How long does a jet ski battery last? It depends on several factors, such as the type of battery, frequency of use, maintenance, and storage conditions. Furthermore, the lifespan of your battery is determined by your charging habits (how long you charge and how often it is over-discharged).
Today we will explore what makes one jet ski battery last longer than the other, and how long jet ski batteries last in general. We will also explore efficient and useful ways that can help make your jet ski battery last longer.
How Long Should Jet Ski Batteries Last?
Generally, the typical lifespan of a jet ski battery is around 2-4 years. However, this can be extended with proper care and maintenance. Some jet ski batteries can last up to 5 or 6 years with regular maintenance and proper use. However, the above-mentioned lifespan is for batteries that are well-maintained and regularly charged. If you are leaving the battery inside your parked and idling jet ski, not properly charging your battery in the off-season, or you are incorrectly charging the battery, or leaving the jet ski exposed to rust, mold, and other environmental damages then you may see yourself needing a new battery in as little as one year.
How is Jet Ski Battery charged?
A jet ski battery has a charging system equipped with a stator. A stator is the stationary part of a rotary system, found in electric generators, electric motors, sirens, mud motors, or biological rotors. The rotating component of the engine generates energy which is then passed to and through the stator. A stator generates enough electricity to maintain a battery charge while you are skiing in the water. However, the energy generation stops as soon as you turn the engine off.
Why You Should Never Charge Your Jet Ski Battery with Your Car Battery
Since the jet ski does not have automatic parts as a car does (power steering, windows, locks, etc.), the electrical demand is much lower than that of the car. Hence, unlike car batteries the jet ski batteries have stators instead of AC (alternate current) generating engines.
How Does the Charging System of Your Battery Work?
A stator generates electricity by using electromagnetic coils. The entire charging system works with the help of four main components; the stator, an exciter, the charging coils, and the flywheel.
1. An exciter: it sends power to the spark plugs to start the engine.
2. The charging coils: these coils are connected to the battery and are used to transfer electric current. A small amount of charge is sent to the battery to maintain it when it is in use.
3. The Flywheel: This is a key component that is powered by the engine. It is a spinning metal disc consisting of a heavy metal rim covered in magnets. The magnets are used to store rotational energy as the flywheel spins. When the magnets rotate around the stator the mechanical energy is converted into electrical energy which then powers the battery of your jet ski.
How Often Should You Charge Your Jet Ski Battery?
A jet ski battery should be charged once a month to ensure your battery has a long life. This is the case when you are not using your jet ski for more than one month. A jet ski that is regularly driven charges its battery on its own. However, while charging your jet ski battery make sure that the charge is balanced and is maintained at the required level.
How to Tell if Your Jet Ski Battery is Overcharged?
Two ways can tell you about the charging status of your battery.
- This is the simpler way; a battery that has a bulge on any side or corner is overcharged. Using it in your jet ski is harmful not only for your jet ski but it can be seriously dangerous for you as well.
- Another way is to check the state of charge; for your convenience here is a table that can help you understand the voltage of your jet ski battery.
| State of Charge | Voltage Reading |
| 100% | 12.7 – 13.2 |
| 75% | 12.4 |
| 50% | 12.1 |
| 25% | 11.7 |
| Discharged | 0 – 11.6 |
Step-by-Step Guide to Charge Your Jet Ski Battery Properly
A jet ski battery should be charged in a simple standard way. While all jet skis are different, the basic battery charging system of all jet skis is similar. Here is a simple step-by-step guide for charging your jet ski battery. In case you are not sure about the charging system of your jet ski and you want to be extra careful, we recommend you follow the service manual provided by the manufacturer of your jet ski.
- Locate the battery in your jet ski and remove it. Place the battery on a solid, level surface away from inflammable objects.
- Once you have removed the battery give it a thorough check; your battery should not have any cracks, bulges, leaks, discoloration, or corrosion. Broken or loose terminals are dangerous and can cause a short circuit, which in turn can cause an explosion. Cracks, splits, and holes will not cause a battery to stop working, but for safety concerns, they need to be examined.
- For corrosion rub the battery terminals with a mixture of 1 Tablespoon of baking soda and 1 Cup of water and scrub with an old toothbrush.
- Connect your battery charger to the battery. Red (+) from the charger to Red (+) on the battery, Black (-) from the charger to Black (-) on the battery.
- Turn on the charger. An automatic charger will detect the charging mode to use and shut off when the battery is fully charged.
- Remove the cables from the battery in reverse order. Black (-) first, then Red (+), and reinstall the battery in your jet ski connecting the Red (+) cable first, then the Black (-).
How to Take Care of Your Jet Ski Battery
With some care and proper maintenance, you can make your jet ski battery last longer. Here are some tips on taking care of your jet ski battery.
- If you have a completely dead battery, remove the battery and charge it with an automatic charger as detailed above.
- In case of a completely dead battery, never attempt to jump-start the battery with your car battery or even a jump pack. This can cause extensive damage to your jet ski’s electrical system.
- It is recommended to use a battery tender or trickle charger to keep the battery fully charged when it’s not in use for extended periods of time.
- Storing the battery in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures can help prolong its life. The same applies to the jet ski. Just parking your jet ski on a deck is not enough; it is recommended to cover a parked jet ski with a dry weather-resistant jet ski cover.
- Regular inspections and cleaning of the battery terminals can also help prevent corrosion and ensure the proper functioning of the battery.
The lifespan of your jet ski battery depends on how well you take care of it. While environmental factors and time cause the battery to drain and complete its life in two to three years; other factors such as charging the battery on time and keeping it stored in a cool dry place, can prolong the life of your jet ski battery.
