How does a marine battery switch work?
When your boat is operating under engine, the alternator is used to charge your batteries. In boats without a battery isolator, it is a common practice for the output of the alternator to be led to the load side of the battery selector switch, which allows you to choose which bank you want to charge.
Are Blue Sea battery switches waterproof?
Blue Sea Systems m-Series battery switches are compact and waterproof and can be installed almost anywhere. The small footprint and three mounting options make installation easy. M-Series switches are ignition protected and can be located in the engine rooms of gasoline powered boats.
How does a dual battery switch work on a boat?
The boat is equipped with a Dual Circuit Plus battery switch (OFF-ON-COMBINE). The purpose of this switch is to isolate an engine battery from the house bank. When the switch is turned to ON, the engine battery is connected to the engine and the house bank is connected to the house loads.
Why does my boat have two batteries?
A boat typically has 2 or 3 batteries (or more) to serve as separate “house” and “starter” batteries. A designated starter battery (or dual-purpose) is used to start the boat’s engine. A deep-cycle battery (or more) and is used for all other battery operated needs when on the water.
Are battery switches waterproof?
This waterproof battery master switch is available in panel-mounted and easy-fit options for any setup. It comes with a removable control knob for added security and a rear insulating cover to guard against short circuits. The fully-enclosed, waterproof casing provides extra protection against corrosion.
Can I add a second battery to my boat?
If your boat came from the factory with only one battery, or with two batteries of inadequate size, consider installing a second battery bank. If you are installing a reserve starting battery, you can usually ensure enough amps of cranking power by duplicating the type and size of your original battery.
Why do boats have 2 batteries?
Why do we need Blue Sea Battery switches?
This requirement exists so the potentially destructive energy in the batteries can be isolated in the event of a fire. With involvement on the American Boating Yacht Council (ABYC) Electrical Component Project Committee, Blue Sea Systems is close to the source of standards for battery switches.
Who is blue sea systems and what do they do?
With involvement on the American Boating Yacht Council (ABYC) Electrical Component Project Committee, Blue Sea Systems is close to the source of standards for battery switches. The company’s participation in the process means quick response when standards and needs of boaters change.
Why do you need a battery switch on a boat?
Battery Switches – Blue Sea Systems Battery management is central to safe operation of a boat or vehicle. A battery switch is required by ABYC in every boat with a battery over 800 Cold Cranking Amps (CCA). This requirement exists so the potentially destructive energy in the batteries can be isolated in the event of a fire.
Why is battery management important on a boat?
Batteries are at the heart of the electrical systems found on any boat or vehicle. Proper battery management, including switching and charging, is essential for safe and reliable operation.