[Novice Traveler]

  Anyone know if AGM (absorbed glass matt) batteries enjoy a quicker/safer charge rate than ordinary lead/acid types? I'm figuring on an 8 hour charge rate (total) for generic 8D Batteries....are sealed-type batteres in general quicker on the recharge and if so, how much?

[The Newell]

Novice Traveler,

It depends a lot on who manufactured the AGM. None should be charged at above 14.4 volts and some have current limits, the lowest I've seen being c/3. c/3 means that AH rating divided by 3 is the max charge current. Most makers, of AGM and flooded cells, permit c/1 charging. You should not deplete charge below 50 % for maximum life. So if You recharge at C/3 and limit discharges for max life your charge cycle should be just above 2 hours.

[GringoPhil]

go to www.lifelinebatteries.com click on the RV Batteries and it will give the info you need

Gringo

[NewellCrazy]

With Lifeline batteries, you can pump in as much amperage on charging as you want as long as the voltage doesn't exceed 14.4 volts on a 12volt. I have 8D Lifeline AGM's and when they are at 50% charge, or right at 12.0 volts, my 130 amp inverter set at 90 amp can recharge the batteries to full float in 2-2 1/2 hours. Much faster than the old wet cells. I REALLY enjoy Lifeline AGM batteries!!

[prairieschooner]

I chose Golf Cart type for my House Bank, just saying.

[Jack Fouts]

Prairieschooner what is your charge rate on the golf cart batteries and what brand are they. Always curious to know what others are running. I'm still running Interstate deeps.

[Novice Traveler]

Thank you people. I guess since the AGM's allow for a much quicker recharging cycle which may mean less APU generator time which will save diesel fuel which over the life of the batteries may pay for themselves just in the $fuel saved$ recharging the things. Longterm boondocking dry camping. The overall equations are now looking very good. Thanks again.

Novice Traveler

[truk4u]

Like others have said, a bank of 4 to 6 batteries, 4 or 8D's discharged to 50%, 12.2 volts at a Bulk/Absorption charge not exceeding 14.4 volts for Lifelines will take about 2 1/2 to 3 hours to charge to float. Many variables due to inverters, but that's a good example of charge time.

[Jack Fouts]

I am wanting to compare the charge rate of the golf cart batteries vs. the AGM's on average?

[2StrokeDiesel]

Cost vs. usage is almost a personal thing. I have had several people in the battery business tell me that the "Best bang for the buck" is a standard 6 volt lead-acid golf cart batteries.