Should I charge LiFePO4 to 100%?
LiFePO4 batteries are a new type of lithium-ion battery that offers advantages such as high energy density, long lifespan, and lower environmental impact. However, whether or not to charge them to 100% is a controversial question. In this article, we will analyze this issue and provide some recommendations.
Is fully charged good for battery health?
Firstly, let's examine why some people advocate for charging LiFePO4 batteries to 100%. Some believe that charging the battery to 100% maximizes the available energy, thereby extending the battery's usage time. Additionally, they argue that charging to 100% can prevent memory effect and improve the battery's performance and lifespan.
However, there are also opposing views. Some argue that charging LiFePO4 batteries to 100% may lead to overcharging, increasing the battery's temperature and pressure, which can reduce its lifespan. Furthermore, overcharging can pose safety risks such as overheating, leakage, or even explosion.
How to use lithium iron phosphate batteries correctly
Based on these perspectives, we offer the following recommendations:
Avoid overcharging
The optimal charging level for LiFePO4 batteries is between 80% and 90%. This balance between available energy and lifespan is recommended for daily use. Therefore, it is advisable to charge the battery to around 80% to 90% in regular usage.
Periodic deep charging
While frequent charging to 100% is not recommended, periodic deep charging is beneficial. Deep charging helps calibrate the battery's charge level display and improves its performance.
Avoid over-discharging
Similar to overcharging, over-discharging also has a negative impact on battery lifespan. Therefore, it is recommended to recharge the battery promptly when its charge level drops below 20% to avoid over-discharging.
In conclusion, while charging LiFePO4 batteries to 100% may provide more available energy, it can have negative effects on battery lifespan and safety. Therefore, we recommend charging the battery to around 80% to 90% and periodically performing deep charging to balance performance and lifespan.
2 comments
You avoid this by buying a Victron MPPT solar regulator, it is programmable, it charges any battery at the voltage you choose.
My system on my live on boat gets charged to 100% by mid day or 1 pm. If it’s bad to let the bank charge to 100 SOC how do I stop it. How bad is it , what are the consequences?
I have 1200 amps of Lithium Iron
2400 watts of solar.