Deep Cycle Battery Charging From Alternator
Hello, May I ask for advice regarding charging deep cycle batteries from the alternator? I have read older threads, and understand opinions vary. The previous two 100Ah deep cycle AGM coach bat...
Forum Discussion
time2roll wrote:
Lifeline charging spec 14.4 volts, PD charging 14.4 volts.
How close does it need to be?
Conditioning only recommended if there seems to be lost capacity.
In the Lifeline specs (linked above) see table 5.1 where the spec Vabs 14.3v at 77F becomes 14.72 at 50F and 14.9 at 40F
Read para 5.5 farther along where they discuss "routine conditioning". This would be needed for many/most RVing scenarios. Every 2 to 4 weeks note. They have a temp comp table for that too adjusting from 15.5 at 77F--voltages higher when cooler.
Mex can say "how close does it need to be?" but LY has confirmed his AGM loses capacity if he does not follow these kind of instructions. Lifeline is quite serious about what they say there.
IMO the point is the Lifeline AGM especially, but other brands too are expensive compared with flooded batts. So if you can't meet the AGM charging specs, it is going to cost you money.
Most RVs are simply not equipped to meet proper battery charging specs, AGM or Flooded, and most RVers would not have the time or desire to bother with it all even if they had the equipment. Easier to keep buying new batteries.
