Storing LiFePO4 Batteries: A Guide to Proper Handling and Storage
, by Sally Zhuang, 4 min reading time
Proper storage is crucial to ensure the longevity of LiFePO4 batteries and avoid potential hazards. Lithium iron phosphate batteries are becoming increasingly popular due to their high energy density, lightweight design and environmental friendliness compared to traditional lead-acid batteries. However, to maximize their benefits, it is important to understandhow to store them properly.
This article provides important details on how to properly store and handle LiFePO4 batteries to extend their lifespan.
Why is proper storage of lithium-ion and LiFePO4 batteries important?
Even when disconnected from external devices, internal chemical reactions can occur in batteries over time. LiFePO4 batteries require fewer safety precautions than lithium-ion batteries because they use stable iron compounds that do not produce dangerous gases or explode. Still, it's a significant investment and proper storage ensures your investment doesn't go to waste.
How do you store LiFePO4 batteries?
The intended storage period is a crucial factor that influences the storage of LiFePO4 batteries. Here are some important techniques for storing these batteries:
Turn off: Most manufacturers recommend turning off lithium batteries before storage. For Motorhomes and caravans it is necessary to disconnect the [+] and [-] cables connected to the battery terminals.
Avoid heat sources: Keep lithium batteries away from heat sources, radiators or other heat sources. These batteries contain chemicals that can overheat and explode at high temperatures.
Dry storage: Make sure the battery is stored in a dry place and no leakage or corrosive gases can enter. The temperature range for storing LiFePO4 batteries should be between -20℃ to 35℃/-4℉ to 95℉.
Short-term storage: When storing LiFePO4 batteries for short periods of time, charge them to at least 50% of their maximum capacity and store them in a dry place. The ideal temperature range for short-term storage is 10℃ to 30℃/50℉ to 86℉.
Long-Term Storage: To maintain the health of LiFePO4 batteries during long-term storage, keep them at freezing temperatures. It is important to consider the self-discharge rate of the battery and it is recommended to charge the battery to 40% to 50% of its capacity before storing it.
Ideal storage temperature for LiFePO4 batteries
The ideal temperature range for storing LiFePO4 batteries depends on the storage period:
Less than 30 days: -20℃ to 60℃/-4℉ to 140℉
30 to 90 days: -10℃ to 35℃/14℉ to 95℉
More than 90 days: 15℃ to 35℃/59℉ to 95℉
Storing LiFePO4 batteries in hot or cold weather
Avoid storing LiFePO4 batteries in extremely hot temperatures or direct sunlight as this may cause internal overheating and lead to brownouts or battery fires. Likewise, while extremely low temperatures can slow down the internal chemical reactions within the battery, very low temperatures can cause some battery components, such as the plastic casing, to break.
Frequently asked questions about storing LiFePO4 batteries
1. Should LiFePO4 batteries be disconnected from the system when not in use?
Yes, we recommend disconnecting the LiFePO4 battery system from the device when not in use. It is not enough to simply turn off the main switch. It is recommended to disconnect the battery cable from the terminal before storing the battery.
If the battery remains connected even in sleep mode, there will still be a small amount of power loss, which may negatively affect the battery health or the device connected to the battery. Some components, such as sensors, often bypass the main circuit breaker.
2.Does a LiFePO4 battery need to be fully charged before storage?
It is not necessary to fully charge a LiFePO4 battery before storage, as storing a battery with 100% charge for an extended period of time can affect battery health. It is recommended to charge the battery to 50% capacity before storing it.
3.How long can a LiFePO4 battery be stored?
LiFePO4 batteries can be safely stored for up to one year without significant degradation, provided they are stored under the appropriate conditions mentioned above and their voltage is checked regularly. LiFePO4 batteries have a low self-discharge rate and can retain most of their charge capacity during storage. It is recommended to charge them every three months if stored for more than three months.
Conclusion
Compared to other lithium-ion or sealed lead-acid batteries, LiFePO4 batteries have a lower self-discharge rate and are easier to store. However, proper storage is crucial to maintaining their health and lifespan. While the chemical composition of these batteries is elastic, the physical components remain vulnerable to environmental influences.
Adhering to the above guidelines is sufficient to properly store most lithium-ion batteries, especially LiFePO4 batteries. Finally, purchasing high-quality batteries such as those from Power Queen's extensive catalog ensures that the storage process is more convenient and comes with a 5-year warranty.
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