what to know about golf cart batteries

• Lead-Acid. Lead-acid batteries are the most common and lowest-cost deep-cycle batteries for golf carts. ...
• AGM. Absorbed Glass Mat (AGM) batteries are a sealed variation of a lead-acid battery. In an AGM battery, the lead plates sit between electrolyte saturated fiberglass mats.
• Lithium-Ion. Golf carts use deep-cycle lithium iron phosphate (LiFeO4) batteries. Don’t confuse these with the lithium batteries found in small electronics.

What is the best battery for a golf cart?

Trojan 6V 260 Ah Golf Cart Battery – The Optimum Choice

• The battery is 6V 260Ah high capacity battery
• The product requires regular maintenance
• Hydrolink technology is used for safe and efficient operation
• The product has a long lifecycle
• The product is ideally suited for different applications such as solar or wind energy

How many batteries does a golf cart need to have?

The average golf cart needs 4 to 6 batteries to operate correctly. In rare cases, you’ll find 8 batteries in a golf cart. Golf carts are powered by a total of either 36 volts or 48 volt. A typical golf round requires the golf cart to run for about 40 minutes.

What kind of batteries does a golf cart use?

• Incredibly fast 2-3 hour charge up times (vs. ...
• They live longer (3x - 5x longer) than traditional golf cart batteries
• They weigh less (reduce battery weight of your cart by 300lbs = more efficient cart)
• Require No maintenance (no adding water, cleaning corrosion, or checking acid levels)

More items...

What are the types of golf cart batteries?

What Are the Types of Golf Cart Batteries? There are two main types of golf cart batteries. They include lithium-ion and lead-acid batteries. These deep cycle cells play a vital role in the normal functionality of the cart on the golf field. Lead Acid Batteries. These are relatively large golf cart batteries.

How do I choose golf cart batteries?

The more lead and the heavier the battery pack as a whole typically leads to a more expensive but higher quality battery pack. And a higher quality battery pack will have a longer life for your golf cart and generally better performance in terms of range.

What should I know about golf cart batteries?

Golf carts use a series of batteries that supply the needed voltage and amperage, so size and power requirements are key features for a replacement. Be aware that golf carts do not use a single battery, but multiples of 6V, 8V, or 12V batteries. Ensure any replacement batteries you purchase use the same combination.

Should golf cart batteries be charged after every use?

Should you charge new golf cart batteries? Yes. New golf cart batteries should be charged every time they are used as this will extend their lifespan, help them retain their capacity for longer, and prevent discharge. It is vitally important to charge new golf cart batteries, even after their first use.

How many Ah batteries do I need for a golf cart?

6 volt golf cart batteries are typically 200 to 225 amp hours, and 8 volt batteries about 150 amp hours.

What is the average lifespan of golf cart batteries?

That all being said, properly maintained battery packs in fleet carts tend to last about 4-6 years while private owners tend to get about 6-10 years out of their battery packs. Other major factors include the type of options on the cart that may increase the draw from the battery pack.

How long do a set of golf cart batteries last?

between five and ten yearsWhen you drive a battery-powered golf cart model, it's important to charge it correctly and maintain your cart so that your battery will last as long as possible. When you take care of your golf cart's battery, you can expect it to last anywhere between five and ten years.

How often should I add water to my golf cart batteries?

DO: You have to get your timing right. After charging your battery is when you want to add water. Adding water after charging prevents acid from spilling over. ... We recommend service once or twice a year. Always use distilled water so you don't add additional minerals into your battery.

How do you know when golf cart batteries are dying?

8 Signs You Need to Replace Your Golf Cart BatteriesCharge Times Are Out of Hand. Just like any rechargeable battery, the repeated cycles of draining and charging your battery can take a toll on it. ... No “Get Up and Go” ... You See Visual Signs. ... Driving Until They Die. ... People Are Always Running The Radio.

How much does it cost to replace golf cart batteries?

Average Price of Golf Cart Batteries The average price of a golf cart battery replacement is going to be in the $800 to $1,500 range. Depending on the type of battery, it could even be in the $2,000 ballpark because powerful golf carts like a 72V need more expensive batteries installed.

What amp hour is best for golf cart?

On average, electric golf motors operate at 36 or 48 volts and draw between 50-70 amps of current while cruising at about 15 miles per hour. Keep in mind that the current draw during acceleration or while going up a hill is much higher.

Which is better 36 or 48 volt golf cart?

Basically, a 48V system gives you more “pep in your step” and picks up/speeds up a bit faster than a 36V system. Energy Needed/Amps Drawn- A 48V system draws less amps and provides a little more range with all things being equal (cart/passenger payload weight, motor horsepower, etc).

How far will a 48V golf cart go?

The maximum range of this new battery when powering a 48V E-Z-GO RXV golf cart is approximately 20.5 miles when moving at 12 miles per hour. In golfing terms, this equates to around 3 rounds or 54 holes.

How long does a golf cart battery last?

A lead-acid battery should last somewhere between 500 and 1,000 charging cycles. That’s quite the range. The reason for the wide range is because there are different factors that will affect your golf cart battery lifespan. The amount of daily or weekly use will determine how quickly your battery wears out.

What voltage do you need for a golf cart?

It is important to know that golf cart batteries come in three voltages: 6V, 8V, and 12V (V stands for Volts). Often, you will need to use multiple 6V batteries to meet the golf cart’s 36V power requirement. For example, if your golf cart requires 48V of power, you can use 6 8 volt batteries or 4 12 volt batteries.

Why is weight important in golf carts?

Weight is important because it determines the stability, power and duration capabilities of your golf cart.

What are the different types of golf carts?

There are two types of golf carts: gas and electric. If you own an electric golf cart, you have probably wondered about the battery. Electric golf carts run on a rechargeable battery. Recharging the battery might be more convenient than refilling a gas tank every week, but it also will eventually need to be replaced.

What does a dealer do with a golf cart?

A dealer will ensure everything is done safely and correctly. They will also be able to test your golf cart and do a safety and performance check. The downside is that using a dealer to install your batteries will significantly increase the total cost.

What does AH stand for in battery?

To explain further, the price depends on the voltage and on the “AH”. AH stands for ampere-hour and is the amount of charge in a battery that will allow one ampere of current to flow for one hour. The higher the AH, the longer one charge on the battery will last, like having a bigger fuel tank in a car.

Do lead acid batteries last longer?

Lead-acid batteries cost less upfront, but do not last as long as their competitor and require regular maintenance throughout their life span. The rate you use your golf cart with lead-acid batteries will also determine how long your lead-acid batteries last (as a pack).

How long does a golf cart battery last?

With proper maintenance, a golf cart battery should last anywhere between 5-6 years.

How many batteries are in an electric cart?

Your electric cart will accommodate either 6, 8, or 12V batteries. Its volt electrical drive system will have a 36V or 48V system. If you are not able to determine if it’s a 36V or a 48V electrical drive system, lift the cart seat so you can bring the battery compartment into view. You will be able to see 3, 4, or 6 holes.

What is amps in a car?

Amperage is akin to a gas tank in a car. Amps will determine how far the cart travels, and for how long, on a single charge. The more amps a battery generates, the further you’ll be able to drive. If you take your cart out for extended periods, this may be problematic.

What happens if you charge a battery with an underpowered charger?

An underpowered charger will cause a buildup of sulfation on the negative plate, affecting its performance. An overpowered charger causes an accumulation of corrosion on the positive plate. Ideally, you do not want your batteries to die, as charging a dead lead-acid battery can cause strain.

What are the two main electrical quantities to consider when replacing batteries?

Two main electrical quantities you will want to focus on when replacing batteries are voltage and current. Voltage is measured in volts, or “ V ,” and Current is measured in amps, or “ A .”

How to clean lead acid batteries?

Use a bristle brush and a mild solution to clean the top of each battery. You can also use anti-corrosive solutions and sprays to prevent corrosion, which can be a problem with lead-acid batteries. Alternatively, you can use battery covers. Check battery wiring.

What are AMG batteries?

Also called absorbent glass mat batteries, these are different from their lead-acid counterparts – the electrolyte is held in the glass mats as opposed to it free floating. These tend to hold their charges better than lead-acid batteries. Deka Solar Batteries.

What kind of batteries are used in golf carts?

While the aim of this article is to discuss primarily deep cycle batteries used in golf carts, some people are interested about learning the other types of batteries being used in Golf Cars. We have an article for you that discusses differing battery types in detail specifically for you.

How to tell 12 volt golf cart battery?

A 12 volt battery can be identified by seeing batteries with 6 cell caps on top of the battery indicating 2 volts per cell. A single 12 volt golf cart battery will have the least amperage capacity and is commonly used in 72 volt battery systems which are not terribly common among golf carts. EZGO golf cart batteries are known to be use 4-12 volt battery systems in some of their golf cart models.

What is the controller in a car?

A controller determines how much amperage is delivered from the batteries to the controller. Voltage is great to know, however the true knowledge lies with the total amperage in a battery pack. To get a better idea of what amperage is like in a car, let us discuss the relationship between Horsepower and MPG.

How to tell if a golf cart battery is 6 volts?

A 6 volt golf cart battery can be identified by seeing batteries with 3 cell caps on top of the battery indicating 2 volts per cell. Generally speaking, a single 6 volt battery will have the highest amperage capacity and will allow for the greatest range in an 8-6 volt battery system.

How does amperage affect golf carts?

It will determine how far you can travel on a single charge in an electric golf cart. The more amperage in a battery pack, the further you can drive before having to charge.

What to do when buying an electric golf cart?

If you are in the market to purchase an electric golf cart, then the simplest thing to do first and foremost is considering the age of your golf cart batteries. This is important due to many consumers being misled as to the age of the batteries in the cart they are purchasing. At times, a consumer will be told by a private party or dealer ...

How many cycles does a lithium battery last?

Also, some lithium batteries carry a lifetime warranty and can deliver up to 5000 cycles versus the typical 100-500 cycles for a lead acid battery. Even with a 500-cycle lead acid battery cart, that means replacing the power source 10 times more than the lithium-ion model.

How many batteries does a golf cart use?

A golf cart will usually be powered by six of these 6V batteries. This means that the cart will have a total voltage of 36V to pull from. These are the cheapest batteries on the market and so are cheap to replace when they come to the end of their lives. They are perfect for flat courses.

What is the best battery for a golf cart?

Lithium-Ion batteries. Lead-based batteries are the main topic of discussion in this article, they are the most common golf cart batteries. However, lithium-ion batteries are a new option to the market and ones to think about in terms of buying new batteries.

What voltage do electric cart batteries run on?

Most electric cart batteries run on 6V, 8V or 12V systems, you need to check this before you replace a battery. These batteries can be combined to boost the overall voltage of the battery to power the trolley.

What voltage do golf carts come in?

Golf carts come in a variety of total voltages which means that they require different battery configurations. Most carts come as 36V or 48V models. With this in mind, we then need to look at the fact that batteries come as 6V, 8V and 12V. From there it is basic mathematics.

What is a UPG battery?

This UPG battery is a sealed lead acid is a universal cell that fits into an array of golf carts. It is a very versatile battery in terms of how many systems can use it which is a huge advantage. This is a 12V battery that runs at 35Ah.

What is a golf cart?

Your golf cart is your personal chariot to ride into the battlefield of the golf course. You better take good care of it. The tips, tricks and facts of battery maintenance, above, will help you achieve this and help you get the best and longest life out of your batteries.

How to tell how old a battery is?

As batteries get older they do lose capacity and efficiency. The best way to check the age of your battery is locate the serial number on the battery itself. By noting this number, you can contact the manufacturer and they should be able to tell you how old that power pack is.

How to choose a golf cart battery?

If you want to choose the best golf cart batteries on the market, start by looking for the right voltage. Typically, it’s best to follow the guidelines in your manual in this regard. When it comes to capacity, you will need to calculate the optimal amperage for a parallel connection between the right combination of batteries. A parallel connection will increase the amperage, not the voltage. Finally, keeping in mind the required voltage or capacity, make sure you get the best model and brand available. If you can’t find the right capacity, look for similar batteries, but make sure you get the minimum capacity that your golf cart requires.

What voltage does a golf cart use?

Golf carts typically operate on 36V or 48V standards, and require a combination of multiple batteries in order to work properly. Advance Auto Parts stores offer f ree battery testing and installation *.

Can you put a golf cart battery in a car?

That is just one of the reasons why you will rarely find drivers trying to fit a golf cart battery into their regular car – although it can be a good temporary option as a lightweight, deep cycle alternative.

Does paralleling a golf cart increase amperage?

A parallel connection will increase the amperage, not the voltage. Finally, keeping in mind the required voltage or capacity, make sure you get the best model and brand available. If you can’t find the right capacity, look for similar batteries, but make sure you get the minimum capacity that your golf cart requires.

Can you use 6V batteries in a 48V golf cart?

For instance, if you own a 48V golf cart that features a combination of 6V and 8V batteries, it’s important to use that combination when finding replacements, and not to try to upgrade to a 12V set of batteries. Also, make sure you factor in for all the most essential details such as whether or not your golf cart requires deep cycle batteries, ...

How to tell if golf cart battery is bad?

1. Charging Issues. First, check to ensure that your golf cart was charged before you took it out.

How to check if golf cart is charging?

First, check to ensure that your golf cart was charged before you took it out. Plug it back into the charger and follow the instructions. Just in case the charger is the issue, check that the battery charger is turned on. There should be an indicator light to show that it is charging the batteries. In the morning, disconnect ...

What hole does a golf cart stop dead?

It’s a real hassle if your golf cart stops dead and you’re only at the 15 th hole of play. Not only is this an embarrassing event, but it’s a major pain to have to arrange for the cart to be towed back to the parking lot.

Why won't my cart fire up?

But more often than not, your cart suddenly refused to fire up and go due to a dead or bad battery.

Can you top up golf cart batteries?

Only top up your golf cart batteries using distilled water. Also, it is common for golf carts to be powered by multiple batteries. If this is the case, you will notice how several individual batteries have been “daisy-chained” together to form one large battery. 4.

Can you top up a golf cart battery with distilled water?

You need to leave enough room for expansion, so the acid should only be filled to just above the lead cells inside. Only top up your golf cart batteries using distilled water. Also, it is common for golf carts to be powered by multiple batteries.

Do golf cart batteries last forever?

Golf cart batteries won’t last forever. In fact, each year they age a little bit closer towards their final use. If your battery is close to its warranty end date you may want to consider simply making the upgrade now.