- The best range optimization strategy is "go slow(er)". The graph at right of amp draw to speed for my boat is not a linear one. You will use MUCH more power trying to go fast. So whereas 4knots might take 40 amps (as on my boat), 5 knots takes 80 amps!. So enjoy a slower pace to life. In the absence of that, here's some other tactics, roughly in order of cost/benefit. Reduce Drag
- Think like a racer. Slippery hulls, no fenders dragging, weight balanced, shiny prop. Anything else and you are wasting amps
- A fouled prop will make a very large decrease in overall efficiency. I just had mine polished recently after a fairly long interval, and probably saw a 20% decrease in amp-draw for a given speed.
- Right-size your batteries
- Or Mr. Peukert will be along for the ride
- Generator
- Wind Generator
- $olar Panel$
- Propshaft Regeneration