optimax gell batteries

[brine]

I am in the process of winterizing. i have a two battery setup with Optimax marine gell cells. The manufacturer says they can handle the cold weather. Anyone have evidence to the contrary? should I leave them in the boat as suggested? It is a lot of work to get them out.

 

[briannh1234]

Re: optimax gell batteries

I know that wet (lead-acid) batteries can stand the cold but only when fully charged. Discharged they can freeze and break the case.<br /><br />I'm not sure if the same advise would apply to a gell-cell.<br /><br />Optima batteries are real picky about being charged, despite claims to the contrary. Find a smart charger that good for all battery types including Optima, and charge both your batteries fully. In the spring charge them again.<br /><br />I usually disconnect the positive battery terminal for the winter to prevent any drain on the battery. Some people also charge it once a month, but what I do is connect a solar panel once it's fully charged.

 

[Paul Moir]

Re: optimax gell batteries

If we are talking Optima AGM batteries, which are totally different and superior to Gel Cells, they are completely immune from freeze damage.<br /><br />Follow brianh1234's advice and keep them topped up a couple times over the winter with a smart charger.

 

[DJ]

Re: optimax gell batteries

Gel cells are a fad, in my opinion. They are NOT for your average consumer.<br /><br />Unless you are willing to set up a charging program, to their spec's., you're wasting your money.

 

[brine]

Re: optimax gell batteries

the batteries are fully charged are isolated by a battery switch (knocks out the reds). Since I posted I checked with the manufacturer and found out they are ok with freezing. as far as them being a fad, they are the easiest batteries I have ever had to care for and I will let you know next season how they held up. thanks for the responses

 

[ZmOz]

Re: optimax gell batteries

Originally posted by DJ:<br /> Gel cells are a fad, in my opinion. They are NOT for your average consumer.<br /><br />Unless you are willing to set up a charging program, to their spec's., you're wasting your money.

As long as you know what you have is different than a normal battery, and you have the correct charger, sealed batteries of all types make everything else look like a half used AA battery. They're especially great in boats since they're much more vibration proof and can be mounted in any orientation.<br /><br />My sealed Odyssey batteries are designed for 400 cycles at 100% depth of discharge. 500 cycles at 80%. Plus they're smaller than a group 24 battery by a long shot, yet still provide over 1,200 cranking amps! I dare you to show me a "regular" battery that can do any of that!

 

[brine]

Re: optimax gell batteries

sounds great! where do you get odyssey batteries from?

 

[imported_bjs]

Re: optimax gell batteries

i have same batteries i leave them in my boat all winter but i do un hook them.a far as charging them they do require a minn.of 12 amps to be charged. not 2amps like water batts.i have 2 of them and yes they are pricey.but they are 6 yrs old.and still going strong.if you dont have a trolling motor is not a fishing boat.its a ski boat.