AC to DC Battery Charging Type Selection

[Simplicity]

I have two types of batteries hanging around my house, and I want to use them for the 12v side of my bus and around my house until they are no longer viable.

I have six (6) Data-Safe 12hx150R-FR. These are used as battery backup for electronics.

I have two (2) Interstate hybrid starter / deep cell Type 31 ECL 700cca.

I've researched both and they are sealed, so VRLA/SLA, but neither say AGM or Gel specifically. Are there SLA batteries that do not use mats or gel technology?

Bottom line, I want to buy a 120v AC to DC battery charger for home and use the charger of the inverter/charger on the bus to charge and maintain these batteries.

What battery type do I choose? FLA, SLA, AGM or Gel? Since they are all Lead Acid technology, does it really matter?

Oh, I won't be mixing the two brands.

Thanks.

[roach711]

Since lithium batteries are becoming more common you'll be best served with a charger that can be used on all the common chemistries and all of them want different charging voltages and charging profiles.

I'm about to pull the trigger on a Victron IP65 charger that will handle all the present chemistries.

[Simplicity]

Understood.

Yet, for this issue I'm wanting to know specifically, with the batteries I listed, what type to select when I set up my AC to DC charger (home) and my inverter charger (bus).

[roach711]

Best bet is to contact the individual manufacturers for charging profiles for your different batteries.

AGM likes somewhat lower bulk mode voltage than FLA but I have no idea what the hybrid batteries prefer.

[Simplicity]

Good suggestion. Thanks!

[john61ct]

SLA that is not AGM or GEL won't last long deep cycling anyway.

Use the AGM setting.

For LI you should look for charge sources with user-custom adjustments, not a limited set of canned choices.

[Simplicity]

Originally Posted by john61ct

SLA that is not AGM or GEL won't last long deep cycling anyway.

Use the AGM setting.

For LI you should look for charge sources with user-custom adjustments, not a limited set of canned choices.

AGM it is. Thanks.

Yes, I get that I'm not using them for their intended purpose. Yet, they are still good batteries and can be used for some 12v shed and bus lighting, greenhouse and bus water pumps. I just don't want to waste them completely.

I'm still not sure what house batteries I'm going to use. I do know LI is getting more affordable if you are willing to DIY, yet as you pointed out, there's more to charging and maintaining them then throwing them on a charger/maintainer.

[john61ct]

There are only a handful of known-good makers in each category suitable for long-term deep cycling usage.

All publish data sheets and have support available to guide you in proper care.

Do not expect infrastructure purchases to be lower than the cost of the House bank.