Is it safe to always leave my golf cart plugged in?

by Dillon Winoker

Yes, it is generally safe to leave your golf cart plugged in, but there are a few important considerations depending on the type of battery your cart uses:

For Lead-Acid Batteries:

  • Safety Concerns: Modern golf carts and chargers have built-in protection mechanisms to prevent overcharging, but leaving the cart plugged in for long periods (like weeks or months) can still shorten the lifespan of the battery.
  • Overcharging: If left plugged in too long, the battery could overcharge, especially if the charger doesn’t automatically shut off or switch to a maintenance mode.
  • Storage: If you’re not using your golf cart for extended periods, it’s best to disconnect the charger and store the batteries at around 40-60% charge to prevent damage.

For Lithium Batteries:

  • Safe to Leave Plugged In: Lithium batteries are designed with advanced Battery Management Systems (BMS) that prevent overcharging. Once the battery is fully charged, the BMS typically stops the charging process, making it safe to leave plugged in.
  • Battery Health: Lithium batteries don’t have the same issues as lead-acid batteries when left plugged in. However, it’s still best practice to keep the battery at around 50-60% charge if the cart won’t be used for an extended period, as this helps maintain long-term battery health.

Best Practices for Both Types:

  1. Use a Smart Charger: Ensure you have a smart charger, which is designed to shut off automatically or switch to a maintenance mode once the battery reaches full charge.
  2. Regular Checks: Periodically check your charging system for proper operation, especially if leaving the cart plugged in for long periods.
  3. Avoid Extreme Temperatures: Both types of batteries should be stored in cool, dry environments to maintain their lifespan.

So, yes, it’s generally safe to leave your golf cart plugged in, especially with modern charging systems. Just make sure to follow best practices for maintenance and storage to keep your battery healthy!

Recommended Products:

Chargers

https://winniesgolfcarts.com/collections/accessories/chargers#MainContent

Leave a comment

Back to The Rollin' Repair Shop