Deer feeder batteries

[DCS]

We have 8 feeders out at our place all with 12 volt, rechargeable batteries.  It seems like that every time we turn around we have another dead battery for some reason or another  So, we started buying a new one as a spare. turns out, they have a shelf life, just about the time you need to use the back up one, it's dead too from not being used.  My plumbing buddy suggested to buy a new one and rotate it them out every three months with one that is fully charged, in another 3 months, take that one and rotate it out to another feeder and so on.  That way you should always have one a good battery in reserve, next time you come back up just bring a new battery and keep rotating.

Sounds like a pretty good idea to me, just thought I would pass it along. 

[TXHuntress]

We use 12 volts too, we have been lucky I guess. We have had had some last a couple years. Do you use solar panels to keep them charged?

[Big Tony]

I have a solar panel on mine. Last battery lasted 5 seasons without touching it. The one in there now has lasted 3 seasons so far and is running strong.

[DCS]

Yep, we have solar panels on all of them. But sometimes you will find one with a corroded terminal or broken wire and now the battery is dead. We had several back up batteries in reserve but they seem to die from lack of use after a while.  Guess they have a shelf life.

[sallysue]

I use solar panels also and seem to work fine but mine aint for deer

[lotto]

I use all season 12 volt feeders with solars and have not replace a battery yet...4 yrs.