Table of Contents
An extra battery on your boat is necessary to power your accessories, such as the GPS, lights, bilge pump, fish finder, speakers, etc. It will prevent you from draining your boat’s battery and leaving you stranded in the water.
This article explores the different types of batteries available, from traditional lead-acid to AGM and gel batteries to the newer and more efficient lithium iron phosphate (LiFePO4) models. We’ll also explain why LiFePO4 is the best choice for your boat accessories.
Now, let’s dive in so you can hit the water.
What Kind of Boat Accessories Need Power?
- GPS systems are crucial for navigation, especially on open water, where it can be easy to get lost if you lose sight of land. They need continuous power to function effectively, like what you can get from a solar generator.
- Fish finders show where the fish are and even provide additional information like water depth and the contours of the bottom. However, they will also need continuous power to function effectively.
- Lighting for the cabin and navigation is critical for boating at night. They will help you navigate and prevent you from hitting objects in the water or stumbling around on your boat in the dark.
- Bilge pumps are necessary to remove any water leaking in or washing onboard. These pumps also run on batteries.
- Entertainment like speakers, radios, tablets, and other devices also need power.
- Refrigerators keep food and beverages cold but require extra energy. However, you could get an EcoFlow GLACIER Portable Refrigerator that holds a charge for up to 40 hours so that you won’t need additional battery power on day or overnight trips.
- Kitchen appliances will require more electricity, especially those on a houseboat running blenders, toasters, coffee makers, etc.
What Type of Battery Should I Choose for My Boat?
Lead Acid
Traditional lead-acid models are still sometimes used since they are cheap and readily available. However, they come with significant drawbacks. They require regular maintenance, have a poor depth of discharge, and only last a few years before they need to be replaced.
Even using deep-cycle models with a better depth-of-discharge only ensures that if you run them out, you will still be able to use them, but they still require maintenance, are prone to leaking, and will only last a few years.
AGM
The absorbent glass mat or AGM model is an improved version of the lead-acid batteries. They do not have liquids that need maintenance and aren’t prone to leaking. They have a similar depth of discharge as the deep-cycle lead-acid models and last a bit longer, but they also typically weigh and cost more.
Gel Batteries
These are another lead-acid model using a gel electrolyte instead of the glass mat or liquid electrolytes. They perform better at extreme temperatures and are less likely to leak. However, they are even more expensive than AGM and charge more slowly.
LiFePO4
Newer lithium iron phosphate or LiFePO4 batteries are quickly becoming the top choice for marine use. They are maintenance-free, contain no liquids to maintain or spill, and have a better charge density, making them much lighter. They can also be discharged to 100%, allowing you to use your total capacity without ruining your battery.
Finally, they last 10-15 years or even longer. The only drawback is that they typically cost a bit more. However, when you factor in that you may need to replace those other models 3-10 times before you need to replace these once, that minor upfront cost will save you enormously in the long run.
Solar generators for boats are the most efficient option since they are lightweight and don’t require extra fuel to keep them running. Furthermore, EcoFlow’s Portable Power Stations use LiFePO4 technology. Here are a few choices to consider.
The EcoFlow RIVER 3 Portable Power Station is a great lightweight option, 30% smaller than the industry average for its 245Wh capacity. These are great for running a GPS, LED lights, a speaker, and other low-power devices.
If you still want lightweight and compact but need more power and a recharge option, the EcoFlow RIVER 2 Pro + 220W Solar Panel has a 768Wh capacity. However, with its 220W solar input, you can produce up to 1800Wh daily for higher energy needs or longer outings.
If you need a larger capacity to run bilge pumps or refrigerators, the EcoFlow DELTA 3 has 1800W of AC output and 3600W X-boost surge power for those starting watts, making them ideal for higher energy needs.
If you need even more capacity, the EcoFlow DELTA 2 + 220W Solar Panel has 2400W of continuous output and 3400W of surge power. You can also recharge it during the day with your 220W solar panel.
Why Is a Lithium (LiFePO4) Boat Battery the Best Choice?
Lightweight
Since they have a better charge density, they pack more power into a more compact and lighter-weight battery. It makes it easier to move on and off the boat when needed and reduces the weight on your boat, increasing your fuel efficiency.
Lifespan
Since they last as much as 10 times longer than any other marine battery, you won’t have to replace them constantly.
Safety and Environment
Not only does their longer lifespan keep more money in your pocket, but it is also better for the environment since you will have to use 3-10 lead-acid batteries before replacing these once. Not only that, but they contain fewer harmful chemicals than lead-acid models and are perfectly safe for use inside the cabin.
Energy Efficiency and Depth of Discharge
Since they can be discharged to 100% without damaging the battery, you can use more of your battery’s capacity. It’ll keep your devices running longer and help extend the lifespan of your battery. As an added bonus, they also recharge faster, so you can get back on the water quickly!
Maintenance-Free
LiFePO4 requires no maintenance, saving you time and making for a more convenient boating experience.
Final Thoughts
For reliable, efficient power on the water, LiFePO4 batteries outperform other options by a wide margin. Their long lifespan, lightweight design, high energy efficiency, and zero maintenance make them the top choice for marine use. Which one you choose will depend on your energy needs.
The EcoFlow RIVER 3 Portable Power Station is a great lightweight option for those with lower energy needs. For those with high power needs on large boats and houseboats, nothing beats the EcoFlow DELTA 2 + 220W Solar Panel, which offers plenty of power and a portable solar panel for easy recharging on the water.