What Happens If Golf Cart Batteries Run Out Of Water? (how to refill them)

There is no good reason to allow golf cart batteries to run out of water. Instead, you should check their water levels regularly and refill them as needed.

In this post, we’ll explain what happens if golf cart batteries have no water. Later on, we’ll also discuss how to add water to them.

Let’s begin by looking at why your golf cart batteries need water.

Why do golf cart batteries need water?

Water helps regulate the battery’s temperature and prevent overheating. It also serves to keep the battery’s lead plates covered, which prevents corrosion and prolongs the life of the battery.

It’s wise to check golf cart batteries’ water level regularly. Neglecting to add water can decrease battery performance and shorten lifespan.

So, the bottom line is, water is a crucial component for keeping your golf cart batteries happy and healthy!

How do I know if My golf cart battery needs water?

There is an easy way to check your golf cart battery’s water level. You can tell if your battery needs water by looking at the water level in each cell. Usually, golf cart batteries have six cells, each with a removable cap on top.

• The first thing you need to do is find the filling caps. Take them off to see what’s inside. Now, the key is to examine each cell carefully.
• Ideally, the water level should be above the top of the lead plates. If the water level is below that, your battery needs water.
• Occasionally, the water caps can be tricky to reach, so you might want to remove the battery first. If you do this, remember to note the battery’s original position.
• After checking the water level, screw the caps back on and put the battery back. It is an easy task, but you can always ask a mechanic for help if you’re unsure.

It’s a smart idea to check the water level in your golf cart battery at least once a month. It ensures your battery stays hydrated.

Additionally, you should check the battery meter to see how much power is left in the battery. If it’s not giving you the right readings, then you should reset your golf cart battery meter.

What happens if golf cart batteries run out of water?

When golf cart batteries run out of water, the lead plates inside the battery can become exposed. This causes corrosion to the lead plates, which reduces battery life and performance.

Since the plates are exposed to air, it can also lead to sulfation. It happens when sulfur crystals form on the plates, reducing the battery’s ability to hold a charge.

Additionally, gas can build up inside the battery. Eventually, this can lead to it overheating and even exploding.

Basically, if your golf cart battery’s water level goes too low, it can affect its performance. The battery may not hold a charge as well, or discharge faster than normal.

In extreme cases, a dried-out battery may even become completely dead and will no longer be able to hold a charge at all. Then there will be no other option but to replace your golf cart batteries.

So, if you maintain the right water level, then you need not worry about how long do golf cart batteries last.

How to add water to golf cart batteries?

You don’t have to be an expert to add water to your golf cart batteries. Here’s how to do it:

1. Open the filling caps: Firstly, locate the filling caps on the top of the battery and remove them. Be careful. Don’t spill any electrolyte solution.
2. Check the water level: Look inside each battery cell and check the water level. It should be above the top of the lead plates inside the cell.
3. Add distilled water: If the water level is low, carefully pour distilled water into each cell. Make sure it reaches the proper level. While doing so, avoid using tap water or other types of water. Because they may contain minerals that can damage the battery.
4. Attach the caps: Once you’ve added enough water, screw the caps back on securely.
5. Reposition the battery: What if you removed the battery to add water? Simply put it back in its original position and secure it properly.

Keep your golf cart batteries hydrated so they perform at their best! So, water your golf cart batteries just like your plants!

What are the types of golf cart batteries?

A golf cart battery can be lead-acid or lithium-ion.

Traditionally, golf carts have used lead-acid batteries. Their reliability, long life, and low cost make them great.

The lithium-ion batteries in golf carts are a newer technology. These batteries are lighter, more compact, and last longer than lead-acid batteries. But they’re also more expensive.

Everything comes down to personal preference and budget. You’ll get the job done no matter which battery you choose.

What is the function of water in golf cart batteries?

A golf cart battery needs water to keep its lead plates covered and prevent corrosion. Water also acts as a coolant. Therefore, water prevents overheating of the battery by regulating its temperature.

In a flooded lead-acid battery, the lead plates are submerged in an electrolyte solution of water and sulfuric acid. This solution conducts electricity and allows the battery to store and release energy as needed.

The water in the electrolyte solution will evaporate eventually. So, check the water level and add water as needed.

When the water level in the battery gets too low, the lead plates can become exposed. It can cause corrosion and damage. In the end, this can reduce battery life and efficiency.

So, add the right amount of water when needed – never overfill your golf cart battery.

How to repair a dried-out golf cart battery?

Are you having trouble with a dried-out golf cart battery? You can try repairing it by following these steps:

1. Clean the battery terminals: Get rid of any corrosion on the battery terminals with a wire brush or sandpaper.
2. Check the electrolyte level: Open the battery cap. Then, check the level of the electrolyte solution inside. If the solution is low, add distilled water until the plates are covered but not overflowing.
3. Charge the battery: Use a battery charger to charge the battery until it reaches full charge. This can take several hours or overnight.
4. Test the battery: After charging, use a voltmeter to test the battery voltage. If the voltage is still low, the battery may be beyond repair. If that’s the case, you’ll have to replace it.

Keep in mind that these steps are for flooded lead-acid golf cart batteries. If you have a sealed lead-acid battery, you should not open it or add water. Because sealed batteries are maintenance-free and cannot be repaired.

If you’re uncomfortable working with batteries or if the battery is beyond repair, it’s wise to have a professional handle the repair or replacement. Improper battery handling can be dangerous and harm you or damage the battery.

But if you know how to trick golf cart charger to charge dead batteries, you can try it yourself. Of course after taking proper precautions.

Frequently Asked Questions About putting water in golf cart batteries

Now you know what happens if golf cart batteries run out of water. Is there anything else you want to know?

Let’s take a look at some of the most common questions people ask online.

What happens if there is no water in golf cart batteries?

If there is no water in your golf cart batteries, they can become damaged and stop functioning properly.

Battery plates can corrode and deteriorate over time without water, exposing them to air. As a result, your battery may run less efficiently, last less, and even die.

Plus, if you run the battery without enough water, it can overheat and catch fire. To put it simply, you need enough water in your golf cart batteries to run safely.

What happens if you let your golf cart batteries go dry?

If you let your golf cart batteries go completely dry, the battery plates inside can become permanently damaged or even destroyed.

The lead plates in the battery need water to function properly, and without them, they can overheat and warp or crack. Eventually, the battery will lose its charge capacity, meaning it won’t hold a charge as long.

In severe cases, letting your golf cart batteries go dry can cause irreversible damage, rendering the battery useless and needing replacement.

Make sure you check and maintain the water levels in your golf cart batteries regularly.

How often do I need to add water to my golf cart batteries?

The frequency of adding water to golf cart batteries depends on factors such as usage, temperature, and battery age.

As a general rule of thumb, we recommend you check the water level in your golf cart battery once a month, or every 10 charging cycles.

Add distilled water to the battery if the water level is low. Just remember not to overfill the battery with water!

How far to fill golf cart batteries with water?

When adding water to your golf cart batteries, you should only fill them to just above the top of the battery plates.

Be careful while doing so. Because overfilling the battery with water can cause it to spill out and damage the battery and surrounding areas. This can also lead to electrolyte leakage.

Can you put bottled water in golf cart batteries?

While you technically can put bottled water in your golf cart batteries, we don’t recommend it.

Often, bottled water has minerals and impurities that build up on the battery plates.

Distilled water is best for golf cart batteries because it’s free of impurities and minerals that can harm them.

So instead of using bottled water as a quick fix, use distilled water for the best results and to keep your golf cart batteries going.

Can I put tap water in my golf cart batteries?

No, you should never put tap water in your golf cart batteries. The battery plates can accumulate minerals and impurities from them.

Also, tap water can contain chlorine and other chemicals that react with the battery acid. This causes harmful gases to be released and could damage the battery.

Distilled water is best since it’s free of impurities and minerals and specifically designed for lead-acid batteries.

Should I charge golf cart batteries after adding water?

It is generally recommended to charge your golf cart batteries after adding water.

The electrolyte levels and specific gravity of the battery can change when you add water, so it affects how it charges and discharges.

Charging the battery after adding water can help to evenly distribute the electrolyte solution and ensure the battery is functioning at its optimal level.

Before using your golf cart batteries again, make sure they’re fully charged after adding water.

Can dry golf cart batteries be recharged?

You might be able to recharge a golf cart battery if it’s completely dried out, but the chances are low.

Recharging a completely dry battery can be dangerous since it can overheat and explode.

You should get your golf cart battery checked by a pro if you suspect it’s dried out.

How do you revive a dry golf cart battery?

Reviving a dry golf cart battery can be dangerous and may not be effective.

If a golf cart battery has completely dried out, the plates inside the battery can become damaged. In addition, the acid concentration can become too high, causing irreversible damage.

Reviving a dead battery can be dangerous because it can overheat and explode.

A professional technician can tell you if your golf cart battery can be salvaged or if it needs to be replaced if it’s completely dried out.

Can you bring a dead golf cart battery back to life?

In most cases, a completely dead golf cart battery cannot be brought back to life. Some methods, however, can help revive a battery that still holds a charge but isn’t performing at its best.

One method is called equalization, which involves applying a higher voltage to the battery to help balance the charge of the individual cells. In this way, batteries will last longer and perform better.

In spite of this, it’s important to realize that reviving a dead battery can be hazardous and ineffective.

If a battery is completely discharged for a long time, the plates can become damaged. Depending on the situation, you might need to replace the battery.

The best course of action is to have a professional technician assess the battery.

Do all golf cart batteries need water?

Most golf cart batteries, particularly lead-acid batteries, require water to function properly.

But some newer golf cart batteries don’t even need water, like lithium-ion batteries.

You should check the manufacturer’s recommendations for your specific type of battery to find out if it needs water.

Final Thoughts on putting water in golf cart batteries

You now understand what happens if golf cart batteries run out of water and how to refill them. Just remember to use distilled water and don’t go overboard with hydration!

Your golf cart batteries will thank you with a smooth ride on the greens. Cheers!