Launched in 2004, National Preparedness Month (NPM) is managed and sponsored by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security Federal Emergency Management Agency’s (FEMA’s) Ready Campaign. The observance occurs each September to promote preparedness for disasters and emergencies at home and in the community. Among recommendations related to NPM is that passenger cars and trucks always have a half tank of gas in case evacuation is...

When cooler weather arrives, you’re likely to decommission your vessel for storage until the warmer weather returns. Preparation of your boat, or decommissioning, is necessary to minimize damage while in storage. Motorboats require preparing the engine and its components, including the battery, for storage or any extended period of non-use. The following are recommendations for the proper storage of batteries. As always, be sure to...

As the seasons change, and fall sporting and outdoor events get closer, perhaps your thoughts turn to tailgating with your Recreational Vehicle (RV), equipped with all the amenities and accessories you need for another fantastic day of fun in the crisp autumn air. Don’t let it slip away by choosing the wrong battery to power your RV. Deep cycle batteries are essential for providing dependable power...

Today’s heavy-duty trucks are more advanced than ever before, with more technology enhancements added in the last decade than in the past 50 years. While technology has improved the operating experience, it has also increased the need for more power and energy storage than ever before. A plethora of safety, comfort, vehicle connectivity and infotainment features have increased the drain on the battery, requiring additional...

Hot summer temperatures can be tough to weather—especially for motor vehicles—driving up the temperature under the hood so much that it can lead to engine overheating and even accelerate the onset of battery failure. In fact, according to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), car drivers are at a higher risk of getting into accidents during the summer season than at any other time...

After a season or two, you may be thinking your Personal Watercraft (PWC) battery has seen better days. Perhaps it’s time for replacement. It’s essential to have a healthy, fully charged battery to crank your engine, but you may also need to power your lights, radio or any other electrical accessories that draw power from your PWC. There are a few things to consider before making...

The battery in your motor vehicle is probably used and recharged by the alternator daily. However, marine batteries may sit dormant for days, weeks or even longer. Practicing basic maintenance can help preserve battery life and enable premium power performance when you need it. There are three basic types of marine batteries: Absorbed Glass Mat (AGM), gel and traditional flooded lead acid. The latter requires more...

Spring is here, and soon the warmer weather will have powersports enthusiasts preparing to hit the deserts, ORV parks, hill climbs or maybe even the beach in their dune buggies. When you are traversing sand dunes, your vehicle will need to be in top shape to handle the harsh conditions and help assist in your return home. Great care and consideration are taken to tune engines,...

Some Recreational Vehicle (RV) owners decommission their vehicles during the winter and recommission them in spring. Preparing the RV for spring includes cleaning and polishing, checking locks, repairing splits and cracks, checking for water and mold, and inspecting onboard appliances, electronics and plumbing. The cables and plugs in the RV’s engine should also be inspected for wear and damage and be replaced if needed. Among...

With the arrival of spring, boating enthusiasts look forward to taking to the water, especially in climates where it is too cold for boating during winter. Watercraft that remains dormant for a few months need to be recommissioned to ensure that all systems onboard are functioning properly. Recommissioning involves inspection, preparation, cleaning and sometimes repair or replacement of onboard components, including the marine battery or...

A Recreational Vehicle (RV) is a unique mode of automotive travel that includes onboard living quarters that enables you to visit remote locations. This type of vehicle application requires power sources for not only turning over the engine, but also supporting a variety of house loads for added convenience. Also known as hotel loads, house loads include the amenities that make this mode of transportation...

As boating enthusiasts prepare for warmer weather, many assume the do-it-yourself (DIY) task of recommissioning their watercraft. Attention to the boat’s marine battery and its care is an important part of this annual practice. Not only must marine batteries start engines, but they are also responsible for powering onboard accessories. Known as house loads, these accessories can include communications equipment for monitoring weather and contacting...

As the warmer weather approaches, boating enthusiasts tinker with their watercraft to get ready for another season of fishing, watersports and relaxing on the water. Avid boaters can spend hours cleaning hulls, checking drains, waxing fiberglass and meticulously caring for teak accents. Nothing ruins a day planned on the water quicker than an inoperable battery. When you are ready to replace the battery in your boat,...