How to Properly Store Your LiFePO4 Battery

LiFePO4 batteries have become the most popular choice due to their stable performance, high safety, and ease of installation. However, proper storage is crucial when these batteries are not in use to maintain their longevity and performance.

Why Store LiFePO4 Batteries Properly?

Proper storage of LiFePO4 batteries is essential to prevent over-discharge, which can damage the battery and lead to financial loss. Improper storage can also limit battery performance. While frequent users might not often consider storage, those who use batteries seasonally, like for summer camping, should pay close attention to how they store their LiFePO4 batteries during idle periods.

How to Store LiFePO4 Batteries

1. Storage Environment: Ensure the storage area is dry and well-ventilated year-round. Avoid extremely hot or cold environments.

2. State of Charge (SOC): Store the battery with an SOC of 50% or above, but avoid full SOC. This is the optimal storage capacity.

Summer Storage:

• Due to higher temperatures, LiFePO4 batteries have a higher self-discharge rate of about 3-4% per month.
• Store in a cool indoor location to avoid overheating.

Winter Storage:

• The self-discharge rate is lower in winter, around 2-3% per month.
• Store the battery indoors at temperatures higher than room temperature, especially if it can reach -20°C. Extremely low temperatures are not ideal for batteries.

3. Disconnect Loads: When storing, disconnect all loads from the battery. Avoid storing the battery with the BMS/inverter/charger connected, as this can accelerate battery discharge. If necessary, use a battery protector.

4. Rebalancing: Rebalance the battery when you re-enable it after storage.

Storage Time and Temperature Recommendations:

• 1 month: 0°C to 40°C
• 3 months: -10°C to 35°C
• 6 months: -10°C to 25°C

It's advisable to perform a complete charge-discharge cycle every six months to maintain battery performance.

Summary

Understanding the advantages of LiFePO4 batteries is important, but so is knowing how to store them properly. Correct storage practices can effectively increase the lifespan and maintain the performance of your LiFePO4 batteries.

Edit by paco