12v batteries reading 14.18v

[Naio]

Yep, it's me, back with another question :-).

I double checked the voltage with a second voltmeter, and checked the first voltmeter on another battery. It seems that the 14.18v is reasonably accurate.

Does this mean something other than that my charger decided to overcharge the batteries?

Thank you for any insight.

[MrWizard]

14.8 is actually a good charging voltage for agm batteries in cold weather
What is the amps charge in, at this voltage

[Sam_Spade]

crcr wrote:
It is my understanding that to get an accurate reading of batteries, they should be at rest for several hours first -- that is, not being charged, and no loads for several hours, then take a reading.

THIS.
IF.....you are plugged into shore power OR the gen is running OR you have a "self contained" model and the engine is running......
You are NOT reading the battery but ARE reading the charging voltage.

To be reading the actual battery voltage, you must be sure that all the charging sources are OFF.....and have been off for at least a few minutes.

[wa8yxm]

Depending on the converter.. My Progressive Dynamics Wizard controlled unit every so often does a controlled "overcharge" and that looks like what you are seeing. This serves several functions.. It stirs things up a bit so you do not end up with very weak acid at the top and very strong at the bottom (Stratification is defeated) knocks a bit of sulfate off the plates (Desulfication) and equalizes charge across the cells.

However if it continues for long long periods of time. You have a problem. Or may have. I understand there is at least one brand that calls for that kind of voltage when charging... NO, sorry do not recall which.

[time2roll]

Naio wrote:
Does this mean something other than that my charger decided to overcharge the batteries?

List your secret somethings or even remind us what charger you have.

BTW how long has the charger been plugged in and charging?

14.18 might be normal.

[Lwiddis]

Agree...let them rest.

[crcr]

It is my understanding that to get an accurate reading of batteries, they should be at rest for several hours first -- that is, not being charged, and no loads for several hours, then take a reading.

[MDKMDK]

Might just be surface charge. How long since you stopped charging them, or driving around? Can you put a small load on them for a few minutes, like a 12V DC light, remove the load, then check the V number again?

[Ed_Gee]

modern chargers will charge a low battery at a Bulk rate, then at a Absorb rate - both which will exceed 14. Volts.....BUT they are supposed to drop down to 13.5 volts Float level when the battery reaches full charge. It the battery remains at 14.1 for more than a day you either have a bad battery or a bad charger, IMHO.