Is killing batteries three times too much?
I use a set of 6V golf cart batteries from Costco. The pair that is in my rig now is two years old and they only last a couple of nights before the low voltage alarm on my CPAP starts sounding. When t...
Forum Discussion
Camp, Forrest, Camp! wrote:
After reading up on sulfate on and what kills lead acid batteries, I have learned some things. Firstly, I have been backwards on my charging routine. I always charge them just before I leave when I should be charging them as soon as I get home. Secondly, the converter/charger in my new RV is not going to be the best way of keeping them healthy. Finally, I should be able to extend the life of my current batteries by performing a desulfation procedure.
For the last option, I can buy the Black and Decker charger identified above which has some nice automatic features. I can make my own desulfation which may/may not work and may/may not burn down my house. Finally, I can buy the BatteryMINDER 12248 which probably won't do as well in recovering my current batteries as the B & D unit, but with the smaller form factor, I can install it in the camper permanently.
Still not sure which option I will take. I haven't stated a good fire in a while.
Before you run out and buy new batteries, why not attempt to recover these? What have you got to lose?
Trojan indicates that an "equalization" charge should be preformed occasionally, and it appears yours have never had that done. The batts may very well be toast, but still worth a try. If they can be brought back, their life expectancy has been affected still, but once again, it's worth a shot. If you're interested & before you buy anything, PM me & I will loan you my Schumacher Smart charger, Temp compensating hydrometer & voltage Load Tester.
In my opinion, the newer converters installed today, along with the Battery Minder #12248 do not output enough voltage to "equalize" lead acid deep cycle batteries. Both are limited to a max output of 14.4 volts to accommodate some AGM battery manufacturers recommendations for charging, and under certain circumstances cannot accomplish what may be needed. Older converters, like mine, are no match for charging. At best mine outputs approx. 5 amps on a good day.
PS: I too must use a CPAP, but have a dedicated 35amp deep cycle for that purpose only. Do you use a humidifier with yours?
