How to Optimize the Life of LiFePO4 Batteries?

LiFePO₄ batteries are widely used for their stability and environmental protection, but if you want to extend their service life, you can start from the following aspects.

Ⅰ. Charging

Avoid overcharging

● Continuous charging beyond the maximum charging voltage of the battery will accelerate battery aging. If your battery pack has (BMS), it is designed to prevent this situation. If not, then you need to use the original standard charger or a compliant charger and charge according to the maximum charging voltage of the battery.

Charging current

● Choosing the right charging current is critical. Too much current (high rate charging) will cause the battery to heat up, generate more heat, increase internal resistance, and affect life. Try to use a charging current below 0.5C (C is the battery capacity). For example, for a 10000mAh battery, it is better to control the charging current within 5A.

II. Discharge

Avoid overdischarge

● Do not discharge the battery below the cut-off voltage (2.5V). Frequent deep discharge will damage the internal structure of the battery. Try to charge it as soon as possible after each use.

Control the discharge rate

● Low rate discharge helps to extend the life. For example, use it in low-power devices instead of high-power devices. The battery will age quickly under high-power use.

III. Storage method

Ambient temperature

● Lithium batteries perform better in the appropriate temperature range (0 - 45°C charging, - 20 - 60°C discharging). Too high or too low temperature will affect the battery life. It can be placed in a cool and dry place when not in use.

Power storage status

● For batteries that are not used for a long time, it is recommended to charge to 30% - 50% of the power for storage, so as to avoid damage to the battery due to long-term low power (too low after self-discharge) or high power (risk of overcharging).

IV. Battery maintenance

Regular inspection

● Check the appearance of the battery for bulging, leakage, etc., which are often the initial signs before battery failure.

Cleaning battery terminals

● Keep the battery terminals clean to avoid heating and other problems caused by poor contact.

Following these methods, the service life of LiFePO₄ batteries can be optimized to a certain extent, allowing it to play a better role in our electrical equipment.