AGM batteries have surged in popularity due to their ability to better handle the electronic demands of a vehicle. However, can this powerful battery be jump-started? Here, we will take a look at what an AGM battery is and whether you can jump-start one.
What Is An AGM Battery?
An AGM battery is also known as an absorbed glass mat battery. This type of battery is designed to handle the increasing amount of electronics in modern vehicles. The unique design features of an AGM battery are glass mats that cushion the ultra-thin lead plates.
Because of this unique setup, AGM battery manufacturers can squeeze more lead into the battery and create more power. Additionally, AGM batteries have valves that regulate the amount of hydrogen and oxygen that escapes during charging.
Can You Jump Start An AGM Battery?
Yes. You can use a jump-starter with an AGM. This is because the jump starters are AGM batteries. They act as the extension of the car battery itself. Therefore, there is no risk of raising the battery’s voltage above the specified limit.
How To Properly Jump Start An AGM Battery
While you can jump-start an AGM battery, you will want to make sure that you follow the right steps to ensure that you do not cause any permanent damage.
1). Make sure that the jump-starter is in AGM mode
Some jump starters will have what is known as an “AGM mode.” Be sure that the jump starter is in AGM mode before you use the jump starter on your AGM battery.
2). Avoid letting the AGM battery go down to 0% charge
You will be able to jump-start an AGM battery if it falls below the 50% level. However, you will want to make sure that your AGM battery does not fall to the 0% charge level. This will cause damage to the battery.
3). Do not jump start a damaged battery
Be sure to check your AGM battery before you try to jump-start it. If you notice that the body of the battery is damaged, do not attempt to jump-start it.
4). After jumpstarting the battery, let the can run for 15 minutes
After you have jump-started the battery, you will want to let the car run for at least 15 minutes. This will allow the battery enough time to charge up.
Top AGM Jumpstarters
If you have an AGM battery, then it may be a good idea to have a jump starter with an AGM setting. Here is a look at several highly rated AGM jump starters.
Definitely check out the best jump starters available on Amazon.
1). Schumacher – DSR141 – 2000 Amp AGM Jump Starter
If you are looking for a pro-level AGM jump starter at a reasonable price, then the Schumacher DSR141 is going to be an excellent choice. This powerful AGM jump starter features a high output AGM battery, 2A external automatic charger, 12 Volt DC outlet, and digital display as well as reverse connection warning. The relatively small size makes it an excellent choice when you are on the road.
2). NAPA 1000A Jump Start
On a budget? Then you will want to check out the NAPA 1000A Jump Start. This bargain-priced jump starter includes metal clamps, lightweight, yet durable construction and an LED work light. This jump starter is designed to work with most motorcycles and vehicles. The operating voltage is 12V with 1000 peak battery amps.
3). Viking 1700 Peak Amp Jump Starter
If you have a powerful vehicle, then you will want to make sure you have a jump starter with a high peak amp rating. That’s where the Viking 1700 Peak Amp Jump Starter comes in. This is a 12-volt charger that delivers up to 1700 peak amps. The Viking 1700 Peak Amp Jump Starter features a rugged enclosure and it can also be used to charge phones and mobile devices with its USB inputs.
When shopping for an AGM jump starter, be sure to carefully check out the features on the product page and be sure to read several of the customer reviews.
Frequently Asked Questions
You may have some other questions about charging an AGM battery. Here are some answers to frequently asked questions.
Can you charge an AGM battery that has not been used in over a year?
There is a chance that you have had your vehicle sitting in storage for a while. If you did not have a trickle charger on the battery, then it obviously will not start. This does not mean that you will not be able to jump-start the battery. As long as the AGM battery is not damaged, you may be able to jump-start it.
What happens if you jump-start an AGM battery with a normal charger?
While it is possible to charge an AGM battery with a normal charger, it is not recommended. That is because you will have to manually switch off the charger when you estimate that the AGM battery is full. With an AGM charger, you will be able to charge the battery in stages.
Can you use a trickle charger on an AGM battery?
If you don’t intend to use your vehicle for a while, then you can use a trickle charger on your AGM battery. You don’t need to use a special type of trickle charger for an AGM battery. You can pretty much use any type of trickle charger.
How do I know if my AGM charger is bad?
The best way to gauge the health of an AGM battery is to put it on a battery tester. When putting your AGM battery on a tester make sure that the tester is on an AGM setting. If you don’t have a battery tester, then you can take your vehicle to a service center for a battery testing service.
REFERENCE:
https://driving.ca/column/corner-wrench/your-corner-wrench-agm-batteries
https://www.interstatebatteries.com/blog/what-is-an-agm-battery-and-whats-the-big-deal
