Have you ever wondered if a car battery can operate a boat? That's normal if you're new to boating. After all, they are less expensive than marine batteries. And, if you judge by their appearance, they look alike.

But having the same look is not enough. The characteristics of a marine battery differ from that of a car battery. In this article, you will learn the differences between a marine battery and a car battery. Also, you will find out if you can use one in place of the other.

Knowing the Difference between Marine and Car Battery

A lot of differences exist between a marine battery and a car battery. But first, we'll learn about the types of batteries.

The Types of Batteries

There are two types of batteries: marine batteries and car batteries.

Marine Batteries Types

As the name suggests, marine batteries power boats and other vessels that move on water. Depending on the type of boat you have, you can use the following types of marine batteries.

Starting Batteries

The major purpose of a starting battery is to start the boat. They achieve that by delivering high-cranking amps and cold-cranking amps. Thus, they are also known as marine cranking batteries. They are immediately recharged by the alternator after they have started the engine.

Deep Cycle Batteries

You can not steer a boat with a starting battery alone. You need another type of marine battery known as the deep cycle battery. Deep cycle batteries can withstand deep discharges and recharge without damage. They also allow a boat to run for a sustained period of time.

In addition, they produce energy to operate trollers, fish finders, lights, and radios. These appliances require a steady power supply, which is not obtainable with starting batteries.

Dual-Purpose Batteries

A dual purpose battery has the functionality of a starter battery and a deep cycle battery in one. They jumpstart the engine and provide sustained energy to steer the boat.

Car Batteries Types

Car batteries are also known as automotive batteries. They start the engines of cars. Unlike the dual purpose batteries and deep cycle batteries, the job of a car battery is to start the car. Afterward, it recharges while the car is in motion and stores the energy for a later period.

The various types of car batteries available include:

Lead-Acid Batteries

Are the most prevalent batteries. They are also known as wet cell batteries because they contain electrolytes. These electrolytes cause a reaction when in contact with the lead plates in the battery.

Lead-acid batteries are cost-effective, reliable and accessible. But, they require regular maintenance which can be a bundle of nerves.

Absorbent Glass Mat (AGM) Batteries

Absorbent glass mat batteries are the advanced form of lead-acid batteries. They contain electrolytes absorbed in glass mats. This configuration makes them spill-free, corrosion-free, and maintenance-free.

Lithium-ion Batteries (Emerging Trend)

Lithium-ion batteries have gained more popularity these days. They have more advantages than other types of car batteries. And that's because they are eco-friendly. They also provide high energy efficiency.

Construction and Features of Marine & Car Batteries

Marine batteries differ from car batteries in their construction and features. Let's look at the differences.

Construction and Features of Marine Batteries

Here are some boat battery designs based on application: 

Heavy-Duty Construction for Resilience in Harsh Marine Environments

Boats do not have the luxury of tarred, smooth roads. They move against strong winds and waves that can cause damage to batteries. Hence, marine batteries are built to resist corrosion, vibration, and shocks while moving on water.

Designed for Sustained Power Output over Extended Periods

In contrast with car batteries, marine batteries do not only start the boat. The boat needs energy to move over long distances on water. So, marine batteries provide sustained power output for that.

Higher Reserve Capacity for Longer Runtime

Reserve capacity is how long a battery can provide power at a specific load before the next charge. Marine batteries have higher reserve capacity than that of a car battery. Therefore, they are able to provide more sustained energy for longer runtime.

Construction and Features of Car Batteries

Below are some car battery designs based on application: 

Compact Design Optimized for Engine Starting

Car batteries produce short bursts of high currents required to start the engine of a car.

Cold-Cranking Amps (CCA) Rating for Reliable Performance in Cold Weather

Car batteries are designed to have a high CCA rating to enable them to start engines in cold weather.

Limited Deep Cycling Capability

Car batteries are not designed to handle deep cycling. So, regular deep cycling of car batteries reduces their lifespan.

Performance Comparison: Marine vs Car Battery

Marine batteries and car batteries can be compared based on their performance. The differences that exist are

Marine Battery Performance

Here is a breakdown of marine battery performance:

Deep Cycling Ability for Powering the Boat and Other Appliances

Marine batteries can discharge to very low percentages without damaging the battery. They often run until they are 80% discharged or more. But car batteries do not have the same capacity.

Marine batteries have to move the vessel and power appliances on the ship or boat. So, they have a slower discharge rate that provides consistent power supply.

Slower Discharge Rate for Consistent Power Delivery

Marine batteries discharge at a slow rate. This is because they have to provide constant energy throughout the ride. And they also power appliances on the boat. So, without this feature, movement on water would be a hassle.

Suitable for Use in Recreational Vehicles and Boats

The design of recreational boats emphasizes aesthetics. Hence, they will need more electronics and will be better run by a marine battery than a car battery.

Car Battery Performance

Below, we evaluate car batteries:

High Cold Cranking Amps for Quick Starts in All Weather Conditions

Car batteries, unlike marine batteries, have high cold cranking amperes. That makes starting a car engine during winter possible. It is needless to start a boat on frozen water, so marine batteries do not have this capacity.

Shorter Lifespan Under Constant Deep Cycling

Car batteries are unable to undergo deep cycling. They usually discharge little when in use, after which they are recharged. So, exposure to constant deep discharges is not advised for battery health and lifespan.

Designed for Starting Engines in Vehicles

The primary function of car batteries is to start the engine of the vehicle. They are not required to power appliances like marine batteries.

Applications and Suitability: Marine vs Car Battery

Another area where marine batteries are different from car batteries is in their uses.

Marine Battery Applications

Marine batteries have these applications: 

• Marine batteries power electronics in boats and yachts Marine batteries are the best for use in recreational vehicles. They are also useful in off-grid cabins. Marine batteries are not the best option for vehicle engines starting. This is because of their lower cold cranking amps.

• Marine batteries are suitable for use in recreational vehicles and off-grid cabins. 
• Marine batteries are not the best option for vehicle engine starting. This is because they have lower cold cranking amps(CCA). So they can't start cars during winter.

Car Battery Applications

Car batteries have these applications:

• Car batteries are used to start and move automotive engines. 
• Car batteries are short of the required energy to power marine applications. 
• It can serve as a backup power source in emergency situations. But this only applies to boats with less electronic devices.

Care and Maintenance of Marine Batteries

Follow these steps to maintain your marine battery:

Regular Recharging to Prevent Sulfation

Recharging your battery is essential to lengthen the lifespan of your battery. Make sure the batteries are always charged. Use a voltmeter to check the voltage of the battery. When possible, do not allow the battery to go below 50%. Also, ensure to use the right charger.

Avoid overcharging, as that can ruin the battery and reduce its lifespan.

Periodic Inspection and Cleaning of Terminals and Connections

Clean the batteries often to remove dust and moisture. Inspect the connections to make sure they are clean and well organized.

Storing in a Cool, Dry Place During Off-Season

When not in use, remove the battery from the vessel and store in a cool dry place. Make sure it is not exposed to freezing temperatures. It should also be accessible for periodic charges.

Care and Maintenance of Car Batteries

Follow these steps to maintain your car battery:

Check and Top-up Electrolyte Levels (for Flooded Lead-Acid Batteries)

Always check your battery electrolyte level to enhance performance and longevity. If you can see the battery plates, it means that you need to add more water. But if you find the plates covered, then the electrolyte level is okay. Make sure you use distilled water, as tap water can precipitate chemical reactions.

Ensuring Tight Connections and Prevent Corrosion

Always check your battery connections and make sure they are tight. Clean the terminals often using a wire brush or a battery terminal cleaning tool. This will remove any corrosion on your battery.

If the corrosion is too stubborn, you can use a solution of baking soda and water to scrub the terminals.

Testing Battery Health with a Multimeter or Battery Tester

Like visiting the hospital for routine tests, your car battery needs routine tests. These tests ensure that your battery is healthy.

There are three methods of testing your battery. The first method is by visual inspection. The second method is by testing the battery’s voltage with a multimeter. Finally, you can test a battery by using a battery tester.

You shouldn't wait till your battery is bad before testing. You can test your battery's health today.

Conclusion

Marine batteries and car batteries differ in several ways. Car batteries only start the engine. Meanwhile, marine batteries provide enough energy to move the boat through long distances. Plus, they power onboard electronics.

Marine batteries can oppose deep cycling while car batteries can't. Also, the reserve capacity of marine batteries is three times that of car batteries.

So, using car batteries for vessels and vice versa isn't a good option. It will only damage the battery with time. You can order these battery types from GoldenMate battery.