Do I need 2 batteries

[jsylvester08]

I have a 19'6 osprey center consol and I just got my self a radio and 2 speakers for a great deal. My question is do I need a second battery? My thought is that best practice is yes I need 2, a starter battery and and an accessory battery. If I get a second battery should a buy a 2 battery switch or can I use my regular switch?
Thanks
JP

[Capt. Bob]

A second battery is additional cost in both the install and the unit itself but....

It's like insurance, good to have when the time comes you really need it.

You could always just carry a spare and break it out if you need to. That's not uncommon and you eliminate the additional hookup. Still you have to give up storage space and you'll need to disconnect and then hook up, plus keep the spare charged away from the boat.

Just thoughts.

Also, what kind of switch do you presently have?

[seabob4]

JP,
If your current batt switch is a simple On/Off, then, no, you can't control both batts from that switch, you have to swap over to a Off/1/All/2 type, your choice (Perko, Blue Seas, BEP, etc.).  If you don't want to go through the expense (remembers cables and terminals as well) of permanantly wiring in a second batt, you can carry a spare as CB said.  But if you find after a day on the water that the current batt is a bit weak after sitting on the sandbar, on the hook and playing tunes, then you'll know you should go ahead and do the change to 2 batts onboard...