Trolling Motor Battery : Everything You Want Know
A good battery will greatly improve the run time and performance of your trolling motor. That’s why we always recommend buying a lithium battery with a quality battery and a built-in battery management system. How to choose the right batteries for trolling motors? This article comprehensively analyzes all the information you may want to know, so that when you buy and choose a trolling motor battery, the battery is the most suitable for your trolling motor.
Types of trolling battery
Over the years, three main types of deep-cycle 12-volt batteries have been recommended for trolling motors: lead-acid batteries, AGM batteries, and lithium batteries.
The term “deep cycle” means that the battery is designed for a small discharge current over a longer period of time and with more frequent recharging. “Traditional” batteries are still – by far – the most popular trolling motor battery, and lithium batteries are gaining popularity.
Lead acid batteries
Lead acid batteries are the most common deep cycle batteries for trolling motors. They can handle the frequent draining and charging associated with trolling motor use, and they are the most affordable option. Depending on quality, lead-acid batteries last 1-3 years. These batteries can be purchased for less than $100 and are readily available at a variety of retail outlets. The downside to lead-acid batteries is that they require occasional maintenance — topping up with water — and they’re also prone to vibration and spillage.
AGM battery
An AGM battery is a fully sealed lead-acid battery that usually lasts longer on a charge and generally has a longer lifespan. A traditional deep cycle battery might last about 1-3 years, while an AGM deep cycle battery can last up to 2-4 years. AGMs cost 2x more than standard lead-acid wet batteries and may not be an option for those on a tight budget.
Lithium battery
LiFePO4 lithium battery also refers to LFP lithium battery, which is a battery component with high stability but slightly lower energy density. At present, more and more rolling motors start to use lithium batteries. LFP lithium battery life can reach more than 4000 times. The typical life is 3 times that of ordinary lead-acid batteries. And maintenance-free.
Related article: How to Choose the Best Fish Finder Batteries?
Which types of batteries is the best?
Obviously lithium batteries are the best for the following reasons.
- Extremely Light – For small boats and boats where weight can be a considerable factor, lithium batteries are on average 50% lighter than conventional batteries.
- Significantly Extends Battery Life – Lithium batteries last up to 10 years, compared to an average of 2-4 years for lead-acid wet and AGM batteries.
Although lithium batteries have a higher upfront cost, they can save you money in the long run. If you calculate the cost of replacing the battery every 2-3 years instead of replacing the lithium every 10 years, you will most likely spend less on the battery all in all.
- 100% Depth of Discharge – This essentially means you’ll have full power regardless of charge level. Traditional lead-acid batteries tend to lose charge and capacity when they are depleted.
- More Power – Due to constant, sudden fluctuations in speed, trolling motors require considerable starting torque (also known as thrust). When quick acceleration is required, lithium batteries can provide more energy due to their negligible voltage drop.
- Smaller volume: Li-ion batteries are not only lighter, they also take up less space.
Based on the advantages mentioned above, it is obvious that lithium battery is the best trolling motor battery
How to choice trolling motor batteries?
Factors such as battery type, battery voltage, battery capacity (Amp-hour rating), and more when choosing a trolling motor battery. Also, we should also consider battery size.
A trolling motor battery is a source of power that provides a continuous source of power for your boat. If the trolling motor battery is used for small trips, or for fishing purposes, a high-power battery is required.
You should always be very careful when choosing the right motor battery for your boat, always choose the right type of battery for the right type of boat. There are many different types of trolling motor batteries on the market, such as lithium-ion, deep cycle, and absorbent glass mat batteries. Generally speaking, the most cost-effective is the lithium LiFePO4 battery
How long do trolling motor batteries last?
Obviously, when someone asks me how long a trolling motor battery lasts, we differentiate between lead-acid and lithium-ion batteries, because the life span of the two is very different, which is determined by the chemistry inside the two. Let me talk about the life of lithium batteries and lead-acid batteries separately.
The lifespan of lead acid trolling motor battery
The picture above is the cycle life of Trojan deep-cycle gel battery, with a life of 500 cycles @80%DOD. That is to say, if you charge and discharge the trolling motor once a day, your trolling motor battery can last for 500/365=1.36 years. If you charge/discharge your golf cart every two days, your trolling motor battery will last for 500/365*2=2.72 years.
The lifespan of lithium trolling motor battery
The picture above shows the cycle life of the ELB deep cycle lithium battery, which exceeds 6000 cycles @80%DOD. That is to say, if you charge/discharge your trolling motor lithium battery once a day, your trolling motor battery can last for 7000/365=16.43 years. If you charge/discharge your golf cart every two days, your golf cart battery can last 7000/365*2=32.86 years.
In short,
The lead acid trolling motor battery can be used for 1-3 years
The lithium trolling motor battery can be used for 10-20 years.
How to extend battery Life?
Never mix different types of batteries, or mix old batteries with new ones. Charge the battery as soon as possible after each use – leaving the battery in a discharged state reduces its lifespan and performance. Store the battery in a cool, dry place during the off-season and keep it on trickle charge.
How to charge the trolling motor battery?
The actual charging process is actually relatively simple. For lithium battery chargers, the process is pretty much the same.
Step one, First unplugging your motor. Check the battery for leaks or damage, and make sure the battery terminals are clean.
Step two, Connect the charger to the battery. Positive to positive, negative to negative.
Step three, Connect the charger to the power source. Once connected, turn it on.
Step four, Monitor progress. When charging is complete, unplug it.
