your battery (say for the winter), then make sure it’s fully charged before storing it. Also, periodically recharge it to maintain its charge.
Protecting Your Trolling Motor Battery from Corrosion
Corrosion can cause damage to your trolling motor battery, which can lead to decreased performance and a shorter lifespan.
As mentioned above, using a cover is a great way to protect your battery from corrosion and from exposure to the elements, whether it is freshwater or saltwater.
It is also essential to regularly clean your battery terminals and connectors to remove any corrosion buildup, which can impede the flow of electricity and reduce the battery’s performance.
By following these simple tips, you can ensure reliable power from your trolling motor battery and enjoy more time on the water.
🔑Key Takeaways
Overall, it is not recommended to get a trolling motor battery wet. While some batteries may be labeled as waterproof or water-resistant, they are not designed to be submerged in water. Even small amounts of water can cause damage, shortening the lifespan of your battery.
1️⃣ Dry off a wet trolling motor battery promptly and store it in a dry place when idle to prevent damage.
2️⃣ Despite their durability, marine batteries can still corrode when exposed to water, so adherence to the manufacturer’s use and maintenance guidelines is critical.
3️⃣ When choosing a trolling motor battery, consider the operating environment and opt for a battery like a deep cycle one designed for consistent long-term power.
Ultimately, taking proper care of the battery can help to extend the lifespan of your trolling motor and ensure reliable performance on the water.
If you are in the market for a trolling motor battery or doing some research on which one might be suitable for your boat, take a look at buying guide to trolling motor batteries.
