When you buy lithium-based batteries, you need to store them properly to ensure that they don’t spoil. Storing lithium batteries incorrectly can also be a fire hazard, which is another reason why it’s so crucial to store them properly. So, with that in mind, our experts explain how to correctly store lithium-ion batteries to store them properly, no matter how you intend to use them.
Ideally, you should store lithium-ion batteries at an ambient room or air temperature (15-20C). The higher the temperature of the environment in which a battery is stored, the quicker it will discharge. While you don’t necessarily need to use a thermometer to determine the optimal temperature for lithium-ion battery storage, just make sure that the room in which the batteries are stored is not too hot or not too cold!
In terms of storage humidity for lithium-ion batteries, you should be looking for no more than 50%. The main issue with lithium batteries and humidity is that condensation can build up between the terminals, which can cause a short in its circuit. In very extreme situations, this could lead to a fire. But generally, storing lithium-ion batteries in a humid environment may cause the battery to spoil, so it’s best to bear this in mind before leaving your batteries in a space for a prolonged period of time.
Regardless of the type of battery you have, it will begin self-discharging when you keep it in storage. Typically, a lithium-ion battery will discharge around 5% in the first 24 hours following a full charge. Then, when left in storage, it will self-discharge between 1-2%. The ideal state of charge for a lithium-ion battery for immediate use is 40-50%. Before using a battery that has been in storage, you should allow it to rest at room storage for around 30-60 minutes.
Although every battery has its own shelf-life, we find that if a battery is of high quality and is properly stored, it can retain its operating capacity for a period of up to ten years. Some military grade lithium-ion batteries have a shelf life in excess of twenty years, but this is uncommon for most commercial applications.
No matter how you plan to use lithium-ion batteries, it’s really important to store them correctly at home or in an industrial setting. You can use the tips highlighted in this article to guide you as you look to preserve lithium-ion batteries at home or work for future use. Feel free to get in touch with one of our battery experts if you have any questions about getting the most out of your lithium-ion battery packs.
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