SELF-DISCHARGE IS MINIMAL

Looking after a boat’s batteries over the winter layup period will help to maintain its performance says DBS Leoch.

The company was formed from a partnership between DBS Energy and Leoch Battery PTE and supplies batteries for leisure and commercial boats.

Research from the company shows that modern batteries will retain 90% of their charge over the six months of winter.

Self-discharge is minimal even if it’s cold. At 10°C a battery will only lose 20% of capacity over 12 months.

“There’s no need to worry about batteries over winter,” explained Henry James DBS Leoch MD.

Discharge

“Some easy and common-sense tips will enable you to maintain the performance of your battery for when you start using it again in spring.”

DBS Leoch recommends that users start the winter layup with the battery fully charged in case of any discharge over time.

“You also need to disconnect from any other power source unless there’s a hook-up system where it’s permanently connected to the mains or an adapter,” added Henry. “Always store your battery in a dry place.

“If it’s in a potentially damp environment the top of the battery could get wet and electricity could still flow between the terminals and the battery could drain.”