If you love to golf, chances are you own your own golf cart. If you own a golf cart, you probably know that having a reliable battery charger is really important for several reasons. For one, having the right charger will ensure your battery stays in the best condition possible.
Also, some battery chargers (like the chargers from Battery Tender) could potentially expand the lifespan of your golf cart battery (as well as help to prevent unexpected breakdowns—which are obviously super inconvenient when you’re just trying to enjoy an afternoon golfing on your favorite course).
With so many options available, choosing the best golf cart battery charger can honestly be a bit overwhelming. For this reason, understanding the different types of golf cart battery chargers and the features they offer is important when it comes to making an informed decision. Let’s talk more about golf cart batteries—and the options available—below.
How Do Golf Cart Battery Chargers Work?
If you’re wondering how golf cart battery chargers actually work, you’re not alone. Golf cart battery chargers work by supplying electric current to recharge depleted batteries. Most modern chargers use smart charging technology to optimize the charging process. This ensures the battery reaches full capacity without overcharging.
Over time, batteries naturally lose their charge, and without a proper charger, they can degrade faster than expected. This is unfortunate, but thankfully, frequent charging with a high-quality charger can significantly improve your golf cart battery’s battery life (and performance in general).
Types of Golf Cart Battery Chargers
There are two main types of golf cart battery chargers: off-board and on-board. Battery Tender’s PowerPlus units are mountable and can be used in both an off-board and on-board manner. Each type of battery charger has its own advantages. The one you choose will mostly depend on your golf cart setup and specific charging needs. Let’s take a closer look below:
Off-Board Battery Chargers
Off-board chargers are the most common type of charger that’s used for golf carts. These chargers are portable and can be plugged into a standard wall outlet in your garage or storage space. They are designed for stable environments, which means they’re an excellent choice if you frequently need to charge your golf cart at home.
Battery Tender’s PowerPlus series includes off-board chargers, which have smart charging technology that ensures efficient power delivery to your golf cart batteries. This also helps to prevent overcharging, which is a huge plus.
On-Board Battery Chargers
On-board chargers are built into the golf cart itself, which means you can charge your batteries wherever there’s an available power source. These chargers are especially ideal if you’re taking an extended trip—or if your favorite golf course has a charging station.
While they offer convenience, installation can be more complex, and they may be more expensive than off-board options. If you prefer flexibility, you can convert an on-board charger into an off-board setup using a DC plug adapter, freeing up space in your cart and extending the charger’s lifespan.
Choosing the Right Battery and Charger
The effectiveness of your golf cart charger depends on the type of battery you use. The most common golf cart batteries are lead-acid batteries and lithium-ion batteries. Each type requires a compatible charger to function properly and efficiently.
Lead-Acid Batteries
These traditional batteries require regular maintenance, including water refills. While they’re quite reliable, they can also be heavy and require a charger that prevents sulfation and overcharging.
Lithium Batteries (LiFePO4)
These newer batteries are lightweight, charge faster, and last longer than lead-acid batteries. They require a specialized lithium battery charger (like the lithium-compatible battery charger models from Battery Tender, for example), which includes a wake-up mode to restore deeply discharged batteries.
Voltage compatibility is another important factor when it comes to picking out a charger. Golf carts typically run on 36-volt or 48-volt systems, and using the wrong charger can lead to performance issues or damage. You should always choose a charger that matches your battery’s voltage requirements.
The Best Golf Cart Battery Chargers
Battery Tender offers a range of high-quality chargers designed for golf cart owners who want reliable performance, advanced safety features, and long-term durability. Here are two of the best options available:
Battery Tender PowerPlus 48V 15 AMP Battery Charger and Maintainer
The PowerPlus 48V 15 AMP charger is an excellent choice for golf carts with 48-volt systems. It’s designed with durability in mind, and it features a rugged, weather-resistant chassis that’s suitable for both indoor and outdoor use. Here’s what you can expect from this golf cart battery charger:
- Smart Charging Technology: Prevents overcharging by automatically switching to float mode when the battery is full.
- Compatibility: Works with lead-acid, AGM, and lithium (LiFePO4) batteries (i.e. it’s a versatile charger that works for several different golf cart models).
- Safety Features: It comes with built-in spark-proof technology and reverse polarity protection, which helps to ensure safe and secure connections.
- Easy Operation: This charger is also really easy to use due to its compact design and simple plug-and-play functionality. It’s a super reliable choice for golf cart owners.
Battery Tender PowerPlus 36V 18 AMP On-Board Battery Charger and Maintainer
If your golf cart runs on a 36-volt system, the PowerPlus 36V 18 AMP charger is an excellent choice. This battery charger provides efficient power delivery, and it comes with enhanced safety features. Here’s a rundown of what you can expect when you choose this golf cart battery charger:
- Fast Charging Capabilities: Charges quickly and switches to maintenance mode to prevent overcharging.
- Advanced Safety Features: IP68-rated weather resistance, shock and vibration protection, and automatic shut-off help to improve safety.
- Many Different Applications: This battery charger isn’t just suitable for golf cart batteries. It can be used for marine and industrial needs, too.
- Compact and Lightweight Design: The fact that it’s so compact allows for easy installation in tight spaces (i.e. it’s a practical solution for on-board charging).
Maintaining Your Golf Cart Battery Charger
Proper maintenance is really important. After all, you want to make sure that your battery charger remains in good working condition. Remember, without a well-maintained, functional battery, your golf cart won’t be going anywhere anytime soon. Here are a few tips we’d recommend following:
Keep It Clean
Dust and debris can interfere with the charging process more than you might think. We’d recommend wiping down your battery charger regularly to prevent dust and debris buildup.
Store in a Dry Location
Moisture can damage the internal components of your golf cart’s battery charger, so make sure to keep your charger in a climate-controlled space when you’re not using it.
Check Connections
You should also make sure that the plug and battery terminals are clean and secure before starting a charge. This ensures safety, but it’ll also help to prevent problems like insufficient charging.
Use the Right Charger for Your Battery Type
Unfortunately, mismatching a charger with the wrong battery can reduce efficiency and lead to premature failure. If you’re unsure what battery type your cart uses, check your owner’s manual or contact the manufacturer before purchasing a charger. If you’re not sure whether the charger you want will match with your golf cart’s battery, we’d be happy to help you out.
Investing in a high-quality golf cart battery charger (like the chargers offered by Battery Tender) is the best way to make sure your golf cart remains powered and ready whenever you need to use it.
Now that you have a better understanding of the different types of battery chargers for golf carts, their different features, and proper maintenance, you should be able to make an informed decision. Learn more about battery chargers from Battery Tender by visiting their website!
