{"id":1317,"date":"2021-02-02T16:26:08","date_gmt":"2021-02-02T16:26:08","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/seatow.com\/blog\/dead-battery-heres-what-to-do\/"},"modified":"2023-04-07T18:52:56","modified_gmt":"2023-04-07T18:52:56","slug":"dead-battery-heres-what-to-do","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/seatow.com\/dead-battery-heres-what-to-do\/","title":{"rendered":"Dead Battery? Here’s What to Do"},"content":{"rendered":"

Many boaters know that dreaded sound of an engine trying to turn over with a dead battery. In fact, low voltage, or a dead battery, is a call that Sea Tow Captains frequently receive. So, what should you do if your battery won\u2019t start your engine? According to Captain Christian Orfanello of Sea Tow New Orleans, there are a few thoughts every boater should keep in mind when stranded with a dead battery.<\/p>\n

\u201cWe typically jumpstart over 50 boats during the summer months alone,\u201d Captain Christian said. \u201cBut we’re also able to talk boaters through a few simple steps that helped to get their boat up and running again without us leaving the dock.\u201d<\/p>\n

1. Check the engine cutoff switch<\/strong><\/h4>\n

If your boat won\u2019t start, Captain Christian recommends that you first check the engine cutoff switch. \u201cIt\u2019s not uncommon for the ECOS to become disconnected when there is a lot of activity on a boat that is anchored, especially if young kids are onboard,\u201d he said. \u201cIt\u2019s just a fact that kids like to sit in the captain\u2019s seat and play with things. We always ask the boater to first ensure that it’s properly connected before doing anything else.\u201d<\/p>\n

2. Check the Connections<\/strong><\/h4>\n

Next, check the connections. Ensure that all connections and the ground wire have a proper and tight connection and that there is no corrosion buildup on the battery. Captain Christian also says to touch the wires to make sure they aren\u2019t hot. \u201cIf the wires are hot there\u2019s likely a bigger problem somewhere and that could lead to other issues or even a fire. If this is the case, do not jump it, we tow it.\u201d<\/p>\n

3. Check the Voltage<\/strong><\/h4>\n

If possible, keep a small meter\/battery tester with you on the boat. This can help you determine if your battery is actually dead, has low voltage, or if something else is wrong. A battery is fully charged at a minimum of 12.8 volts with no load. However, due to onboard computers and other technology, it is completely normal for the full-charge voltage to be a bit lower. When a battery reaches no higher than 12.4 volts at full charge, it\u2019s ready to be replaced.<\/p>\n

4. Switch to a backup battery<\/strong><\/h4>\n

Some boats are also equipped with more than one battery and a battery switch. If one battery does not start, try switching to the backup battery, or the \u201cBOTH, ALL, or 1&2\u201d position to get the motor running again so you can make it back to shore.<\/p>\n

5. all else fails, Call sea tow<\/strong><\/h4>\n

Sea Tow members receive free jump starts as part of their covered services. If you’re ever in need of assistance, call our 24\/7 Customer Care Team.<\/p>\n

MEMBER BENEFITS BEYOND 24\/7 TOWING<\/h3>\n

As the premier leader in on-water boating assistance, Sea Tow members receive\u00a0the most comprehensive benefits<\/a>\u00a0available. Membership includes a full suite of on-water assistance services for every boat you own, rent lease or bareboat charter. Learn more about\u00a0our membership options<\/a>\u00a0today. To find the Sea Tow closest to you, use\u00a0our service locator<\/a>\u00a0or call our Customer Care Team at\u00a0800-4-SEATOW<\/a>.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

Many boaters know that dreaded sound of an engine trying to turn over with a dead battery. In fact, low […]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":8,"featured_media":11701,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"inline_featured_image":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[8],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-1317","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-boating-tips"],"acf":[],"yoast_head":"\nDead Battery? 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