What Happens if Batteries Get Wet?

What Happens if Batteries Get Wet

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You’re out sailing on your boat enjoying the serene marine atmosphere when suddenly your boat’s engine, bilge pump, and lighting die. Well, there may be something wrong with your battery.

Although a marine battery is one of the most vital components of a boat, most people often neglect it. This brings us to one of the most common questions about boat batteries: What happens if batteries get wet? 

Stick around as we explore this topic further.

 

What Happens When Water Hits a Battery?

 

So, what happens if batteries get wet? For starters, the battery’s terminals and housing may begin to corrode, therefore affecting its performance. Also, if it is submerged in saltwater, it may lose its charge quickly since saltwater conducts electricity.

When water drips onto the battery’s terminals, some electric currents might form, causing an electrical pathway. This can discharge the battery in a very short time.

 

Can Marine Batteries Get Wet?

 

Like we mentioned earlier, marine batteries can get wet. And if you do not dry its housing and terminals immediately, the saltwater may begin conducting electricity, which may drain the battery’s charge. 

You may be wondering how this can happen.

Most people assume that since a boat battery has an outer casing, it cannot be damaged if submerged in water.  However, that is not entirely true. Although the outer casing will prevent water from getting into the inner parts of the battery, it doesn’t make your marine battery 100% waterproof.

Therefore, your battery will still lose its charge if submerged in water for a long time.

It is also important to keep the battery’s wires away from saltwater. Like the terminals, the wires may also cause discharge if they get into contact with water.

 

When Can a Marine Battery Harm You?

 

Many people wonder whether a wet marine battery is dangerous. Well, a wet boat battery cannot harm you because of its low voltage. A normal marine battery carries around 12 volts but can be a little higher or lower depending on its level of power. But, it is advisable not to touch the battery’s wires with damaged insulation as it may badly electrocute you.

Let’s take a look at some other situations where a marine battery can harm you.

 

When Your Skin Gets Into Contact With the Acid From the Battery

 

If your lead marine battery is submerged in saltwater, its acid may leak since it is lighter than water. The acid can severely burn your skin, which is another reason why you should keep your battery away from saltwater.  

What’s more, accidentally ingesting the acid indirectly through eating with contaminated hands may cause serious health problems such as kidney damage.

 

If You Switch on a Battery That Is Not Connected Properly

 

Another way a marine battery can harm you is when you switch it on without connecting it properly. A boat battery that is not hooked up correctly can explode when switched on.

 

What Can I Put on Battery Terminals to Prevent Corrosion?

 

Corrosion is among the main things that may affect the overall performance of your marine battery. For instance, if the terminals begin rusting, it may not be able to recharge fully. The battery may also discharge its power too quickly, making it less reliable.

Here are a few tips on how to prevent the terminals from corroding.

 

Keep Your Battery In a Suitable Temperature

 

Although most marine batteries are designed to last for quite a long time, they may rust if kept in very high temperatures. That is why it is always recommendable to remove your battery from the boat and allow it to cool down before using it again.

 

Always Fill It With Distilled Water

 

Many boat batteries need to be filled with distilled water to work properly. So, it is essential to check your battery’s level of distilled water regularly and replenish it when necessary. However, do not use any other type of water other than distilled water since it may affect your boat battery’s functionality.

 

Clean It With Water and Baking Soda

 

Another way to prevent a marine battery from corroding is by cleaning it regularly. Using baking soda to clean its terminals effectively removes the existing rust and prevents them from rusting further.

 

Apply Some Anti-Corrosion Gel on the Terminals Before Connecting Them to the Battery

 

There is a wide range of anti-corrosion gels that you can apply to your marine battery’s terminals before connecting them. These gels are designed to prevent the formation of corrosion deposits on your terminals. You can also use petroleum jelly if you cannot access the gel.

 

What Do You Do With a Boat Battery During Winter?

 

A marine battery can not only be damaged when it gets wet but also when it freezes. So it is crucial to know how to store it during winter.

The first thing to do is remove the battery from your boat during winter and store it in a warm, dry place. Leaving it in the boat may cause it to freeze. And when the battery freezes, the water inside will expand, leading to significant damages such as cracks and gas or acid leakages.

It is also vital not to leave your battery completely uncharged during this season as it may reduce its lifespan. That is why it is crucial to connect it to a trickle charger occasionally during the winter season.

 

How Long Can a Marine Battery Last?

 

Most marine batteries have an average lifespan of approximately 3 to 4 years, while some can last up to 6 years when kept in the right conditions. So it is crucial to know how to maintain your boat battery to make the most out of it.

 

Final Thoughts

 

While getting your boat battery wet is inevitable, keeping it dry is something you ought to do for it to last longer. If you have had your battery for a while, it might be necessary to have an expert examine it. Doing so will help you know its condition and whether or not it is time to replace it.

Related Read: The Best Reliable 2HP Outboard Motors

Bill
Bill

Bill is an ISA Sailing & Powerboating Instructor in Ireland. He writes about all things sailing.

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