Posts: 2754
Location: Mauston, Wisconsin | Yes, digital voltage check is valuable tool both when charging and after charging.
Now a lot during charging is related to type of battery and the charger. However, generally these are the voltages you should see.
VRLA- sealed no maintenance. Charging -> 13.6-13.8VDC Resting -> 12.7VDC
Wet cell or starting battery - Charging ->13.8 - 14.4 VDC Resting -> 12.7VDC
Resting/open circuit = 8-24hrs after charging or charger shuts off.
The battery resting voltage will slowly drift down as the battery ages over time, when it hits ~12.4VDC you might want to consider a new battery or have it checked for capacity.
Yes, I know its a 12V battery, so why consider replacement if its at 12.4 to 12.5VDC???? Answer: because the 12VDC is the nominal jar voltage (marketing), a 12V lead-acid battery actually has a open circuit voltage of ~12.7VDC when its fully charged and at 100% capacity.
http://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/nominal
Have fun!
Al |
