Best practices for battery charging?

[RErmer]

We have heard different info from different sources, so I would like to ask the expert about charging our electric cart batteries:

1. Is it a good or bad practice to plug in the cart each time it is driven, even if only for a few miles?
2. Does it hurt either the batteries or charger to disconnect before charging is complete?

We just got new batteries and want them to have the longest possible life (especially since we went for the more expensive version)!

Thanks!

[Frank7]

Too the original questions,
It is a good practice to plug the charger in every time you get home. Keep in mind when you start your automobile your batteries start charging immeaditley after you turn your key to start. Batteries like to be automatically charged and your charger will take good care of the if used properly.
2-You may interupt the charging cycle any time to use your cart and when you return home start the process again. Try to have a decent amount of charge when operating your cart
3-Always use only distilled water when ading water.

[UpNorth]

About how long does it take a new set of batteries to "break in"? My new set takes a full charge, yet drops to about halfway fairly quickly. They have only gone through about 12-15 charge cycles since they were installed. Is this normal? Will they maintain a higher charge level when they go through 40-50 charge cycles?

[village dreamer]

and how about a long lay up time.............4-5 mounths . can you just put on a trickle charge for that long??? thanks

[Frank7]

Your batteries that have had 10 - 15 charges should be well enough broke in to give you the service you are expecting.
There is something wrong with any of these items and in no order.
Batteries, meter, charger, short in 48 volt system, charge computer.

[Frank7]

Question Two-
Batteries left unattended without charging for 4-5 months loose 15 - 20 % of there charge each month as well creating a sulfation buildup therefor reducing the battery life and proformance.

[village dreamer]

can you put it on trickle charge 4-5 months??

[Frank7]

Yes, as long as water level is checked and kept above plates.

[leftyf]

What do you like best, the battery desulfator or the Battery Tender Plus for long term storage?

[Frank7]

The (Battery Minder) test out to be the best product, it is both desulfater and charger combined.