AGM Battery Equalization, Xantrex and things of that nature

[rob_gendreau]

The devil is in the details.

For example, I have an older Progressive Dynamics Intellipower converter; it has an add-on smart charger SMB provided me after I got the van (for free, thanks!). It does the normal three-stage charging, and has a "equalization" mode for desulfating. I'm using AGM batteries, and the standard line is to not equalize them (as noted many manufacturers specify that you check the fluid during the process to insure you don't do harm and you obviously can't check a sealed battery).

But looking at the details of the charger we see that the max pulses are at 14.6 volts, which is about the max you can use on an AGM. If you look at some desulfaters or read about desulfating regular lead acids you'll see voltage over 15. That would cook an AGM with probably unpleasant results. But on the other hand the 14.6 probably won't quickly desulfate the battery. But since I leave them trickling for days on end it may at least prevent it, which is most effective in the long run.

Batteries will go bad, even with good care. Good maintenance is your best bet.

[daveb]

There sure seems to be some info that clashes here. Some of these micro processor type chargers claim the stuff they sell is designed for AGM's and say it's safe yet I was told by Lifeline themselves not to equalize my AGM batteries. Perhaps there are new charging methods that won't harm them. I'm willing to try something out on my Optima...got nothing to loose but I won't be trying this on my good batteries.

[NRL]

Originally Posted by daveb

There sure seems to be some info that clashes here. Some of these micro processor type chargers claim the stuff they sell is designed for AGM's and say it's safe yet I was told by Lifeline themselves not to equalize my AGM batteries. Perhaps there are new charging methods that won't harm them. I'm willing to try something out on my Optima...got nothing to loose but I won't be trying this on my good batteries.

I think they all might be using different techniques...
For instance, the CTEK charger that I use for my cars (AMG,etc) has that pulse technology also.. but I don't think they are all the same..

[daveb]

I agree and my guess is that the battery manufactures haven't researched all the companies making these type chargers and are more incline to suggest not to use them. Whether or not they work is more of a tried that and it worked or didn't.