Camper trailer batteries.
 

Hi guys, just wondering how long a life you would expect to get from AGM batteries. I think mine are stuffed. Mine are approx 3+ years old and not coming up past 12.5 volts, usually 13.7. Been on permanent charge from the smaller of two solar panels for many moons no probs. Turned the Engel on a couple of weeks back, went downhill from there,( didn’t notice straight away). It’s a MDC Jackson if that helps. Will replace with same due to cost as they’re $250 each compared to lithium @ $1000. Thanks in advance for advice and comments. Due to head off after Xmas, but powered sites. Not using the WJ HO much due to fuel $ jeez.


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Batteries normally have a lifespan of around 4-5 years.

If you are unsure, take it to somewhere like Battery World and get a capacity test done. Most places will test your battery for free.

Ok thanks I’ll pull them out & get em checked


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I would expect an AGM to last from between 5 to 7 years as opposed to the usual 3 to 4 year life of a lead acid wet cell....

The manufacturer you mention would not (in my opinion) be likely to have installed a high quality unit, but happy to be proved wrong. Are they a well known battery brand?

Cheers.

Hi guys, just wondering how long a life you would expect to get from AGM batteries

As a guide, i have had lead acid DC batteries that have lasted 5-6 yrs. Even cheap non branded ones.

Need to keep an eye on DC batteries as can dry out and need to be refilled with water occasionally. Just pull off the covers and top up. Maintenance free ones can b a bit difficult to get off but use manpower!!!

Have 2 AGM batteries that have been on charge via solar panels for 3 yrs no probs.

I use Century brand (same as Repco and SCA). The AGMs r some brand knock offs I suspect but were way cheaper and doing the same job.

Where did u measure voltage of battery? At terminals? With voltmeter/multimeter? If u measure here u will get true voltage of battery. Then measure at input into Engel 2 c if same. If there is a difference then u have a voltage drop issue rather than battery issue. Make sure u r using thick wiring to avoid voltage drop.

It might be worth checking that the solar setup is not at fault . Maybe put the batteries on a mains charger and when charged see how long they will run the fridge till the volts drop to say 11.5v or so.
On the price point its hard to see any advantage with Lithium at a 1000 bucks each. I dont think lithium have a very long life span either if its measured in number of cycles.

Just charged the batteries up from the inbuilt Projecta 240v & they’ve come up to 13.7v, I’ll see if they’ll hold the charge. Had a motorcycle battery last 7yrs using c-tex tender. Will carry further checks, see if ican get a load tester, as they’re a pita to remove .
Can get AGMs for around $250. The trailer is 2019 build but the batteries are unbranded, been good till now just went downhill fast.
Thanks every body for your input’


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