AGM Batteries June 08, 2016, 05:39:14 pm It is time to change out the AGM batteries in our auxiliary vehicle (Sportsmobile). They were installed in early 2003. Is there anything special that I should know about AGM's that might have changed in the last 13+ years? Any suggestions about where to purchase?Thanks for any sage advice.Judie
Re: AGM Batteries Reply #1 – June 09, 2016, 01:38:03 am As far as I know, there haven't been any major changes in AGM battery technology in the last decade or so. Most RVers I know who opt for AGMs are using Concorde's Lifeline batteries. Over the past couple of years I've bought a number of them (more than I like to remember, due to several sets suffering premature deaths due to a failing solar controller) from Powerstride Battery. Their prices seem reasonable, delivery to the Southwest is fairly quick, and shipping is free. I'm currently using four Lifeline GPL 31XT AGM batteries purchased from Powerstride.Northern Arizona Wind & Sun is another source I've heard good things about, although it appears they only carry Concorde's less expensive Sun Xtender AGM batteries, which have a shorter warranty than the Lifelines when used in an RV. If you're looking to save money, they may be worth considering, since they are overall pretty similar to the Lifeline batteries. I've used Sun Xtender batteries in the past, and had no complaints about them.
Re: AGM Batteries Reply #2 – June 09, 2016, 01:36:30 pm Thank you for such good references. We have the Concorde Lifeline units at present.Currently we have an ancient converter of some ilk in the Sportsmobile that charges the house batteries and provides DC power to the DC components when plugged in. This is the original equipment and dates back to the days before AGM batteries were common, therefore we are concerned that it can use too high a voltage when charging AGM batteries. Giving some thought to replacing this converter with a unit that has at least an "AGM Setting" and perhaps a more sophisticated charging profile, if there is such a beast at a reasonable price point, and if it were more or less plug compatible with the original equipment. Any ideas?This is not going to involve having a full-up inverter/charger system like we have in the Lazy Daze, but merely a replacement for the current converter, with some charging intelligence added.Thanks for any thoughts.Judie ******************************** Quote from: Andy Baird - June 09, 2016, 01:38:03 amAs far as I know, there haven't been any major changes in AGM battery technology in the last decade or so. Most RVers I know who opt for AGMs are using Concorde's Lifeline batteries. Over the past couple of years I've bought a number of them (more than I like to remember, due to several sets suffering premature deaths due to a failing solar controller) from Powerstride Battery. Their prices seem reasonable, delivery to the Southwest is fairly quick, and shipping is free. I'm currently using four Lifeline GPL 31XT AGM batteries purchased from Powerstride.Northern Arizona Wind & Sun is another source I've heard good things about, although it appears they only carry Concorde's less expensive Sun Xtender AGM batteries, which have a shorter warranty than the Lifelines when used in an RV. If you're looking to save money, they may be worth considering, since they are overall pretty similar to the Lifeline batteries. I've used Sun Xtender batteries in the past, and had no complaints about them.
Re: AGM Batteries Reply #3 – June 09, 2016, 02:23:46 pm Judie, is there a specific reason why you want to stay with AGMs? It's true that AGMs and "old technology" converters and charge controllers don't play well together; if you didn't want to replace the converter, maybe less expensive and less "particular", i.e., non-AGM, batteries might be a choice?
Re: AGM Batteries Reply #4 – June 09, 2016, 02:33:33 pm The batteries are under the sofa where I sit and sleep - not a place I would choose for wet cell batteries! ;-> Virtual hugs, Judie
Re: AGM Batteries Reply #5 – June 10, 2016, 03:03:25 pm Quote from: Judie Ashford - June 09, 2016, 01:36:30 pmCurrently we have an ancient converter of some ilk in the Sportsmobile that charges the house batteries and provides DC power to the DC components when plugged in. This is the original equipment and dates back to the days before AGM batteries were common, therefore we are concerned that it can use too high a voltage when charging AGM batteries.You're right to be concerned. AGM batteries have many advantages, but they are vulnerable to damage from overcharging (especially excessive voltages). A replacement multistage converter with AGM-optimized settings--such as one of the popular Progressive Dynamics models--will extend the life of your new batteries. Others here can undoubtedly provide specific model numbers.
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Topic: AGM Batteries (Read 295 times)
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