How Long Do Golf Cart Batteries Last?

Golf carts have become increasingly popular not just on the course, but also for neighborhoods, retirement communities, and even some urban areas. A key component that keeps these electric vehicles running is the golf cart battery.

How Long Golf Cart Battery Last?

Golf cart batteries to last 4-6 years with proper maintenance and normal usage. However, several factors can impact the lifespan of a golf cart battery. The lifespan of golf cart batteries can vary depending on several factors such as usage, maintenance, and the type of battery.

When to Replace Golf Cart Batteries

Look for these signs that your golf cart batteries need replacement:

• Decreased range between charges
• Batteries won't fully charge
• Excessive corrosion buildup on terminals
• Batteries are over 5 years old
• One or more batteries are bulging or leaking

Replacing weak batteries promptly is important, as a single underperforming battery can drag down the whole set. This uneven discharge and recharging leads to faster degradation of the remaining good batteries.

Battery Type

The two main types of golf cart batteries are lead-acid and lithium-ion. Traditional lead-acid batteries, which use a lead plate and acid electrolyte design, are more affordable but have a shorter lifespan of around 4-5 years with regular use.

Lithium-ion batteries, on the other hand, are more expensive upfront but can last 5-8 years or even longer. They are also lighter in weight and can hold a charge better over time compared to lead-acid batteries.

Usage and Maintenance

How you use and maintain your golf cart batteries is crucial for maximizing their lifespan. Batteries that are frequently deep cycled (fully discharged and recharged) will degrade faster than those that are lightly used. Extreme temperatures can also take a toll - heat causes batteries to overcharge while cold slows the chemical reaction.

Proper charging after each use is essential. Undercharging allows sulfation buildup which damages the plates, while overcharging causes excess gassing and water loss. It's best to use an automatic smart charger designed for your battery type.

Regularly checking and topping up water levels in flooded lead-acid batteries is also important, as low water levels can ruin the batteries.

Cost of Replacement in Calgary

The cost of replacement in Calgary for golf cart batteries can range from $800 to $1500 for a set of new lead-acid batteries installed. Lithium-ion battery packs are more expensive, typically costing between $2000 and $3000 or more.

Many golf cart owners opt to replace just a few batteries at a time to spread out the cost. It is recommended to replace all batteries in the set at once for best performance.

We at Batteries Store are a top supplier of Interstate golf cart batteries and other battery products in Calgary. Our knowledgeable staff can help you select the right batteries and provide maintenance tips for a long life.

Also read: Average Cost to Replace Golf Cart Batteries in Calgary

Extending Battery Life

To get the most life out of your golf cart batteries, follow these tips:

• Avoid leaving batteries discharged for long periods
• Charge after every use until fully charged
• Use a smart charger matched to your battery type
• Keep batteries clean and terminals tight
• Check water levels monthly and refill as needed
• Rotate batteries periodically to ensure even discharge
• Store batteries charged in a cool, dry place during winter

With proper care, you can expect to get 4-6 years of service from a quality set of golf cart batteries. But upgrading to lithium-ion could extend that to 5-8 years or more while providing better performance.

When replacement time does come, your local Calgary battery experts at Batteries Store can get you affordable, long-lasting batteries from top brands like Interstate to keep you driving on and off the course.

Additional Benefits of Lithium Batteries

While more expensive upfront, lithium-ion golf cart batteries offer several advantages over traditional lead-acid:

• Lighter weight for better range and efficiency
• No water maintenance required
• Can be discharged further without damage
• Faster charging times
• More usable capacity over their lifespan
• More power for better acceleration

As lithium technology continues improving and costs come down, these advanced batteries are becoming an increasingly popular choice for golf carts.

When replacing your old golf cart batteries, be sure to dispose of them properly through a recycling program. Lead-acid batteries contain toxic materials that must be handled carefully.

Many battery retailers and municipal recycling centers accept used lead-acid batteries for proper recycling. Lithium batteries also require special disposal through approved e-waste recyclers.

With the right Golf cart batteries from Batteries Store in Calgary combined with conscientious maintenance, you can keep your golf cart running smoothly for years to come while minimizing operating costs.

Contact us today for Golf cart battery needs!