How To Charge An AGM Battery Using The Alternator

Question:

I have the same panel and just Changed out my lead acid house battery to 92 amp hour AGM. I see, from your answer, my panel is ok to charge AGM’s. It’s my understanding because I have a lead acid starting battery, the charging profile of my alternators regulator will only charge at the lead acid batteries rate, which is lower than my new AGM, thus never getting completely charged while driving. Anything to be concerned about? I know I can install a DC to DC charger, but I’m looking for the easiest way to do this without harming the alternator and making my AGM Last. Installing a DC DC charger will require some re-wiring And relocation of components, which I don’t care to do. Would two AGM batteries be better? 1 house, 1 start

asked by: John

Helpful Expert Reply:

The Progressive Dynamics Mighty Mini AC/DC Panel and Converter/Smart Charger # PD4060K is only charging your AGM battery while connected to shore power. Converters like this panel run off of AC current and convert it to DC to recharge the battery.

The only way to charge your battery while on the go would be a DC to DC charger, like you were already looking into, or a solar panel system, with the easiest being the DC to DC Charger. If you're talking about a motorhome then the house battery and start battery would be separated and only the start battery would be getting charged from the alternator.

I recommend installing the Redarc In-Vehicle BCDC Battery Charger - Dual Input - DC to DC - 12V/24V - 25 Amp # 331-BCDC1225D. This charger will charge your house battery with your start battery and won't require you to move components around. You'll have to run some wires between each component with some inline fuses # 331-FK40, but overall it will be an easy installation. I've attached a video below to help you in this process.

expert reply by: Kevin C