A simple AGM battery question

If I was changing from FLA to AGM, but going with a dual-AGM setup as a battery bank and adding 200W of solar at the same time with a 30A controller, do I have anything to worry about in regards to charging? I'm also adding a 200A power relay/battery isolator from the truck at the same time. Camper is a Lance 815.

Check out your controller for an AGM setting. Most modern controllers will have an AGM setting. As stated before, the AGM batteries should charge quicker. They are also suppose to be more tolerant to cold weather. A good controller will maintain your batteries at 13.5 or 13.6 volts and charge them with something like 14.2 volts. The last set of AGMs that I had lasted for over 11 years. They were definitely worth the extra cost and I made sure that I had a good solar charge controller.

If your controller does not have an AGM setting, the lead acid setting will most likely work fine.

I have had/have two different manufactures AGM batteries, since 2004. Lifeline (made in USA), and Universal made in China). I have an Iota 55 amp charger, and 130 watts of solar. I have done nothing special in my charging systems. Lifeline changed the charging specs no less than three times when I had the Lifeline.

I will not argue theory, but will argue life experience on this subject. Simply stated, I have experienced no need to differentiate between AGM and Flooded Wet Cell batteries in the charging system.

I will add, you can charge the AGMs at a faster rate than Flooded wet cell batteries, if your charging system is up to the task.

Wayne

Most 3 stage style converters will do fine. Fixed 13.6 volts will tend to leave AGM undercharged.

100w of solar could accomplish the same.

You should look up the specs to be sure, but I believe most RVs now have chargers that have a AGM mode and can sense them.

With your 950, they charge just fine. You do not need to switch anything...

AGM batteries do best when the charging system is configured for them (the good ones have an "AGM" mode).

If you are going to invest in AGMs take the time to set up your systems to care and feed for them appropriately!

Hi JShiv,

Depending on the brand of AGM it may be desirable to tweak the charging voltage. Once you know the brand you wish to buy--email them and find out their recommendations.