[Explained] Solar Charge Controller Settings For AGM Battery
Solar chargers are as efficient as their equipment. If you miss one out, it will not only fall apart but will also damage your appliances. Apart from putting all of the inverters, solar panels, charger, and batteries, you also have to set the charge controller.
Depending on the type of battery you have, the settings are also different. So how do you set your solar charge controller settings for AGM battery, if you have one?
Well, you’ll have to set the maximum current to 50A per 100Ah battery, equalize the voltage to 14.40 volts, and so on. We are going to walk you through it all and also through some tips for better measures.
How To Set Solar Charger Controller Settings For AGM Battery
While lots of solar chargers come with default settings for different battery types like lithium, lead acid, gel, and AGM, some don’t. And without the proper settings, your solar panels will overcharge and even damage the batteries.
To avoid that from happening, you have to set the solar charger settings to your type of battery. Here is what you have to set for AGM batteries.
Maximum Charge Current Rate Should Be: 30%
The maximum charging current for an AGM battery is typically around 30% of its capacity. This helps to prevent overheating and premature wear.
Here’s a quick example:
If you have a 100Ah AGM battery, the maximum recommended charging current would be 30% of 100Ah, which is 30 amps.
Absorption Voltage Should Be: 14.4 -14.60 Volts
When your batteries are at the last charging stage, the charger will charge a bit slower than regular voltage. This is indicated by Absorption Voltage. Setting it above 14.60V will end up fast your batteries which will heat up and damage the battery.
Float Voltage Should Be: 14.40~15 Volts
For 12V deep-cycle AGM batteries at a regular operating temperature of 25°C:
Cycle charge voltage: 14.4V to 15.0V
Float charge voltage: 13.5V to 13.8V
Equalization Voltage Should Be: 15.5 ~ 16.3 Volts for 6 to 8 hours
To keep your AGM batteries performing to their fullest, the sulfation should be removed from the battery plates. Equalization does just that, keeping your battery healthy and running.
Bulk Voltage Offset Should Be: 0.10 Volt
This is the very first stage of charging when the charger determines to start rapidly charging the AGM battery. Setting it too low will take a long time for your batteries to charge while setting it too far up will end in heating and uncontrolled charging.
FAQs – Frequently Asked Questions and Answers
Can I use a solar charger on an AGM battery?
Yes, you can use a solar charger on an AGM battery. Just make sure you are using a charge controller with it, otherwise, you might damage your battery. And also the voltage should be adequate, or your AGM battery won’t charge at all.
What should solar controller settings be?
Solar controller settings differ from one battery to another. Lithium, Lead-acid, Gel, and AGM batteries have their own settings. Also, each battery manufacturer has their specific setting instructions. You will also find dedicated battery settings on your controller menu. Selecting the right type of battery will do you good.
Conclusion
The general settings of AGM batteries in solar chargers are always the same. But different battery manufacturers have different requirements and individual settings. Do make sure to read the manual along with the charger’s manual. It’s just a safety precaution so that you don’t damage your batteries.
