How often should I fill up my lead-acid golf cart batteries with water?

How Often to Add Water:

• Check Every 30 Days: It’s generally recommended to check your lead-acid golf cart batteries every 30 days, especially if you’re using the cart frequently.
• After Charging: Always check the water level after the batteries are fully charged. The charging process can cause the water level to fluctuate, so it’s best to check once the charge is complete and the batteries have cooled down.

When to Add Water:

• Only add water if the water level is below the plates or the top of the plates inside the battery cells. You don’t want to overfill, as it can cause overflow when the battery is charging.
• Don’t Overfill: Only fill the battery cells with distilled water (tap water may contain minerals that can damage the battery). Leave about 1/4 inch of space from the top of the cell to prevent spillage.

Signs You Might Need Water Sooner:

• Shorter Battery Life: If you notice your cart’s battery isn’t holding a charge as long as usual, it could be due to low water levels.
• Acid on Terminals: If you see acid buildup around the battery terminals, that can be a sign of overcharging or low water levels.

General Tips:

• Use Distilled Water: Always use distilled water, as regular tap water contains minerals that can harm your battery.
• Avoid Filling During Charging: Never add water while the battery is charging or when the battery is hot. Wait until it has cooled down.
• Clean Battery Terminals: Keep your battery terminals clean and free from corrosion to ensure good contact and efficient charging.

Keeping up with the water levels will help prolong your battery’s life and maintain performance.