Sun Extender

[Coach Dad]

i wouldn't do that on mine, but who am i? think for a second as they warrant the batteries for 1yr. the batteries will easily last 1yr with abuse from eqing. many moons ago they did not even give an eq spec and that's because eqing could pop the vents. my recommendation would be an extended absorb charge if you don't suspect any problems with the batteries. one should exercise caution when you do go to do an eq charge and you should be there to listen for vents popping open. it wouldn't be real loud, but if you were to hear it then shut down the eq charging immediately. this does not save the day as some water escaped when it popped open.

most needs of eqing are from inequalities between the batteries possibly due to connections, unequal wiring, or minor differences in the batteries which should not be if all were purchased new in the same batch. track the voltages now and then (every 1 to 3 months would be good) of the individual batteries during a rest period. if there's a consistent irregularity in the voltages then try switching a low battery (by voltage) with a high battery. if that battery slot still shows up low then suspect the wires or connections to that slot otherwise the switching could physically force an equalization.

i need to do this for mine too as i'm long overdue.

of course be sure the voltages are set correctly for charging in the first place. i try for the middle of the road on the charge voltage range. the extended absorb charge, should you opt for that should go to the charge voltage top end of 2.4v per cell and that's before temp compensation.

Thanks Niel... I will follow your advice... after all your batteries lasted 8 plus years.

Another question for you if I may.... I've got my Absorb Voltage set to 28.6 Volts with Temp Compensation 0.06 from -30 to +80 Degrees F (as recommended by the Concorde Customer Service Rep)
I've noticed that when the batteries are in Absorb, the charge controller is indicating a voltage of over 29 volts. (temps below 70F) is that normal? I was assuming that it had to do with the Temp Compensation.

[Coach Dad]

So what seems to be the consensus on these AGM batteries? I see some of you guys have these and I have a friend seriously considering some right now.

Sorry 65DegN- I don't mean to hijack this thread with all my questions. I'm hoping that some of the replies will help you decide.

[niel]

off topic it isn't as it is about sunxtenders, but i concur that i do not want to monopolize the thread with your (coachdads) concerns. i will say that i am confused by the .06 and you may have misunderstood them as i believe it is 4mv or .004v per degree c per cell. you may be overcompensating.