Lithium batteries supply more power requirements and can use a huge capacity of appliances such as onboard systems, portable fridges, washing machines, etc. However, finding the right lithium marine batteries can be challenging. In this article, you’ll find out why lithium batteries are preferred now more than traditional lead-acid batteries.
The term Lithium Ion encompasses multiple chemistries having slightly different compositions. This results in variations of energy and power density, lifespan, cost, and safety. Common battery types are Lithium Cobalt Oxide (LCO), Lithium Manganese Oxide (LMO) and Lithium Iron Phosphate (LFP). Lithium Iron Phosphate is commonly considered the most stable, or safest of the Lithium-Ion chemistries. At West Marine, we view safety and reliability as the top priorities, which is why we recommend Lithium Iron Phosphate batteries for use on boats.
While marine batteries have morphed into a wide range of types, sizes and applications, most still rely on the same lead-acid chemistry invented more than 160 years ago. Today, however, a new battery technology based on lithium-iron-phosphate (LiFePO4) chemistry is poised to revolutionize electrical power delivery aboard saltwater fishing machines. Marine lithium battery offer amazing advantages over conventional lead-acid batteries, but there are also major caveats for boating anglers to keep in mind. Lithium technology requires new thinking when it comes to cost, installation, applications and charging. Let’s look at how these fit into the world of saltwater fishing.
These are only some of all the benefits of lithium marine batteries.
Weighs Less
Boat batteries / Absorbed Glass Mat or AGM batteries’ weight is reduced giving more space and control for equipment or for an additional stored battery capacity. They are much lighter than gel batteries which are twice the weight of a lithium battery. The weight reduction of deep cycle battery aids in increasing fuel efficiency and better performance making lithium battery a perfect accompaniment for off-road vehicles.
High Performance
Lithium deep cycle battery holds its voltage over the cycle, giving more power for marine applications than lead-acid battery which releases fewer Amps limiting the use of appliances. Lithium batteries provide more usable amp hours capacity available than lead-acid batteries before they are needed to recharge without worrying to damage the battery.
Convenient and Economical
Deep cycle batteries are maintenance-free, cost-effective and have longer-lasting power than lead-acid batteries. Lithium deep cycle batteries can still work and can hold out against cold weather or climate and are also the best fit during a camping trip.
Spend Less Time Charging
Fast charging than lead-acid batteries, which take a lot of time to be recharged. They retrieve more energy from solar panels as well because they charge more effectively than other batteries; therefore they are reliable and suitable as the perfect battery bank. In terms of a charger, not all makers of lithium marine batteries are in need of a lithium battery charger. They can be charged with any AGM or gel batteries charger.
Long Lifespan
Lithium marine batteries can be used and last longer than lead-acid batteries. A battery’s life is estimated through the number of cycles at a certain discharge. Deep cycle battery or cranking battery’s estimated usage is at the range of 5,000 cycles and more when used attentively, rather than lead-acid battery which only lasts for 500 to 1,000 cycles. In terms of reliable power and long life, you might go through three to four lead-acid batteries, the same time as using one lithium deep cycle battery.
Good for a Boat
Lithium deep cycle batteries are sealed, therefore no splash of water or moisture can harm them. Plus, they possess high battery life which can be used for marine applications and appliances namely the fish finder or trolling motor.
Battery Management System
Lithium deep cycle batteries have an internal battery management system (BMS), meaning the BMS will immediately shut down the battery if a dangerous or unsafe condition is identified in order to prevent any damage or thermal explosion. This would give you enough confidence in its reliability.Marine battery manufacturers make their marine batteries based on deep cycle batteries because they have thicker plates which make them efficient for large discharge of power for a longer time.
How Long Do Lithium-Ion Marine Batteries Last?
Lithium marine batteries will typically last 3,000-5,000 charge cycles. This usually translates to lithium batteries lasting ten years or longer.
How Expensive Are Lithium Marine Batteries?
Lithium marine batteries usually cost around $1,000 for a 100 Ah capacity battery. The upfront cost is significantly more than the lead-acid counterparts available, but the overall long-term cost is lower.More:In addition to being suitable for boat use, also used with lithium trolling motor battery
Can Lithium batteries benefit you?
How you use your boat will be one of the largest factors in determining if Lithium makes sense. We have found that boaters with heavy electrical load requirements are the ideal candidates for a Lithium battery system.
Examples of Lithium Battery Applications
Trolling motor batteries because Lithium allows the angler to fish longer
Cruisers who want to travel further and stay at a destination longer
Boats with large power devices like stereo amplifiers, gyros, and air conditioners
Generator alternative. The combination of an Inverter Charger and appropriately sized Lithium battery bank replaces the noise, hassle, and maintenance of a generator while giving the boater the same comforts of home
While Lithium may not be right for all boat applications, we hope this article has given you information to consider if Lithium is right for your next battery replacement.