If you reside near a golf course and want a personal golf cart, maintenance is essential, with batteries being a significant expense. Commonly used golf cart batteries are 8-volt and 12-volt, but thorough research on proper care and maintenance is necessary for any equipment in your garage.
Begin by choosing the right battery. Popular golf cart battery types include flooded (lead-acid), absorbent glass mat (AGM), and lithium-ion. Investigate golf cart batteries, considering factors such as voltage, charging time, usage duration, and maintenance. Consult your cart manufacturer’s recommendations as a starting point, and then explore our top selections for a seamless golfing experience.
Having a golf cart is great, but you also need to be engaged in its upkeep so that it functions well for years to come.
There are different 6-volt batteries available in the market, but all of them have a different list of pros and cons. You would have to choose the correct battery for your golf cart based on the specifications and the features offered.
Making sure that the battery is compatible with the golf is necessary for a good experience with your vehicle.
Our Picks for 2023
1. Qty 4 VMAX V6-225: 6.2kWh 24V AGM Solar Battery – Editor’s Pick
Dimensions: 9.5 x 7.3 x 11 inches This is a deep-cycle battery that will exceed all your expectations. Typically, this battery will give a lifespan lasting up to nearly a decade if it is well-maintained.
It all depends on how well it suits your needs when it comes to powering your golf cart. This battery will only need to be used with care as it comes sealed and does not need any internal fixing by the user.
VMAX is known to offer heavy-duty batteries that will keep on functioning as new even after repeated cycles of draining. A battery like this is ideal for a golf cart simply because it is durable and has a long life along with other excellent features.
An electrolyte suspension system is used in this VMAX 6-volt battery. The high quality of materials and the perfect combination of those materials make this product like a premium quality battery for golf carts as well as other vehicles.
Features of the battery:
- Lead-Acid composition
- This battery is designed to be completely maintenance-free
- It comes with an electrolyte suspension system
- Military-grade plates are perfect for deep storage cycles
- Negligible self-discharge when it is kept in storage.
- High energy storage capacity
- AGM technology
- Good cycle life
- Wide temperature range
- Low self-discharge rate
- Higher initial cost
- Heavy weight
- Compatibility
- Limited high-current discharge capability
2. Mighty Max Exit Sign Battery
Dimensions: 2.76 inches x 1.89 inches x 4.21 inches This UL-certified battery comes in a pack of ten and delivers a performance that would satisfy even the most skeptical of customers.
This pack of 10 is a more economical option if you consider the cost per battery. This battery is temperature-resistant, shock-resistant and vibration resistant. Comes with a guaranteed warranty of 1 year and a refund policy of 30 days.
Features of the battery:
- Lead Acid composition
- Spill-proof
- Long service life
- Maintenance-free battery
- AGM technology
- Affordable price point
- Easy to install
- Reliable backup power source for emergency situations
- Long battery life and low self-discharge rate
- Maintenance-free design
- Limited compatibility with certain exit signs
- May not provide enough power for larger or more complex systems
- Only suitable for backup power, not designed for regular use
- Lead-acid chemistry can be heavy and bulky
- May require special disposal procedures at end of life.
3. NPP NP6-225Ah 6V 225Ah AGM Deep Cycle SLA Battery
Dimensions: 10.2 x 7.1 x 9.7 inches. This is another deep cycle option that you cannot pass upon. Weigh the pros and cons of this battery against the others to make the best decision keeping your golf cart in mind.
This battery is made while keeping in mind the varying functions it can handle. Four packs of this battery will be more than sufficient that power your golf cart and give you a smooth ride.
Features of the battery:
- Certifications: CE and UL Certified, ISO14001, and ISO9001
- It comes with a manufacturer’s warranty which lasts up to a year.
- AGM technology
- Maintenance-free design
- Made of weather-resistant components
- One month return and refund policy
- Deep cycle battery design for long-lasting use
- AGM technology for maintenance-free operation
- Can be mounted in any position
- Resistant to shocks and vibrations
- High capacity of 225Ah
- Only 6 volts, may require multiple batteries to reach desired voltage
- Relatively heavy and bulky
- Expensive compared to other battery types
4. VMAX XTR6-235 6 Volt 235Ah Group GC2 AGM Deep Cycle Battery
Dimensions: 10.2 x 7.1 x 10.8 inches Another battery is worth mentioning because of its durability and power-packed performance. This battery is made of durable plastic and with spill-proof technology.
This battery is used for many purposes, and powering a golf cart can easily be one of them. With many happy users, this battery is a strong contender in the list of batteries you should check out for your golf cart.
Features of the battery:
- This battery is sealed by the manufacturer and is maintenance-free.
- Come with a float voltage of about 6.9 volts and a cycling voltage of about 7.3 volts.
- Absorbent Glass Mat technology
- Low discharge when left unused
- High capacity of 235Ah
- AGM technology provides maintenance-free operation and longer lifespan
- Resistant to shocks and vibrations
- Can be mounted in any position
- Relatively heavy at 75 pounds
- More expensive compared to traditional flooded lead-acid batteries
- May require a compatible charger to ensure optimal performance and longevity
5. ExpertPower 6 Volt 4.5 Amp Battery
Dimensions: 1.8 x 2.7 x 4.1 inches Made with highly durable hard plastic, this small-sized battery will surprise you with its battery backup. This battery promises a long lifespan and is constructed in such a way that no leakage can damage the battery.
This battery is very capable of fulfilling the demand for high currents. This is a reliable battery and very simple to install. All the batteries are assessed for quality before getting shipped to the customer.
Features of the battery:
- AGM technology
- Long-life when kept in storage
- Compact and lightweight design
- Affordable price point
- Sealed construction makes it maintenance-free
- Can be used in a variety of applications
- Low capacity compared to other batteries
- Shorter lifespan than larger batteries
- Not suitable for high-drain devices
- May require frequent charging
6. Universal Power Group UBGC2 Sealed AGM Deep Cycle 6V 200AH Battery
Dimensions: 10.24 x 7.09 x 10.67 inches This is another battery with impeccable design and durable characteristics. This battery does not require any extra maintenance, and you would have to add water to it during its lifespan.
Made with nothing but quality products, this AGM battery is spill-proof and probably one of the best choices for your golf cart. You can make use of it for whichever purpose, and in any position you find comfortable.
Features of the battery:
- Good quality components
- Shock resistant
- Vibration resistant
- It comes with a one year warranty
- No corrosion due to battery acid
- Sealed design requires no maintenance
- Can handle frequent discharging and recharging cycles
- Long lifespan
- Can be used in various applications
- Relatively heavy and bulky
- Expensive compared to some other deep cycle batteries
7. Trojan T-125 6V 240Ah Flooded Lead Acid GC2 Deep Cycle Battery
Dimensions: 10.4 x 7.1 x 10.9 inches Trojan is a well-established company and has been in the business of manufacturing batteries since 1925. This battery is specially manufactured to withstand any detrimental weather conditions.
This battery has a long lifespan and is durable, promising a performance worth your money. When it comes to the best option available in the market for solar electric use, this is a battery that will come directly to mind.
These batteries are actively used in alternative energy systems and with good reason. This brand is a reliable one when it comes to creating durable batteries for its customers.
Features of the battery:
- Uses deep-cycle technology to its advantage
- It comes with 240 amp hours
- Lead Acid cell composition
- One of the best options while you are looking for alternative energy
- It requires little maintenance.
- Good value for money
- Can handle deep discharges
- Suitable for heavy-duty use
- Can last for a long time with proper maintenance
- Widely available and easy to find
- Require regular maintenance
- Not suitable for indoor use due to off-gassing
- Heavy and may require additional support
- May not perform well in extreme temperatures
8. Interstate Batteries
Dimensions: 1.85 x 4.02 x 2.76 inches This is an affordable battery that is worth your money. It has stellar customer reviews and offers a great battery backup. This is a sealed maintenance-free battery equipped with AGM technology.
The battery is recyclable and a perfect choice for customers who are looking for a low-cost option.
This battery does not provide a long backup after recharge but serves as an excellent battery to serve in the interim as the new heavy-duty battery arrives.
Features of the battery:
- Maintenance-free
- Spill-proof
- Recyclable
- Affordable
- Compact size makes it easy to install in tight spaces.
- Rechargeable, allowing for multiple uses.
- Maintenance-free design means no need for regular maintenance.
- Affordable price point.
- Lower capacity.
- Shorter lifespan.
- May not be suitable for larger or more demanding applications.
Moving forward
The choices above represent our top recommendations for golf cart owners who prefer a DIY approach. Many people rely on advice from manufacturers or retailers, just as they would take their car to a dealership for maintenance.
Battery technology is advancing, bringing more efficient and eco-friendly options. Cost is always a consideration, and we aimed to select options that combine sensible spending with high performance.
Using a lighter battery, like a lithium-ion, which can weigh a third of some AGM and flooded lead-acid options, can even increase your cart’s speed.
After Getting the Battery
Test the Golf Cart Battery for its Functionality
Whether you are buying the battery in the shop or online, it does not cost anything to be vigilant. The first thing you should do when you have your hands on the golf cart battery is to see if it is in proper working condition.
This method will also come in handy while you are checking the health of the existing golf cart batteries. Here is how you can do it:
- Inspect the battery physically to see if the terminal is functional if there is an unnecessary expansion in the casing if the plastic is cracked, and if there is any leaking.
- Check the battery voltage. The battery showing 0 volts needs replacement, while a battery that cannot show a reading of 10.5 volts as it is charging has a dead cell. Any deviation from the norms means a problem with the battery.
- Use a simple digital voltmeter to inspect the load of the battery. Only test the load when the golf cart battery is fully charged.
These steps will also help you decide if you need to buy a new golf cart battery at all.
How to Identify Your Golf Cart Battery Voltage
To supply the ideal voltage for your golf cart batteries, it’s essential to know their overall voltage capacity. However, many golfers are unsure how to determine their batteries’ voltage. In this article, we will share the steps to accurately identify the voltage of your golf cart batteries. Here’s how:
- First, locate the battery compartment.
- Next, count the number of holes on the battery (3, 4, or 6 holes).
- Multiply the number of holes by 2, as each hole represents 2 volts.
- By following these steps, you’ll find the actual voltage of your golf cart batteries.
How We Picked the Best Batteries
We thoroughly examined various manufacturer websites and customer preferences. Our research focused on each battery type’s functionality, energy output, usage duration, and maintenance requirements.
Voltage and amperage matter as they determine the run time or c-rate. The chosen batteries offer the best overall value in their respective categories. Lead-acid batteries are usually the most affordable, while lithium-ion is the most expensive.
AGM batteries provide the best balance of power, duration, and cost, making them an excellent choice in terms of price and longevity. Gel-based batteries are another category, but their cost and performance did not surpass AGM batteries.
Buying Guide for 6V Golf Cart Batteries
There are certain tips that one must know before you set out to buy a particular product.
While shopping online for golf cart batteries, you should consider the steps mentioned below to make a good purchase.
Read Reviews and See Ratings
It is a common practice by now that if you are looking to buy something online, you will look at the ratings and the reviews of the product. Any good product would have a 5-star rating and detailed reviews about how well it works.
If there are any negative reviews, make sure you read them to understand whether the issues resonate with your requirements.
If you feel that the reviews of the product are credible, then you should make the purchase.
Return and Replacement Policy
Sometimes it may happen that a particular product is not compatible with your vehicle. If the battery is not giving you good service, then it is in your best interest to return it.
Check the return or replacement policy of the product before you buy it. This way, you can either get your money back or get a new product in place of the faulty one that was delivered to you.
Maintenance
Although some golf cart batteries claim to be maintenance-free, it’s not always true. To prolong battery life, it’s crucial to regularly check and maintain the terminals and casing.
Cleaning the battery terminals, replacing damaged cables, and adhering to consistent charging cycles during regular use are vital for maintaining optimal battery health.
Another useful maintenance suggestion is to routinely apply silicone paste to the battery terminals. This helps reduce oxidation and maintains a high level of performance for long-lasting use.
Test It
Before you commit to buying any one type of battery, you need to test how well it works with your golf cart. Some tips as to how to do so are as follows:
- The Multimeter Method is the most accurate one.
- The Hydrometer Method is also frequently used.
- Discharge testing is ideal for wet cell batteries.
- Load testing will often be done in the case of golf cart batteries.
It would help if you always did these battery tests at room temperature. High fluctuations in temperature can alter the test results.
When it comes to storing batteries, you need to be careful about the room temperature as it should not be too high or too low as it can harm the battery life.
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
1. Will it be feasible to replace 8-volt batteries with 6-volt ones?
It all depends on your golf cart voltage. If you can make it work with 6-volt batteries instead of 8-volt ones, then it is not a problem you need to be worried about. For instance, in a golf cart with a voltage of 24 or 36 volts, you can opt for 6 volts, 8 volts or 12-volt batteries.
Since you are looking to replace 8-volt batteries, you will need four or six 6-volt golf cart batteries to make your golf cart work, satisfying its voltage requirement.
2. Can batteries from different companies be used to power a golf cart?
Technically, yes. Each battery needs to have the same specifications (Amp/h) so that they die at the same time and can be replaced simultaneously.
3. Is it possible or safe to change 6-volt golf cart batteries and install 12-volt?
Yes, it is quite possible. It depends on the type of golf cart you have. For example, if you have a 36-volt golf cart and you want to go with 12-volt batteries, then instead of six 6-volt batteries, you can install 3 12-volt batteries. It is entirely safe to do so.
4. What is the typical lifespan for a 6-volt golf cart battery?
It depends on the brand, the product, and its usage. Typically, a golf cart battery will last for at least five years. You can replace the old battery with a new one by adequately recycling it.
5. Can I put four 12V batteries in my golf cart?
The answer to this question is yes, you can put four 12V batteries in your golf cart. However, you need to make sure that the batteries are compatible with each other and that they are properly connected.
If you’re not sure about which batteries to use, we recommend consulting with a professional or contact the manufacturer of your golf cart.
6. Should golf batteries be charged after every use?
It’s important to keep your golf batteries charged after every use. Here’s why:
- Golf batteries can last longer when they’re properly maintained.
- Regularly charging your golf batteries can help prevent damage from sulfation, a common issue that can shorten the lifespan of lead-acid batteries.
- Keeping your golf batteries charged will ensure they’re always ready to go when you are. There’s nothing worse than getting to the course only to find out your battery is dead.
- Many golfers forget to charge their batteries after each round, which can lead to problems down the road. By making it a habit to charge your battery after every round, you’ll extend its life and avoid any potential issues.
7. How often should you check the water in a golf cart battery?
It is important to check the water level in a golf cart battery on a regular basis. The frequency of checking will depend on how often the cart is used.
If the golf cart is used regularly, it is recommended to check the water level at least once a month. If the cart is only used occasionally, it may be sufficient to check the water level every few months.
In either case, it is important to check the water level more frequently if the cart is used in hot weather or if it is left in storage for extended periods of time.
If the water level in the battery gets too low, it can damage the battery and shorten its lifespan. Checking and adding water to the battery on a regular basis will help prevent this from happening.
8. Can you use tap water in golf cart batteries?
If you have a golf cart, chances are you’ve been told to use distilled water in the batteries. But what if you’re in a pinch and don’t have any distilled water on hand? Can you use tap water instead?
The answer is maybe. It depends on the quality of your tap water. If your tap water is hard or has a lot of minerals in it, using it in your golf cart batteries can shorten their lifespan. This is because the minerals can build up on the battery plates and create deposits that prevent the flow of electricity.
If your tap water is soft or has few minerals in it, using it in your golf cart batteries should be fine. Just be sure to check the level of electrolytes in the batteries regularly, as they can evaporate more quickly when using tap water.
9. Is a high Ah battery better in a golf cart?
A high Ah (Ampere-hour) battery can be beneficial in a golf cart because it typically offers a greater energy storage capacity.
This means that the golf cart can run for a longer duration on a single charge, allowing you to cover more distance or play additional rounds before needing to recharge the battery.
However, it’s essential to consider other factors, such as battery weight, size, and compatibility with your specific golf cart, before making a decision.
Conclusion
Most of the batteries mentioned above are versatile and will power your golf cart for many years without a hitch.
You would have to choose the suitable options for your golf cart based on your usage, the specifications of the product, and the power backup it offers.
All of these batteries are good options and need to be chosen wisely. Consider your needs, the pros and cons, look at the reviews, and make the decision accordingly.
Here are some other interesting models that you might like: