AGM batteries
Hello, wondering if AGM batteries should be equalized monthly as normal wet cell batteries are. Thinking of changing to AGM. Thanks Socal
Forum Discussion
Only Lifeline aka Concord has recommendations and instructions on how and when to equalize their AGM - they call it "conditioning". They recommend doing it when 20% of original capacity has been lost. In other words - after a pretty long and heavy use.
Brands?
Lifeline if you have high current charging source available. They are different from others as they allow charging current higher than usual, but they also warn that you HAVE to use a charging current higher than usual AGM.
If not Lifeline, then there are Deka, Fullriver, UPG - rebranded Panasonic. There aren't too many reputable names in AGM, and I wouldn't buy unknown knock-off. There was some rebranded Deka at one of discount stores like Sam's Club, don't remember how they call it.
I didn't mention Optima - even though a good brand with unique design of electrodes, it is not strictly a deep cycle, but rather a hybrid of starter and deep cycle, and they don't come in big sizes, I think the biggest Optima is 60 AH. And, if you are looking for a real deep cycle, stay away from other AGM hybrids as well - they are sometimes called a "marine battery".
Brands?
Lifeline if you have high current charging source available. They are different from others as they allow charging current higher than usual, but they also warn that you HAVE to use a charging current higher than usual AGM.
If not Lifeline, then there are Deka, Fullriver, UPG - rebranded Panasonic. There aren't too many reputable names in AGM, and I wouldn't buy unknown knock-off. There was some rebranded Deka at one of discount stores like Sam's Club, don't remember how they call it.
I didn't mention Optima - even though a good brand with unique design of electrodes, it is not strictly a deep cycle, but rather a hybrid of starter and deep cycle, and they don't come in big sizes, I think the biggest Optima is 60 AH. And, if you are looking for a real deep cycle, stay away from other AGM hybrids as well - they are sometimes called a "marine battery".
