3 Bank Chargers - Type of Battery

[Bassn7]

My standard battery charger has a switch for starting or deep cycle charging. Does the 3 bank charger know if it's charging a specific type of battery? Does it care? Does it matter for battery life?

Marty

 

[JoLin]

Actually, I hope someone can give a definitive answer. The only 'switch-ability' that makes any sense to me would be based on battery construction- flooded vs. AGM vs. Gel Cell. If the battery is a flooded lead cell, for example, to my mind it ahouldn't matter whether it's deep cycle or starting. Flooded is flooded. AGM is AGM. Gel cell is gel cell.

My .02

 

[mr 88]

Depends on what make 3 bank charger your talking about. Pretty vague question without more info. The 3 bank should have all the info on the packaging box or instructions. If you have none of that google make and model and you will get your answer.Generally speaking the lower the amps while on charge equals a deeper charge. A switch for starting means high amps to give the battery a quick jolt so it turns the engine over.Does not mean for "starting" battery vs deep cycle battery.

 

[alldodge]

Lead acid deep cycle bats should be charged slower the starting. The charger doesn't know unless you tell it with the switch. Does it really matter in the long run, usually not, but won't hurt

 

[JoLin]

AllDodge, I have yet to find any difference between a starting battery and a deep cycle battery other than capacity and the degree to which each can be safely discharged. As far as charging is concerned, I stand by my previous statement. A flooded lead acid battery benefits from a specific charge profile. As does an AGM. As does a Gel Cell. Doesn't matter if it's deep cycle or starting.

If somebody has a link to an expert source (like a battery manufacturer) that contradicts my opinion, I'll be glad to change my tune. I've been unable to find one.

My .02