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If you keep replacing your jet ski battery every year, then it is about time to ask how long a jet ski battery should last. Jet ski batteries are an important component of any personal watercraft. If you recently bought a jet ski battery, you may be wondering how your new battery will last and how to check if it's bad. In this post, we'll answer these questions and offer some tips on maintaining your jet ski battery.
A Healthy Jet Ski Battery Lifespan
A healthy well-maintained jet ski battery lasts for around 3 - 5 years. Batteries that are not cared for and the ones that lie idle for a long time can die in less than two years. In the off-season, most of the jet ski batteries are not maintained. If your jet ski battery is dying in less than two to three years, then you are probably doing one or all of these things:
1. Keeping the jet ski idle for a long time without charging the battery.
2. Not charging or intermittently charging the battery in the winter season.
3. Overcharging the battery.
4. Handling your jet ski battery in the same manner as your car batteries.
Factors That Determine the Life of Your Jet Ski Battery
If your battery has completed its normal life (3 - 5 years), then it is about time to replace it with a new one. In contrast, a neglected battery only lasts for one to two years, if the battery is younger than 3 - 5 years but is making a rapid clicking sound, it means that it is not working properly. Unlike a bad starter relay in which the battery makes one or a maximum of two click sounds when you start it, a bad battery will make constant clicking sounds coupled with an unresponsive engine, indicating that it is now time to change the battery of your jet ski.
The average lifespan of a jet ski battery is three to five years, in contrast, a neglected battery only lasts for one to two years. Five major factors contribute to the life of your battery:
1. Type of the Battery: For a jet ski, a sealed AGM battery is more suitable than a well-cell or a flooded lead-cell battery.
2. Quality of your jet ski battery: A quality jet ski battery might cost you a little more than an average battery, however, it saves you time and money in the long run
3. Maintenance of your jet ski: How you maintain your jet ski will not only determine the health and life of the battery but also the overall performance and lifespan of the jet ski itself
4. Storage and Temperature: How long the jet ski battery lasts also depends on how you store the jet ski and at what temperature you store it
5. Size of the Engine: Different sizes of jet ski engines require different batteries.
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Knowing how long your jet ski battery will last is important because it helps you plan for future expenses and ensures that you won't be stranded out on the water with a dead battery. Additionally, understanding how to test and check the battery can help you maintain it properly and extend its lifespan.
Types of Jet Ski Batteries
There are two main types of jet ski batteries: conventional flooded batteries and sealed AGM batteries.
Conventional Flooded Battery
Conventional batteries are normally less expensive than sealed AGM batteries, but they require heavy maintenance. These batteries need constant maintenance, including adding distilled water from time to time to prevent sulfation. Continuous water loss is a normal characteristic of this type of battery due to the high internal temperature, so the fluid level of the battery needs to be checked regularly.
Sealed AGM Jet Ski Batteries
Most of the newer jet ski models have already shifted to AGM (absorbed glass mat) batteries, which are more reliable and maintenance-free. These batteries are spill-proof and require no maintenance, making them a convenient choice for jet ski owners. Sealed AGM batteries are also more resistant to vibration and have a longer service life.
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Maintaining Your Jet Ski Battery
To ensure a longer lifespan for your jet ski battery, follow these maintenance tips:
1. Regular Testing: Use a multimeter or voltmeter to regularly test the charge level of your battery.
2. Proper Charging: Charge the battery correctly and follow the manufacturer's guidelines. Avoid overcharging or undercharging the battery.
3. Rinsing: Rinse your jet ski with fresh water after each use to prevent corrosion and clean off any saltwater residue.
4. Fuel Level: Keep your fuel tank full to prevent condensation and moisture build-up.
5. Covering Your Jet Ski: When not in use, cover your jet ski with a soft, layered cover to protect it from dust, debris, and potential damage. This is important whether your jet ski is parked or being towed.
By understanding the lifespan of jet ski batteries and following proper maintenance procedures, you can enjoy trouble-free rides on the water. Consistent care and attention will ensure your jet ski battery performs optimally, allowing you to make the most of your time on the water.