A trolling motor is an essential component for anglers who want to navigate the water efficiently and quietly. A trolling motor has many advantages, but its performance is directly affected by the battery that powers the motor. Without a reliable battery, your trolling motor may not function properly and negatively impact your fishing experience. So how long do trolling motor batteries last? This article discusses trolling motor battery life and the factors that affect it.
Part 1: Trolling Motor Battery Type & How Long Do the Batteries Last
There are three main types of trolling motor batteries: lead-acid, gel, and lithium-ion. Each type has its own service life and performance characteristics.
- Lead-Acid Battery: Lead-acid battery is the most common trolling motor battery, there are two types of them, flooded type and sealed type. It is cost effective and has a service life of 2-4 years. Flooded lead-acid batteries require regular maintenance, but sealed types are maintenance-free.
- Gel Battery: Gel battery is a type of lead-acid battery that uses gel electrolyte instead of liquid. It is also maintenance-free and will last for 3-5 years.
- Lithium Ion Battery: The Lithium Ion battery is the most expensive trolling motor battery but has a lifespan of up to 5-7 years. They are ideal for anglers because they are lighter, have higher energy density than lead-acid batteries.
Part 2: Factors Affecting Trolling Motor Battery Life
Here are some factors that could affect trolling motor battery’s lifespan:
Charge and Discharge Cycles: The number of times you charge and discharge your trolling motor’s battery affects its lifespan. Over time, repeated cycling will reduce battery capacity and shorten its life.
Temperature: Extreme temperatures, whether hot or cold, can damage a battery’s internal components and reduce its overall lifespan. Always store the battery in a cool, dry place when not in use.
Depth of Discharge (DOD): The depth of discharge of the battery also affects its lifespan. Continuing to discharge the battery to an insufficient charge may shorten the life of the battery. We recommend keeping the DOD between 20-50%.
Battery Type: The type of battery you use also affects its life. Traditional lead-acid batteries tend to have a shorter life than lithium-ion batteries such as lithium iron phosphate.
Maintenance: Proper maintenance such as regular cleaning and checking the water level of lead-acid batteries can help extend their life.
Usage: How often and how long you use the trolling motor also affects battery life. Using the trolling motor at high speeds for long periods of time will drain the battery faster and shorten its overall lifespan.
Part 3: How to Maintain the Trolling Motor Battery
Properly charge the battery by using a charger designed for trolling motor batteries and fully charging according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
⭐Check the Water Level⭐
Regularly check and maintain the water level in the battery cells and make sure the plates remain covered.
⭐Keep Your Battery Clean⭐
Keep terminals and connections clean with a wire brush or battery terminal cleaner to prevent corrosion.
⭐Store Your Batteries Properly⭐
Store unused, fully charged batteries in a cool, dry place out of direct sunlight.
⭐Test Your Battery Regularly⭐
Test the battery regularly with a tester to assess voltage and overall condition, and replace the battery if necessary.
Extra Tip: Can I Change My Trolling Motor Battery to LiFePO4? What’s the Benefits?
Yes, it is possible to change your trolling motor battery to a Lithium Iron Phosphate (LiFePO4) battery.
The benefits of using a LiFePO4 battery over a traditional lead-acid battery include:
High Energy Density: LiFePO4 batteries have a higher energy density than traditional lead-acid batteries. This means that they can store more energy in the same amount of space and weight, making them ideal for use in electric vehicles and boats.
Longer Life Span: LiFePO4 batteries have a longer life span than traditional lead-acid batteries. They can last up to 10 times longer, which means that you won’t have to replace them as often.
Faster Charging: LiFePO4 batteries can be charged faster than traditional lead-acid batteries. They can be charged up to 80% capacity in just 30 minutes, which means less downtime for your boat.
Lightweight: LiFePO4 batteries are lightweight compared to traditional lead-acid batteries. This makes them ideal for use in boats, where every pound counts.
More Efficient: LiFePO4 batteries are more efficient than traditional lead-acid batteries. They can discharge up to 95% of their total capacity, compared to just 50% for lead-acid batteries. This means that you can use more of the energy stored in the battery before needing to recharge it.
Overall, changing your trolling motor battery to a LiFePO4 battery will provide you with several benefits including longer life span, faster charging, lighter weight, higher energy density, and better efficiency. While LiFePO4 batteries may be more expensive upfront, they will save you money in the long run by lasting longer and requiring less maintenance. Learn more differences from https://www.litime.com/blogs/blogs/lifepo4-battery-vs-lead-acid-battery
We really recommend you Litime (aka Ampere Time) LiFePO4 batteries.
LiTime 12V 100Ah LiFePO4 Lithium Battery is a good choice for trolling motor.
Conclusion
To sum up, the lifespan of trolling motor batteries ranges from 2 to 7 years and is dependent on the battery type and various factors affecting its performance. By selecting the appropriate battery type, adhering to the recommended charging methods, and operating the trolling motor in optimal conditions, you can prolong the battery’s lifespan and enhance your fishing experience.
It is crucial to follow the manufacturer’s maintenance and care guidelines, ensuring a dependable trolling motor battery for many years. Or you can upgrade the battery to LiFePO4 batteries to have better experience.