Solar/battery set up?

[Chris51]

As my L/B"s are 5 yrs old and don't seem to be holding charge like they used to-I am looking into a diofferent set up.My needs are Propex htr/gas fridge /LED lights /small Cello 12v TV /gas hob+grille /and a bit of radio.I have split charge /80 amp solar panel and cheap 2 battery charge controller.At present I have 2x 110 lead/acid sealed batteries and wonder if its best to have one "high discharge "(AGM )?) 130ah battery instead.I know its been discussed before but seems a bit misleading.Any ideas ?

 

[funflair]

Never tried AGM but a lot of people don't speak highly of them, If you want to give them a try make sure that your charging devices are OK with AGM, I think a better option would be good lead acid or if you want to push the budget Gel again check your charger for Gel setting. You dont sound like a big user 20 2x80ah Gel or 2x100 or 110 lead acid should be loads.

Martin

 

[two]

Your problem is that your current batteries don't hold charge any more. The capacity you replace them with will depend on your usage and the length of time you are without solar input. As funflair says, your demand appears modest so you may not need greater capacity. I'd replace like-for-like and then everything you currently have should be compatible.
If it ain't broke, don't mend it.

 

[pappajohn]

My personal choice... A pair of 110ah lead acids.

AGMs are going out of favour plus you need a different charger if yours doesn't have the AGM selection option