Cold Weather is Here: Winterizing Golf-Cart Batteries
- Clean and Neutralize the Battery Terminals. Any debris left on the battery terminals turns into a conductive environment, including dust and corrosion.
- Check the Water Levels. ...
- Charge the Battery. ...
- Find an Indoor Storage Area. ...
- Keep Checking Them. ...
- Avoid Stacking. ...
How do I store my golf cart battery?
Feb 11, 2022 · A golf cart battery is similar to the fuel in your automobile in that it has to be operating at peak performance all of the time. How do I keep my battery from freezing? Install a battery blanket to keep your batteries safe. Make a purchase of an electric battery blanket to keep your battery warm when the temps begin to drop.
How does cold weather affect golf cart batteries?
1. Batteries need to be dry and cleaned of any corrosion and dirt. Batteries can self-discharge by a small trickle of... 2. Fill all of the battery cells to the proper levels. Remove the battery tops and use distilled water to raise the... 3. When your golf cart batteries are removed and taken ...
How do you charge a golf cart battery in the winter?
Nov 18, 2015 · As a rule of thumb, subtract four points (.004) from your hydrometer reading for every 10-degrees below 80 °F (5.6-degrees below 27 °C). For example; if the temperature of the electrolyte is 50 °F and your battery specific gravity reading is 1.200, you must subtract .012 from your reading. In this case .004 for every 10-degrees equals .012.
How long do golf cart batteries last?
Batteries will continue to self-discharge, even during periods where they are not used or are being stored away. If you don't disconnect your battery's wires, you may find yourself with a golf cart battery that won't start in the spring. Set the key switch to "OFF". If your golf car is an electric RXV, make sure the 'Run/Tow' switch is set to the 'Run/Storage' position. Remember, if it's left in the …
How do I protect my golf cart batteries in the winter?
Keep them in a cool area and stay away from areas that are near heat sources such as radiators or heaters, since hot temperatures accelerate battery self-discharge. In addition, al- ways avoid areas where freezing temperatures are expected during the storage pe- riod.
At what temperature does golf cart batteries freeze?
If you have a golf cart battery that has not been charged sitting in your garage, it will freeze at around 20 degrees Fahrenheit.
Should I leave my electric golf cart plugged in all winter?
Manufacturers suggest leaving your golf cart plugged in all of the time while using an auto battery charger, as it will keep the batteries fully charged and always available. If batteries are not charged for prolonged storage, they may damage over time and deliver less capacity.
What do you do with an electric golf cart in the winter?
You should store your electric golf in a covered dry area, away from any water exposure. A golf cart storage shed would be the best place, but if you don't have a small storage building with a door, make sure you place it under a shelter, and away from where the elements can get to it.Feb 7, 2022
Should I keep my golf cart plugged in all the time?
No, it's not recommended that you leave your golf cart plugged in all the time. Although automatic chargers are designed to prevent over-charging, there is still the risk of the circuit breaker tripping, which would result in damage to your battery's cells.Sep 6, 2021
How do you store golf cart batteries in the summer?
How To Store Your Golf Cart During The SummerCharge Batteries Completely. a. Turn Key OFF and Remove Key. ... Refill Water Levels. a. Refill water levels to 1/4" above plates, using DISTILLED WATER ONLY. ... Disconnect Battery Charger. a. ... Disconnect Main Positive and Negative Connections. a. ... Lift Golf Cart Of The Floor. a.Apr 25, 2018
How often do you add water to golf cart batteries?
The typical schedule is about once every 30 days, but this may vary by several days depending on your specific situation. When filling the batteries, add just enough water to bring it 1/4 inch to 1/8 inch shy of the indicator ring to prevent overfilling.Nov 22, 2016
How far will a 48 volt golf cart go?
How Long Will a 48 Volt Golf Cart Run? A 48 volt golf cart, depending on its amperage can go from 12 miles to 35 miles.
Can you overcharge golf cart batteries?
Overcharging your golf cart batteries may damage them. It is best to use an automatic charger that turns itself off when a battery is fully charged. Some older models lack this important feature. If you must use a manual charger, don't forget to turn it off.May 29, 2013
How do I winterize my EZ Go golf cart?
0:144:18E Z GO 2008 2014 RXV Winter Storage Instructions - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipSimply by removing the cap. And checking all of the cells. In each individual battery each cell isMoreSimply by removing the cap. And checking all of the cells. In each individual battery each cell is individual they will not flood over and fill each other.
Can I drive my electric golf cart in the snow?
Golf carts can get wet, and they are safe to drive in the rain. They are electric vehicles, but their batteries are enclosed inside of a waterproof casing underneath the seat. A standard golf cart is an all-weather vehicle that can be used all year round in snow, rain, and sunshine.
What happens when a battery is discharged?
A discharged battery in extremely cold temperatures will allow the electrolyte to freeze, causing it to expand. Electrolyte expansion can crack the battery case, causing a leak or complete battery failure.
What temperature should a hydrometer be?
The optimum temperature to take a hydrometer reading is 80 °F (27 °C). As a rule of thumb, subtract four points (.004) from your hydrometer reading for every 10-degrees below 80 °F (5.6-degrees below 27 °C).
Who was the 2015 golf champion?
Last year’s winner and three-time champion, Steve Agazzi from Turtle Point course at Kiawah Island Resort, shot a 78 along with another past champion, Matthew Wharton, CGCS from Carolina Golf Club in Charlotte, N.C. Frank Christopher, of Trinity Turf, is the 2015 affiliate champion after a round of 79.
Can golf car batteries be charged in cold weather?
While warmer climates tend to speed-up charging and discharging rates, cold winter months can slow down the rate of charge/discharge. In addition to affecting rates, colder temperatures also carry the risk ...
Can a golf cart battery freeze?
The cold winter months can slow down the rate of charge/discharge on your vehicle, golf cart and equipment batteries. In addition to affecting rates, colder temperatures also carry the risk of freezing the electrolyte if the battery is not stored properly. Here are some key tips to keep golf cart batteries from freezing ...
First Off: The Basics
Before leaving your golf cart, ensure that the battery is clean, fully charged, and has been disconnected from any source of electrical drain. Batteries will continue to self-discharge, even during periods where they are not used or are being stored away.
Check, Re-Check, and Check Again
Make a note in your planner or set an alarm on your phone to remind you about every three weeks to check on the batteries, even when you're not using the golf cart or ATV itself. Golf cart batteries need to be recharged at a minimum of about every 30 days, or as needed.
How to clean battery terminals?
Create a neutralizer with these ingredients, such as: 1 cup baking soda. 1 gallon water. Mix these two items together. Apply it to the battery terminals by using a wire brush. Gently clean off the terminals.
Can you add acid to a battery?
Avoid the temptation of overfilling the battery because this action only dilutes the electrolyte, which leads to a decline in charging power. Never add any acid to the battery either. Its electrolytes are perfectly balanced during the manufacturing process.
Do golf cart batteries have water?
Golf cart batteries, including models from the Trojan Battery Company, usually have water within their individual cells. Batteries with anything less than a perfect level will break down over the colder months.
What is the best way to clean a battery?
A clean cloth, warm water and baking soda is perfect to clean the battery. The baking soda will neutralize any acid corrosion found.
What is the run/tow switch on a cart?
If the Run/Tow switch is found on your model of cart, it’s very important that you set it to the Run/Storage switch instead. Keeping your cart stored and set to Run/Tow is a great way to drain your battery completely!
How much pressure should I put on my tires?
Your tires will need to inflated between 15-25 PSI, but check your owners manual for the correct amount of pressure. Alternatively, check the side of your tires, and you can probably find the correct PSI number written on them. You’ll want the tires inflated as high as allowable, in order to protect your wheels.
Can you over inflate a car tire?
It’s critical that you don’t over inflate your tires. Over inflated tires have known to explode, and they also cause other issues like less stability while driving your cart. Over inflation is more dangerous if you plan on using the cart near-term, compared to during storage time, simply avoid it if you can.
Is it bad to inflate tires?
On the other hand, under inflating your tires is more problematic during long term storage. Your tires won’t be rotating when they’re sit stationary, so you create the risk of ruing your tires formation, and even your metal wheels.
Do golf cart batteries need to be charged?
It’s essential to fully charge your battery just prior to placing your golf cart in storage. Batteries will self discharge if left sitting for long periods of time. Therefore in order to give your battery the best possible life cycle, you’ll want to keep the battery topped up as often as possible. Ensure your battery cables are screwed on tight.
How long do golf cart batteries last?
Golf cart batteries generally last for 4 to 5 years. After 4 to 5 years, if you find your batteries not working correctly, it may be time to replace them with new batteries. For a new set of batteries, browse through our wide selection here: https://www.golfcartgarage.com/golf-cart-batteries/. #Batteries. #Troubleshooting.
What affects battery life of golf cart?
One of the most important things that affect battery life is your purchasing power. Do not buy a charger simply based on lowest cost. Consider the quality of the golf cart charger before buying.
When to add water to a battery?
Watering is an important factor for the batteries. Add water when the batteries are completely charged. It's important to add water at the right time and in the right amount for optimal performance.
Can you leave the radio on in a golf cart?
Leaving the accessories 'ON' for a long time can affect the battery life (i.e. , leaving the radio or lights on in an idle golf cart). Always remember to shut off all the accessories before leaving the golf cart.
Should golf cart batteries be charged?
Do not believe that golf cart batteries should be charged only when running low. If you drive your golf cart today, charge the batteries. Leaving golf cart batteries until they get too low will damage them, just like overcharging.
Can you drive a golf cart on a steep hill?
Driving your golf cart forcefully on the steep hill could leave you stuck and damage your batteries.
Can you leave a golf cart inactive?
Leaving the golf cart inactive for an extended period reduces battery life. Using the batteries in a partial state of charge or storing the discharged batteries may damage them badly.
How to keep a battery from leaking?
Clean your battery: The first thing you will want to do is clean your battery. While you should regularly clean your battery, it becomes much more important prior to long periods of inactivity. Dirt and corrosion cause batteries to discharge faster, which greatly decreases the lifespan of your battery.
How hot should a car battery be?
Store in the proper temperature: Avoid exposure less than 32°F and more than 80°F.
Why are lithium batteries so popular?
While lithium-ion batteries handle cold weather better than most battery chemistries, temperatures too high or too low still compromise their ability to store and release energy. Cold temperature increases the internal resistance and lowers the capacity.
What is the best battery for cold weather?
Use high-quality lithium-ion batteries: Modern lithium-ion batteries, like those produced by NexGen, handle cold temperatures better than cheaper versions. There are plenty of manufacturers that have cheaper batteries, but this comes with a catch. NexGen batteries, for example, can last 5,000 cycles longer than competitors.
Is lithium ion battery safe?
Lithium-ion battery technology has come a long way. Advances in technology have made them extremely safe and durable enough to handle the harshest conditions. Knowing how to store lithium-ion batteries during the winter will only further these benefits.
Does cold weather affect battery life?
Put simply, cold weather will decrease the lifespan of your battery because it will require charging more often. Lithium-ion batteries have a certain number of charging cycles before they are no longer usable. Thus, how you store your batteries when you aren’t using them is important. To ensure your battery survives the winter, ...
