One Batt Only-Expected Life

[dgax65]

I think that is more important with NiCad batteries. They (especially older models) develop a memory if not put through a full discharge/charge cycle. Sealed lead acid batteries last longer if NOT fully discharged. It is best to keep them on a trickle charger when not in use. SLA won't develop a memory like NiCads.

[lamb]

Originally Posted by dgax65

I think that is more important with NiCad batteries. They (especially older models) develop a memory if not put through a full discharge/charge cycle. Sealed lead acid batteries last longer if NOT fully discharged. It is best to keep them on a trickle charger when not in use. SLA won't develop a memory like NiCads.

Ditto on that Doug. I learned the hard way.

The lead acid batteries we're commonly using to power bait tank & fish finder should be re-charged regardless of how much juice there's left in them. Their capacity is slowly shrinking over time though, a normal thing. I usually loose connectors to the corrosion before the battery life shortens beyond what would bother me, so I end up replacing them.

NiCad batteries are a different story - they should be completely discharged before re-charging to avoid developing "memory" and shortening the battery life. NiCad type batteries are often power the hand held VHF radios we're using.

You should be fine with a single 7Ah - 8 Ah battery, especially if your bait tank is on the timer switch. It is a good idea to always have a spare.