Extending the life of lithium-ion batteries involves understanding and implementing several key practices:
1. Avoid Deep Discharges
- Partial Discharge: Avoid letting your lithium-ion battery drop below 20% charge if possible. Instead, recharge it more frequently between uses. Partial discharges reduce stress on the battery and are not harmful like with older battery technologies (e.g., nickel-based batteries) that had a “memory effect”.
- Limit Depth of Discharge (DoD): For extended life, maintain a mid-state-of-charge (around 50%) when not in use or during storage. This strategy maximizes longevity by reducing stress on the cells.
2. Optimize Charging Habits
- Charge Voltage: Lowering the charge voltage can extend the life of lithium-ion batteries. For example, charging to 4.10V instead of the typical 4.20V can more than double the cycle life, though this reduces capacity slightly.
- Partial Charging: Charge your batteries up to 80% if you don’t need full capacity. This method reduces the highest voltage stress that occurs at full charge.
- Avoid Overcharging: Most modern devices automatically stop charging once the battery reaches full capacity, but it’s still important not to leave them unused at full charge for extended periods.
3. Manage Operating and Storage Temperatures
- Cool Temperatures: Store your batteries in a cool, dry place, ideally around 59°F to 68°F. This reduces the self-discharge rate and extends life.
- Avoid Extreme Temperatures: Both very hot and cold conditions can harm lithium-ion batteries. Use them within a safe temperature range (usually between 32°F and 95°F).
4. Monitor and Use Smart Battery Management
- Smart Systems: Use devices with smart battery management systems (BMS) to monitor and balance cells. This ensures that no cell is overcharged or undercharged, prolonging overall battery health.
- Maintenance: Follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for charging, discharging, and storing batteries.
5. Store Batteries Properly
- Partial Charge: Store batteries with a charge level between 40% and 50%. This approach reduces chemical stress and balances the battery’s potential over time.
- Keep Them Dry: Moisture can lead to chemical reactions that degrade the battery, so store them in a dry environment.
By following these practices, you can significantly extend the lifespan of your lithium-ion batteries.
Original article by NenPower, If reposted, please credit the source: https://nenpower.com/blog/how-can-i-extend-the-life-of-my-lithium-ion-batteries/
