Golf carts are necessary for transporting clubs and other gear around a large course, and they have various other practical uses. They are handy for navigating large areas such as college campuses or wedding venues, and for others, they are simply enjoyable to ride.
But what occurs when the golf cart no longer seems to have the same level of power? Perhaps you find yourself needing to charge the golf cart more frequently or experiencing a decrease in travel distance before needing to recharge. Identifying signs that indicate the golf cart battery needs replacement can be quite beneficial.
How Long Does a Golf Cart Battery Last?
Several factors influence the lifespan of a golf cart battery, such as the battery type, usage frequency, charging habits, and maintenance. Golf cart batteries typically have a lifespan of two to five years for lead-acid batteries and ten to 20 years for lithium-ion batteries. Individual golf carts typically have a longer lifespan of six to ten years, while fleet vehicles used by multiple individuals daily tend to wear out faster. These fleet vehicles typically require a battery replacement every four to six years.
Most Common Types of Golf Cart Batteries
Various golf cart batteries have different advantages and disadvantages. You have the option to choose between 6-volt, 8-volt, or 12-volt golf cart batteries to create a 36- or 48-volt system. Using 6-volt golf cart batteries can enhance the run time, but you may require additional batteries to fulfill the golf cart’s requirements. This can lead to increased weight and potentially make the installation process more challenging.
Aside from selecting the appropriate power capacity, you have the option of choosing from various types of golf cart batteries, including lead-acid, absorbed glass mat (AGM), gel lead-acid, or lithium-ion batteries. These batteries offer various advantages, with some excelling in extreme weather conditions and others lasting longer.
Lead-Acid Golf Cart Batteries
Lead-acid batteries are a popular choice for powering golf carts. These traditional batteries are not only cost-effective but also simple to take care of. However, their lifespan is usually shorter compared to more advanced golf cart battery types, lasting around two to five years. Lead-acid batteries for golf carts are heavy, which is not ideal for a small vehicle.
AGM Golf Cart Batteries
AGM batteries contain an absorbable electrolyte and fiberglass plates that enable faster charging compared to traditional lead-acid batteries. They also provide protection against leaks that can damage the battery and reduce its lifespan. These batteries are low maintenance and can last for six to seven years. One downside is their higher cost, which can significantly increase expenses when maintaining a fleet of golf carts.
Lithium-Ion Golf Cart Batteries
Compact and light, lithium-ion golf cart batteries may cost more initially but can lead to greater savings over time. These batteries have a reputation for long-lasting performance, often lasting more than 10 years and up to 20 years with proper maintenance.
Lithium-ion batteries are low maintenance as they do not require water addition. Self-discharging can be a problem with traditional golf cart batteries, but lithium-ion batteries have a minimal self-discharge rate, enabling them to remain unused for extended periods without losing power.
Gel Lead-Acid Golf Cart Batteries
As the name suggests, a gel lead-acid battery utilizes a gel to hold the electrolyte in place within the battery. Electrons move easily through the gel between plates, ensuring a secure seal and requiring little upkeep. This design also assists this specific golf cart battery in performing well in extreme temperatures, especially cold weather that can reduce the lifespan of many golf cart batteries. These batteries do not provide the fast charging capabilities of AGMs.
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How to Make Golf Cart Batteries Last Longer?
1. Use the Right Charger
Make sure to always adhere to the manufacturer’s recommendations regarding the most suitable charger for your battery. We recommend using a 3-phase charger to ensure your battery lasts longer and operates more efficiently. Make sure to fully charge your battery after every use.
2. Maintain Battery Fluid Levels
Your battery requires water. But it has to be a specific type of water. If the fluid levels fall below the plates or are too high, it may result in battery damage or acid leaks. It’s safe to say that neither of those situations is perfect. Start by taking off the caps from the battery cells, typically made of plastic and located on top of each cell’s reservoir. Ensure the fluid level is adequate. Make sure there is sufficient fluid to completely cover the battery. Use only distilled water, not spring or tap water.
3. Reduce the Risk of Corrosion
While your battery is long-lasting, it can still be affected by the elements. Metal connections and posts may corrode with time, which can shorten the battery’s lifespan. It’s important to always keep your battery stored or covered in a temperature-controlled, dry area whenever you can.
4. Trickle Charge During Long Periods
Whether it’s the ‘offseason’ or if you don’t intend to use your cart for a while, letting your battery sit idle for extended periods can greatly decrease its lifespan. Fortunately, the trickle charge provides a simple solution. Using the trickle charge setting on your charger helps preserve the battery’s power and health during periods of inactivity.
Final Words
Golf cart batteries have a lifespan of two to five years for lead-acid batteries and ten to 20 years for lithium-ion batteries. They can be used in individual carts or fleet vehicles, with fleet vehicles requiring replacement every four to six years. Common types of batteries include lead-acid, absorbed glass mat (AGM), gel lead-acid, and lithium-ion. Lead-acid batteries are cost-effective and easy to maintain, while AGM batteries offer faster charging and protection against leaks.
Lithium-ion batteries are compact and lightweight, with a minimal self-discharge rate. Gel lead-acid batteries are designed for extreme weather conditions and require little upkeep. To prolong battery life, use the right charger, maintain proper fluid levels, reduce corrosion risk, and use trickle charge during long periods.
