AGM Batteries and Converter

[kmac7800]

I am getting new batteries, and decided that my lazy "you know what" wants to go with AGM batteries. Do I need to set my converter to be aware of AGM vs Flooded? I have a 2021 Paradigm 310RL. I am trying to save me from crawling around on the floor pulling my converter out if I do not need to, because my lazy "you know what" is also fat and hard to get down (and back up) on the floor

I do know I have to update my solar charger to be aware of the AGMs.

Thank you in advance!

//KMac

 

[Lantley]

This is not the answer to your question but why are you going with AGM.
Lithium is really the way to go in this day and time. Lithium is just better all the way around for RV use. Not trying to challenge you or cause you any grief but why stick with AGM at this point

 

[Oregon_Camper]

Lithium is VERY close to same price as AGM/Flooded and you get 2x amp hours from them, as you get to use 100%.

The default for 2021 Alliance RV's was an AGM/Flooded converter. You won't have to do anything if you go the route.

 

[BryanValRox]

I would agree with previous comments, Lithium is the way to go. Your converter likely has a simple toggle switch to change, and your solar controller would need to be programmed for the change.

You will have an increased discharged capacity and also shed a few pounds from your overall weight.

While I am still using my original FLA battery (3rd season), I will be switching to Lithium when it is time to replace the FLA. I am interested in shedding the pounds.

 

[Ox262]

Yeah, Lithium is the way to go. I switched from a 65ah FLA to a 140ah Lithium. We don't boondock but I have no battery anxiety if the campground has a temporary power issue or when I turn on the fridge a day before our trip. And I sold the FLA battery that helped offset the cost of Lithium.

 

[kmac7800]

Thanks guys for your responses. I went with AGM as I only use the RV 3 weeks out of the year, and I live in the Tri-Cities, WA where it can get to 0 during the winter time and 100+ during the summer. Not sure if I want to depend on the newer auto-heated/cooling LI solutions, and I really do not want to remove my battery(s) every time I park the rig for a few months. It was not about cost or amp hours (IMHO), it was more about no maintenance, thus my decision to go AGM.

Having said that, when I replace these in a few years (my flooded batteries lasted 6 years with my limited maintenance), I will be retired and using the RV more, and will be more interested in boondocking (I currently do not do this at this time), and I will consider upgrading to LI batteries (or buying a new rig that has them).

I am still looking for a definitive "Yes you have to flip a switch on your converter" answer though.

Good luck and have fun!

//KMac

 

[BryanValRox]

So, in regard to your still looking for an answer comment.

In order to provide an accurate answer, we would need to know the make and model of your converter. Some converters have multiple charging profiles, and some have either or profiles.

 

[Oregon_Camper]

Thanks guys for your responses. I went with AGM as I only use the RV 3 weeks out of the year, and I live in the Tri-Cities, WA where it can get to 0 during the winter time and 100+ during the summer. Not sure if I want to depend on the newer auto-heated/cooling LI solutions, and I really do not want to remove my battery(s) every time I park the rig for a few months. It was not about cost or amp hours (IMHO), it was more about no maintenance, thus my decision to go AGM.

Not sure where you read that lithium needs to be removed when parking the RV (either in high heat or cold weather)....you don't. The BMS will do all this for you. I have not removed my batteries in our RV since I installed them 3 years ago and it gets hot and very cold here in Central Oregon.

Regarding your converter, you said you have a 2021 Alliance...that will support AGM/Flood by default from factory...no change needed. Now, if the prior owner had lithium, they might have flip DIP switch over to lithium profile. As Bryan said, if you give us the model number, we can help.

 

[kmac7800]

Well, I finally got out to the rig, and found that the converter was a Progressive Dynamics PD4560. With a little googling and going with Oregon_Camper's information, there is no switch needed to be flipped for AGMs. I programmed the Solar charger, and installed the new batteries.
Thanks!

//Karl

 

[fireman0175]

Any of you former wet cell folks tried using the Redodo 1v 200Ah or 300Ah LiFePO4 battery to replace my Trojan T-105 2 6-volts?

 

[Ox262]

I use a Redodo 140ah Lithium and it's been great. I used it in my previous RV and moved it over to my Delta. We don't boondock so 140ah is more than enough for us. It's been reliable, no issues.