Golf carts have become popular because they’re good for the environment, cost less to run, and are quiet. The most important part of a golf cart is its batteries, which power it. Taking care of the batteries is crucial for the cart’s performance. Whether you need new deep-cycle batteries or want to switch to lithium-ion, we’ll guide you through everything you need to know.
Car and golf cart batteries are similar but have different needs and standards. Trying to use car batteries in a golf cart isn’t a smart idea. Research shows that it needs to be safer, and it won’t work well.
Maintenance of your batteries is important because their type and health affect how well your cart works. When you’re buying new batteries, be careful. Different brands use different criteria. If you’re not careful, you might have batteries that don’t work in your cart.
We’ll talk about which brand of batteries are best, what types are available, the cost of new ones, and more. By the end, you’ll know much more about your golf cart’s power source, the best batteries, and how to keep them in good shape.
How To Determine What Batteries You Have and What Voltage
The first step is identifying the batteries that power your golf cart and their voltage. Follow these simple steps:
- Locate the Battery Compartment: It’s usually tucked away beneath the seat or in the rear of the cart.
- Check the Label: Each battery should have a label indicating its voltage (commonly 6V, 8V, or 12V).
- Count the Batteries: Multiply the number of batteries by their voltage to determine the total system voltage.
The most common golf cart voltage is 36V or 48V, depending on the configuration.
How Golf Cart Batteries Power Your Cart
Electric golf carts use energy stored in batteries to power the cart. Two crucial terms in understanding how these batteries work are voltage and amperage. Voltage allows electrons to flow, while amperage is the volume of electrons, similar to the river’s water.
Understanding amperage and voltage contributes to your safety and empowers you to optimize your golf cart’s performance. Even a high voltage doesn’t necessarily mean danger. Fast-flowing amps are less risky than an amps with a slow voltage. With this knowledge, you’re ready to explore how configuring batteries can affect the performance of your electric cart.
1. Connecting Batteries in Series
Increasing voltage is as simple as connecting batteries in series. This involves linking one battery’s negative terminal to another’s positive terminal. The voltage adds up as you create a chain of batteries. For instance, if you connect six 8V batteries in series, you get 6×8=48 Volts.
2. Connecting Batteries in Parallel
To increase amp-hours without changing voltage, you connect batteries in parallel. Here, the negative terminals of batteries connect, and the same is done with the positive terminals. This setup enhances the overall amp-hour capacity.
How They Work Together: Powering, Recharging, and Cruising
In a golf cart, series connections increase voltage, while parallel connections increase amp-hour capacity. These connections effectively power the cart by sending electricity to the motor through a controller, ensuring your cart moves forward smoothly.
When it’s time to recharge, plugging in the cart reverses the chemical reaction in the batteries, filling them with energy.
| The Takeaway: Series and parallel connections of golf cart batteries play a crucial role in determining voltage and amp-hour capacity, influencing how the cart performs on the course. |
What Are The Best Golf Cart Batteries Brands
Our Team tested these battery brands that give extra power to your Golf cart.
Here are some mentioned:
- Chins
- Trojan
- Power Star
- Mighty Max
- LiTime
1. Chins
Chins batteries are the best and most reliable option for any Golf cart. These batteries are the MVPs of the golf carts. With their durable design and reliable performance, Chins batteries are the go-to choice for many golf lovers. They offer a perfect combination of longevity and power.
Pros:
- Super long lifespan
- High Quality
- Environmentally friendly
Cons:
- None
2. Trojan
Trojan batteries are the most reliable option. They are heavy but boast impressive strength, ensuring that your golf cart can tackle those steep slopes and rugged terrains effortlessly.
Trojan batteries are known for their deep cycle technology, meaning they can easily handle the start-stop nature of golf carts. So, the Trojan is the best option when you need a battery that can go the distance.
Pros:
- Powerful performance
- High Versatile
- Reliable and solid
- High durable
Cons:
- Heavier compared to some other options
3. PowerStar
Powerstar is a battery brand that adds energy to your golf cart experience. Powerstar batteries are known for their high performance and quick recharging capabilities. A battery that lasts through your entire game and charges up for the next one in no time.
Powerstar is a battery brand that adds energy to your golf cart experience. Powerstar batteries are known for their high performance and quick recharging capabilities. A battery that lasts through your entire game and charges up for the next one in no time.
Pros:
- Lightweight
- Compact Size
- Quick Recharge
- High Quality
- Efficient Energy Conversion
Cons:
- May need more routine recharging
4. Mighty Max
Another great and suitable option is Mighty Max batteries for your golf cart. These batteries may be small in size but are excellent in performance. Mighty Max batteries are lightweight and easy to install, making them a favorite among golf cart owners who value simplicity without compromising power.
So, if you’re looking for a reliable battery that won’t weigh you down, the Mighty Max is the best way to go.
Pros:
- Durable and long-lasting
- Ease of Installation
- Widely Compatible
- Budget-friendly
Cons:
- None
5. LiTime
LiTime is the lithium-ion battery that is changing the whole game. While traditional batteries have their advantages, LiTime brings a touch of modern technology to the golf course.
These batteries are lighter, charge faster, and boast a longer lifespan than their counterparts. LiTime is the perfect choice for those looking to increase the power of their golf cart.
Pros:
- Advanced Lithium-Ion Technology
- Lightweight
- High Durable
- Fast Charging
- High Compactable
Cons:
- Higher upfront cost
A List Of “Don’t Do’s” For Golf Cart Batteries
What not to do to ensure your batteries have a long and healthy life, giving them the VIP treatment.
- Overcharging: Avoid leaving your golf cart plugged in for an extended period, as overcharging can damage the batteries.
- Deep Discharges: Running your batteries down to zero frequently can harm their lifespan. Charge them before they get too low.
- Mixing Battery Types: Stick to the same type and brand of batteries to maintain optimal performance.
The average lifespan of golf cart batteries is around 4-6 years, but proper care can extend it.
Conclusion
You now have a detailed guide to understanding and caring for your golf cart batteries. These little power packs may seem straightforward, but treating them right ensures that your golf cart will be your trusted companion on the miles for years to come.
Also, choosing wisely for custom build regarding high-quality golf cart batteries is essential. So, take a look at previous reviews of different battery brands.
Understanding the best options ensures that you get the batteries that match your needs and keep your golf cart performing at its best.
