Charging batteries in boat over winter

[Sushiholic11]

Sorry if this has been covered 100 times but I cant seem to find a definitive answer.

I am wondering what the dangers of charging the batteries in my Sea Ray 180 over winter while covered. I want to add a float charger, set it and forget it. Boat is stored outside under a boat cover.

Thanks,

Bob

 

[hblock72]

My boat is stored inside a garage at my house and I keep a deltran battery tender hooked up to it anytime it's parked in the garage....all winter long and between outings in the summer. The battery tender sits on the swim platform, so anytime I'm in the garage, I can glance at the led's to make sure everything is ok. I would think you could do the same thing in your situation as long as you put the charger somewhere where it will always remain dry. Depending on your setup, you may even consider putting the charger inside somewhere and running an extension cable to the boat, or bringing the battery inside to be maintained during the off season.

 

[dvx216]

The only thing I could think of is build up of hydrogen gas from charging the battery being captured under the cover if it was shrink wrapped. But looking at your location I would think it would be a good idea to bring the battery in from the cold. A 50% charged battery will freeze at -10 degrees F (23 degrees C ) Oh by the way if your battery freezes and you try to charge it could explode.

 

[Robski97]

My boats plugged in all winter.. Never an issue and shes shrink wrapped until tomorrow : o

Rob

 

[villain style]

^Until tomorrow?? Damn and in NY too.......

 

[Creekwood]

Here is a good choice for that Bob:

http://www.canadiantire.ca/en/pdp/noco-genius-g1100-smart-battery-charger-0111926p.html#.VPw9TvlY_-s