An AGM battery, or absorbent glass mat battery, is actually a extra superior model of a lead-acid battery. There are variations between AGM and customary lead-acid batteries, considered one of which being the best way during which AGM batteries are constructed. The absorbent glass mat refers back to the fiber lining which sits between the constructive and unfavorable battery terminals, and absorbs the battery acid.
As a result of distinction in development, the method in charging an AGM battery is totally different – primarily as a result of they’re extra delicate to voltage and cost charges than customary batteries. The very first thing to do is to accumulate an AGM-compatible battery charger. Secondly, earlier than eradicating the battery from the automotive, you’ll be able to connect a backup energy supply to the OBD-II port within the automotive. This can preserve your automobile settings the identical, by protecting the automotive’s pc alive when you take away and cost the battery.
Subsequent, in case your charger permits you to, choose both AGM or absorbed and choose 12V in case you can. Guaranteeing the indicator lights are displaying AGM or absorbed, join the charger to the battery’s posts. It may possibly take usually between two and eight hours for an AGM battery to totally cost, and when it’s absolutely charged, flip the charger off and take away the clamps rigorously. Your AGM battery is now absolutely charged and able to be put again into use.
Tricks to bear in mind when charging an AGM battery
In case your battery charger does supply modes for various battery varieties, be sure you use them. Simply plugging a charger that is set-up for traditional batteries onto an AGM battery will work, however it’s going to solely cost the battery as much as roughly 80%. Doubtlessly, the best way during which a charger works when not in a mode tailor-made to AGM batteries can really trigger harm to your battery.
It is also value figuring out that, for any lead-acid battery, charging at a decrease price of amps is at all times preferrred. Whereas extra amps will cost the battery sooner, this may trigger extra warmth, which might shorten the battery’s lifespan. When charging a battery, it is also clever to put on some primary safety — similar to security gloves and glasses — and to recollect to take away any jewelry too, as not doing so may trigger you to choose up an electrical shock.
In case your battery has suffered from sulfation, or has merely been sitting absolutely discharged for too lengthy, it may be previous saving. Should you personal a wise charger which affords zero-volt charging or a desulfation characteristic, this may very well be value making an attempt, however do not be shocked if an previous and poorly maintained battery is match just for disposal. If that is the case, be sure you get rid of your previous battery correctly earlier than heading out and shopping for a brand new one.
