As one who has invested lots of time and money into his jet, you probably know how important it is to take care of your battery.
It is not cheap, but it can last for several years if you maintain it properly. So, how do you keep a jet ski battery with it? And can a Battery Tender harm a jet ski battery?
No, a jet ski battery tender will not harm your battery as long as you use it correctly. A Battery Tender can actually extend the life of your jet ski battery and prevent it from dying or sulfating. However, there are some things you need to know before you use a Battery Tender on your jet ski battery.
Why You Need a Battery Tender for Your Jet Ski Battery
A jet ski battery is different from a car battery in many ways. One of the main differences is that a jet ski battery is not constantly in use. Unlike a car battery, which is recharged by the alternator every time you drive, a jet ski battery is only used when you ride your jet ski.
This means that a jet ski battery can lose its charge over time, especially when it is not in use for an extended period. This can happen during the winter months when most jet ski owners store their jet skis away from the water.
When a jet ski battery loses its charge, it can suffer from a condition called sulfation. The accumulation of lead sulfate crystals on battery plates is commonly referred to as sulfation, and this reduces the battery’s capacity and performance. Sulfation can also cause internal resistance, corrosion, and short circuits in the battery.
If a jet ski battery is left uncharged for too long, it can become wholly dead and unusable. It is really frustrating and costly, as you will have to buy a new battery for your jet ski.
To prevent this from happening, you need a Battery Tender for your jet ski battery. A Battery Tender is an excellent device that can keep your jet ski battery charged and ready to use. It is also known as a trickle charger, a smart charger, or a maintainer. It works simply by monitoring the battery voltage and applying a small amount of current to prevent it from losing charge over time.
A Battery Tender can help you avoid the hassle and expense of replacing a dead jet ski battery. It can also extend the life of your jet ski battery and improve its performance. If you start using a Battery Tender, you can ensure that your jet ski battery is always in optimal condition and ready for your next ride.
How to Choose the Right Battery Tender for Your Jet Ski Battery
Not all Battery Tenders are the same. There are different types, models, and features of Battery Tenders that you need to consider before buying one for your jet ski battery. Here are some of the main factors that you should look for when choosing a Battery Tender for your jet ski battery:
1. Compatibility
The first and most important thing to check is whether the Battery Tender is compatible with your jet ski battery. You need to know the type, size, voltage, and capacity of your jet ski battery and match it with the specifications of the Battery Tender.
For example, if your jet ski battery is a 12-volt lead-acid battery that has a capacity of 20 amp-hours, you need a Battery Tender that can charge 12-volt lead-acid batteries with a maximum current of 2 amps. You can find this information on the labels of your jet ski battery and the Battery Tender or in the manuals of both products.
3. Performance
The next thing to consider is how well the Battery Tender can perform its function of maintaining your jet ski battery. You want a Battery Tender that can monitor the battery voltage and apply the appropriate amount of current to keep it at the optimal level.
You also want a Battery Tender that can switch between different charging modes, such as bulk, absorption, float, and maintenance, depending on the battery condition.
A good Battery Tender should have an intelligent microprocessor that can detect and prevent overcharging, undercharging, short circuits, reverse polarity, and other potential problems. You should check the reviews and ratings of different Battery Tenders to see how they perform in real-life situations.
4. Features
The last thing to look for is the additional features that the Battery Tender can offer. Some of these features can make your life easier and more convenient when using the Battery Tender. For example, some Battery Tenders have LED indicators that show the charging status and battery condition.
Some Battery Tenders have quick-connect harnesses that allow you to attach and detach the Battery Tender without removing the battery terminals.
Some Battery Tenders have temperature sensors that adjust the charging voltage to be in equilibrium according to the ambient temperature. Some Battery Tenders have spark-proof clamps that prevent accidental sparks when connecting the Battery Tender to the battery. You can compare the features of different Battery Tenders and choose the one that suits your needs and preferences.
One of the most popular and reliable Battery Tenders for jet ski batteries is the Battery Tender Jr. It is a 12-volt, 0.75-amp smart charger that can charge and maintain any 12-volt lead-acid battery, including AGM, gel, and flooded types.
It has a four-step charging program that automatically switches between initialization, bulk, absorption, and float modes. It has a solid-state two-color LED indicator that shows the charging status and battery condition.
It has a quick-disconnect harness with ring terminals and alligator clips. It has a built-in safety system that protects against overcharging, short circuits, reverse polarity, and sparks. It is also very affordable and comes with a 5-year warranty.
Another excellent option for a Battery Tender for jet ski batteries is the Solar Battery Tender. It is a 12-volt, 5-watt solar-powered charger that can charge and maintain any 12-volt lead-acid battery, including AGM, gel, and flooded types.
It has a three-step charging program that automatically switches between bulk, absorption, and float modes. It has an LED indicator that shows the charging status and battery condition.
It has a quick-disconnect harness with ring terminals and alligator clips. It has a built-in safety system that protects against overcharging, short circuits, reverse polarity, and sparks. It is also waterproof, weatherproof, and environmentally friendly. It is ideal for jet ski owners who need access to a power outlet or who want to save on electricity bills.
Conclusion
A jet ski battery tender is an essential device for your PWC; you should get one for your jet ski so it will protect the battery and make it last longer than it should. Please do not be scared; it won’t harm your Jet ski battery, but it will help it perform to its maximum.
