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
Almot wrote:bigfootford wrote:
The PD does the 15 min equalize routine every 21 hrs at 14.4vdc.... Sufficient????
Equalizing every day would not be just sufficient, and would likely be overkill. But 14.4V barely qualifies as bulk charge (aka Absorb setpoint), not to mention equalizing. Most chargers, including solar, have 14-something bulk setpoint and timer that maintains this 14-something for one hour. This is merely a 2nd stage of a routine 3-stage charging, and is not equalizing.
Well explain why my Lifelines are still developing full spec capacity after 4 years?
Per lifeline:
Charging Phase 2 Volt Battery 6 Volt Battery 12 Volt Battery
Bulk/Absorb 2.37v - 2.40v 7.10v - 7.20v 14.2v - 14.4v
Float 2.20v - 2.23v 6.60v - 6.70v 13.20v - 13.40v
NOTES:
Is not that all we want? Batteries to last and maintain capacity?
I know a fella that got almost 8 years on his AGM lifeline...WFCO that never got into bulk and a solar system that never did over 14.6....
I also know someone that has almost 9 years on optima's running a pd9145. And solar. Never equalized no special attention....Still near spec...
I have tested both of these systems and know to be true.
Jim
