Lifeline GPL-27T AGM Battery Upgrade
Late last week I placed an order at bestconverter.com for two Lifeline GPL-27T AGM batteries to replace the two NAPA batteries the dealer installed in my 2016 Northern-Lite 8'11". The big brown truck...
Forum Discussion
I am pretty familiar with Lifeline batteries and their charge recommendations. They do say a charge rate of 0.2C is desirable (and most campers would have that in their line charger), but also say that an alternative is a slower rate for a longer period. As for as I am aware, Lifeline alone among AGM manufacturers allows a low equalization charge, but they do not recommend it routinely (as flooded cell manufacturers do), rather only when the battery is already showing signs of sulfation.
I have had numerous Lifeline battery banks up to 900 AH, the capability to charge them at over 1.5C, and full instrumentation. My experience, and that of most independent tests is: charge them to the right voltages (temp comp is desirable), charge them fully periodically even though that takes 8 or more hours, and they will last a long time.
All that said, when I replace the 10 year old Lifeline bank on the boat, I think I will try Firefly foamed carbon, specifically because of their unique ability to withstand partial state of charge for long periods without any performance degradation, independently tested and confirmed.
I have had numerous Lifeline battery banks up to 900 AH, the capability to charge them at over 1.5C, and full instrumentation. My experience, and that of most independent tests is: charge them to the right voltages (temp comp is desirable), charge them fully periodically even though that takes 8 or more hours, and they will last a long time.
All that said, when I replace the 10 year old Lifeline bank on the boat, I think I will try Firefly foamed carbon, specifically because of their unique ability to withstand partial state of charge for long periods without any performance degradation, independently tested and confirmed.
