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Pleasure and sport fishing boats are all usually outfitted with a battery on-off switch. This little item serves several functions and is a must on any but the most humble Jon boat.
The simply single post battery switch is designed to eliminate power to any instrument and the engine when in the off position. This insures that any parasitic draw-down of the battery will not occur.
A simple one post switch will help maintain adequate starting voltage on vessels carrying only one starting battery which also serves a livewell or other units requiring power. It’s advised that any vessel with add-on units requiring power is better served by a two battery system.
Two battery systems will insure starting power and full function of other electronic devices, usually without interruption. A two post switch is required to alternate battery use. Premium two post switches generally will have a third post designated all or both, allowing both batteries to be engaged as desired. These batteries can be maintained by simply alternating usage during vessel operation. Batteries are only being charged by the engine when the switch is on one or the other position; both batteries are being charged when the switch is on all or both.
There is some confusion as to what is the best way to maintain your dual battery system while operating your engine, which serves as the primary charging system on most recreational vessels. The consensus among the most experienced and knowledgeable certified mechanics I’ve spoken with is that you’re better off to startup with your dual post switch in the all or both the battery position. On longer initial runs the engine will charge both batteries while they are under load. While drift fishing or anchored and employing livewells or other instruments, switching to a single battery is the best practice. This insures a fully charged reserve starting battery will be available.
Be advised that some electrical systems, particularly on older two stroke outboards, will not allow the safe switching of batteries while the engine is running. Read your manual. Generally transferring of the electrical load from one battery to another is best done after shutting down on a long run.
Make a point to be sure that electronic add-on devices such as depth finders, GPS units and other accessories are not be wired directly to a single battery, particularly on a dual battery system. This expedient wiring often leads to battery failure, since the battery carrying the load may not be charging and may suffer a draw even while the vessel is at rest. The best solution is to wire your electronics to a control panel with an isolated power switch with breakers and switches for each device. The control panel, switches and breakers will help in isolating any problems or system failures.
The control panels are energized by the battery switch and feed off whichever battery is activated by that switch, therefore assuring that the battery being drawdown is also being charged when the engine is running.
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