Can You Mix AGM and Lead Acid Batteries?
Lead acid batteries have been around for a very long time, and for good reason – they’re cheap and durable. But they’re also quite heavy and require regular maintenance. AGM (Absorbed Glass Mat) batteries are a newer technology that offer some advantages over lead acid batteries. They’re lighter and don’t require maintenance, but they’re also more expensive. So can you mix AGM and lead acid batteries?
Yes, you can mix AGM and lead acid batteries, but it’s not recommended. AGM batteries are designed to work with a charging system that provides a steady flow of current, while lead acid batteries are better suited for a charging system that provides a pulsed current. If you mix the two types of batteries, the AGM battery will likely discharge more quickly than the lead acid battery.
AGM and Lead Acid Battery Mixing
When used together, these two battery types can provide the best of both worlds, but it is important to understand how they work together and how to mix them properly.
Lead acid batteries work by sending a current through a liquid electrolyte, which causes a chemical reaction that creates energy. AGMs work differently; they use a glass mat to soak up the electrolyte, which allows them to be completely sealed off from the environment. This makes them less susceptible to damage from vibration or heat, making them ideal for use in small engines.
Advantages of Mixing AGM and Lead Acid Batteries
One of the advantages of using AGM batteries is that they can be used to replace lead acid batteries in applications where weight or space is limited. AGM batteries are also less likely to leak than lead acid batteries.
AGM batteries are sealed and can be mounted in any position, which makes them ideal for use in motorcycles, ATVs, snowmobiles, and boats. Lead acid batteries are less expensive and can deliver more power than AGM batteries.
Disadvantages of Mixing AGM and Lead Acid Batteries
There are a few disadvantages to mixing AGM and lead acid batteries. First, the two types of batteries have different charging requirements, so it can be difficult to find a charger that will work with both types. Second, the two types of batteries also have different discharge characteristics, which can lead to problems if one type is discharged more than the other. Finally, AGM batteries are more expensive than lead acid batteries, so using them in a battery bank can be more expensive.
AGM and Lead Acid Battery Mixing: Parallel Configuration
When AGM and lead acid batteries are mixed in a parallel configuration, both types of batteries are used to power the load. This setup is typically used when there is a need for more power, as it allows for the use of two different battery chemistries. The parallel configuration can also be helpful in cases where one battery is nearing the end of its life, as it will allow the other battery to take over and continue powering the load.
FAQ
Can you mix AGM batteries with regular batteries?
AGM batteries are designed to work specifically with lead-acid chargers. If you try to use a regular battery charger on an AGM battery, you could damage the battery.
Can you mix AGM and lead acid batteries in parallel?
Yes, you can mix AGM and lead-acid batteries in parallel, but it’s not recommended. AGM batteries are more sensitive to voltage fluctuations than lead-acid batteries, so if there is a problem with one of the batteries in the parallel set, it could damage the other batteries.
What is the main disadvantage of an AGM battery?
The main disadvantage of an AGM battery is its price. They are more expensive than other types of batteries.
Can you mix battery types?
Yes, you can mix battery types. However, it’s not recommended to mix different chemistries within the same battery pack. For example, it’s not recommended to combine lead acid and lithium ion batteries within the same pack.
Which is better lead acid or AGM?
AGM batteries are better than lead acid batteries because they have a longer life, are more resistant to vibration, and can be discharged down to 20% without damaging the battery.
Are AGM batteries better in cold weather?
AGM batteries are not better in cold weather, but they are better in colder weather. AGM batteries are more resistant to cold weather than traditional lead-acid batteries, but they will still experience a decrease in performance in very cold weather.
Related Video: How to Parallel Different types of Battery | Mix Size, Chemistry, Topology, Age, AH Rating
Final Words
In conclusion, AGM and lead acid batteries can be mixed, but it is not recommended. AGM batteries are more expensive than lead acid batteries, so it may not be worth the investment to mix them. Lead acid batteries should be used for applications that require a lot of power, while AGM batteries should be used for applications that require a longer lifespan. Thanks for reading!
