Published on: January 20, 2022
Written by Liam Jaxon / Fact-checked by David Rowan
Marine battery switches are necessary, especially for those that love to go boating. But even with this necessity, many boat owners still don’t know the use of these devices while traveling on water. The best marine battery switch can keep your boating experience trouble-proof.
Here, we present to you the best battery switches available at the moment. We’ve painstakingly customized these decisions from a variety of choices for significant reasons, for example, voltage power, amperage rating, size, and weight, and it’s just the beginning.
Assuming you want to see our purchase guide for the best marine battery switch you may want to know about these aspects.
At the same time, these tools can save you from being stuck alone in the water.
What are Marine Battery Switches
A marine battery switch is a device that enables you to one battery to another without connecting any wires. A marine switch is a mandatory element that helps you to manage the control of the marine battery. This equipment is essential if you are bringing a lot of electric-powered devices such as radios, fish finders, and so on. The trolling motor needs these switches too! Hence, if you are out in the sea, these switches have a guarantee to extend your batteries’ power.
Switching one battery to another is a great way to extend its lifespan. If properly used, this device will enable you to utilize your batteries under its recommended usage.
A battery contains battery acid and lead sulfate. These two are some of the battery’s key components for it to store power and charge. If you don’t use a battery often, its performance will deteriorate.
Once this happens, charging will be challenging and shorter. In fact, you can likewise notice this even in your phone batteries. A damaged cell phone battery quickly charges but runs out of power faster too!
Hence, it is recommended to switch batteries while you are boating. By doing so, you will prevent one battery from being fully discharged. Therefore, having the best marine battery switch is a necessity. The best marine battery switch is a perfect partner for the deep cycle battery.
Why You Need Marine Battery Switch
If you are new to this area and want to know why you need these switches so this part is for you. These battery switches play a very important role so that you can easily control your marine battery power. The switch is connected to the battery so that you can power it on and off. This way helps you to manage the overall control of your marine boat battery.
These switches create an electric system that can be used to disconnect and disconnect devices. You can quickly turn off the electrical connection in case of an emergency if you want, so you can avoid any accidents. Using the switches you can easily control your marine vessel and use the battery connection properly.
Necessary Options of A Marine Battery Switch
Most of the time new switch box users are confused about the option of a marine battery switch. It’s better to know details about the option of this item because this process helps you to control the switches. Let’s find out the details about it.
Option off- this option means that the engine is running but at the same time the alternator is not charging either of your battery banks. At this time if the user plugged in shore power, then the switch is bypassed and all banks will be charged regardless of the battery switch set.
Option 1- This option is used to start the battery. Users use this option when they start their engine and want to charge the starter battery with an alternator.
Option 2- Generally this option is assigned to “house” banks. Boat owners use this when they are at the anchor position and need to run something that needs power like light. They also have an option when the engine is working and want to recharge the house.
Option all Yes, this is the most exclusive option for a marine battery switch. This is a mixed version of options one and two. This option indicates that the user charges all batteries.
Be Careful With All Marine Battery Switches
The well-known OFF – 1 – 2 – When using ALL marine battery switches, turn on your motor with the switch set to 1 position (start the battery) to reactivate the starting battery and start the engine with the changeset to 1.
After about 20 minutes, switch to 2 to re-energize the house bank until your motoring is finished, at which point, you will be at our home bank when you anchor.
Here Are Some Notable Factors of a Marine Battery Switch
Voltage Power
High-voltage batteries are ordinarily installed on large boats or similar alternatives. For this type of boat, you should pick an appropriate battery switch so that it can do the necessary work and carry the voltage in your boat circuit correctly.
Amperage Rating
Amperage is the force of motion moving through a circuit. Consistent on your boat, the amperage results of your boat battery are very extra. As such, your switch must have the required amperage rating to be effective with your battery.
Fabricated Material
Form elements even for a simple gadget, for example, a battery switch is vital. With fair form quality, your switch will be in proper working condition for quite some time. In the event that it is not strong, it can cause damage even in a month or somewhere around.
How to Wire a Battery Switch Boat Diagram
Marine batteries are always necessary for electrically operated gadgets and equipment. For motorboats, knowing how to wire a battery switch will ensure this marine vehicle’s smooth operation.
Different systems require a different setups. For example, a 2-Battery 1-Engine system has three ways of battery switch wiring. First, you can change isolated batteries to all loads or combine them with all loads. Second, you can do the first wiring setup, but you have to do them simultaneously this time. The third wiring configuration is to isolate a weak or failing battery.
Besides a battery switch, you will also need an Automatic Charging Relay to do successful wiring.
Quick Solutions
Are Marine Batteries Better?
Always use a marine battery for your boat
They’re stronger, heavier, and more suited to the unique needs of a ship with an inboard or outboard. Take excellent care of them, and they’ll last for several years of continuous use.
How Long will a Marine Battery Last?
five to seven years
Boat batteries are expensive to shop for in the first place, yet they will lose most of their capacity within a few seasons if they’re mistreated. However, if you treat them well, a group of decent service batteries can last for five to seven years.
Does a Boat Battery Charge While Run?
While the motor is sprinting, the alternator inside will effortlessly replenish the used energy. If your boat is powered by a new-age model outboard with sophisticated computers, pumps, and sensors, you want to be confident you’ve got enough starting power.
How Do You Choose a Marine Battery Switch?
Choosing the right marine battery switch for boats depends on the number of batteries and motors you have.
Generally recommended: Single battery Single motorboat will use a Blue C6006 battery switch.
Two battery single-engine boats will use a 6007 or 6011 marine battery switch.
How Does a Marine Battery Isolator Switch Work?
The reason for this switch is to seclude a motor battery from the house bank. At the point when the switch is gone to ON, the motor battery is associated with the motor, and the house bank is associated with the house loads.
Our Recommended Top 5 Marine Switch-
1. Blue Sea Systems m-Series Battery Switches Great for Heavy Duty
Good technology- If continuous performance is your requirement, the Blue Sea Systems Battery Switch Selector is the right device for you. This marine battery switch can give you a reliable power supply, which is useful, especially for long trips. Switching between batteries is convenient and uninterrupted, thanks to its dual circuit technology.
Easy to install- Do not worry if you are using a gasoline-operated boat. This is because the Blue Sea Systems Battery Switch Selector has a protective feature against ignition. Installing it on your boat is also easy-peasy too!
Waterproof- Moreover, this marine battery switch is 1P66 waterproof. Also, it is ISO-8846 certified and has passed the ABYC quality control requirement.
Suitable for heavy voltage- The Blue Sea Systems Battery Switch Selector runs 350A per circuit and has a maximum voltage of 32V DC. It means this switch has the capacity to play heavy duty.
What We Liked
- Reliable power supply;
- Useful especially for long trips;
- Dual circuit technology;
- Waterproof;
- Two isolated battery banks;
- High-quality plastic.
What We Didn’t Like
- No noticeable cons.
2. Marinco 701 Battery Disconnect Switch Good for Versatile Use
Unique features- As a marine battery switch, the Marinco 701 Battery Disconnect Switch has a lot to flaunt. One of these is its Contour Locking System which allows this device to stand alone or connect with other switches. This technology has a patent, so there is a guarantee that there are no other brands out there that have the same feature.
Versatile Use- This battery switch has a removable control knob that has an interchangeable labeling system. These two technical feats allow this device to run different applications simultaneously. If you want to remove the control knob, just switch it into a 45-degree counterclockwise position. The side plates are also removable too, to cater to up to 10 cables.
Short-circuits free- The Marinco 701 Battery Disconnect Switch prevents any short circuits due to the insulation on its rear cover. It safe you and your marine vehicle in critical condition.
Good Quality and durable- Moreover, this battery switch meets the ABYC quality control requirements. It is a durable device that ensures easy management of your marine item.
What We Liked
- Contour Locking System;
- Run different applications easily;
- Side plates are removable;
- Has short circuit prevention.
What We Didn’t Like
- No noticeable cons.
3. Perko 8501DP Marine Battery Selector for Medium Duty and Two Batteries Boat
Single and dual system technology- The Perko 8501DP Marine Battery Selector is a great partner for boats that utilize more than two batteries. This device is used either by single or dual systems. These two systems will allow you to choose which battery you will utilize for different operations. Hence, you have the freedom to choose what battery will be used for starting the engine, charging, and for operating your other devices.
Easy adjustment and management- If your batteries are under 50V, 360 amp intermittent, or 250 amp continuous, this battery switch can allow you to run your batteries in parallel. You can do this operation by just changing the dials. The Perko 8501DP Marine Battery Selector also passed the ABYC requirements.
High-quality material- Yes, if you are worried about the material then don’t worry because this item is made with high-quality materials. It ensures the good quality and durability of these marine battery switches.
What We Liked
- Usable in single and dual systems;
- Easy installable and flexible;
- Works great.
What We Didn’t Like
- No noticeable cons.
4. Attwood 14230-3 Single Pole Marine Battery Switch
Adaptable- This marine battery is utilized for 6 to 32-volt D. C. (direct current) frameworks. Evaluated 300 amps for ceaseless use at 6 volts and 150 amps for constant use at 12 volts.
Function admirably- These are both viable and dependable, designed and worked with a never-bomb mentality.
Easy to install- A programmed alternator separates the field circuit and in this manner safeguards your important boat hardware. The tough form highlights bakelite lodging, copper washers, and strong metal terminals and nuts.
What We Liked
- An automatic alternator field circuit;
- 4-way battery selector switch;
- Reliable power supply;
- High-quality plastic.
What We Didn’t Like
- No noticeable cons.
5. Blue Sea Systems 300 Amp m-Series Battery Switches
One-of-a-kind elements- All boats and vehicles, including motors, have a battery somewhere around which the main role is to turn the motor and carry loads like lights, siphons, and hardware. The secure exchange between batteries, load, and charge sources is accomplished using items such as m-Series battery switches.
Waterproof- IP66 waterproof, ISO 8846 and meets ABYC necessities. Start safeguarded ok for establishment onboard gas-controlled boats.
Easy to install- A creative snap-together plan expands the unwavering quality and life span without the utilization of interior latches. The back cover is one piece with a broken exterior, for a more straightforward installation. Each stud is squeezed into a copper-built-up transport for added help.
What We Liked
- Tactile indicator conveys knob position by feeling;
- Case design offers multiple mounting options;
- Accepts up to 4/0 AWG (120 mm²) battery cables.
What We Didn’t Like
- No noticeable cons.
Conclusions
Marine battery switches play an important role to control your battery panel. So it’s important to pick the best one for your boat. It can save you from unwanted issues.
Experts suggest using the right marine battery switch box for too long to last your battery life. If you want a quality and durable battery then the Blue Sea Systems m-Series Battery Switch is best. If you want to use another brand ensure it’s best for your boat.
If you are not happy with the data, you can similarly point to our purchase guide to get some additional data about the battery switch as a whole. In the current rundown, we have top suggestions that may be the ideal decision for you.
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About This Writer
Hi, I am responsible for the 'Homeowners Power Solutions' category. My name is Liam Jaxon and a licensed technician with 7 years of experience in vehicle batteries, electrical gadgets, and home appliances. My working experience in different residential & light commercial electrical sectors and the automobile industry helped to acquire vast knowledge in this industry.
