Best Practices For Charging Lithium-ion Batteries

Lithium-ion batteries have become integral in our day-to-day lives, powering essential items from smartphones to electric vehicles.

While they are known for their efficiency and reliability, understanding how to charge them accurately is crucial for maximising their lifespan and safety. We highlight the best practices and tips for charging lithium-ion batteries.

1. Use the Right Charger

The first step to ensuring the longevity and safety of your lithium-ion battery is to use the correct charger for it. Many devices come with their original chargers, and using a generic or third-party charger may not provide the appropriate voltage and current levels. This misstep can lead to overcharging or undercharging, which harms the battery's health.

2. Avoid Extreme Temperatures

Lithium-ion batteries are sensitive to temperature variations. Extreme cold or hot conditions can impact their performance and longevity. If you need to charge your device in environments with extreme temperatures, try to bring it to a moderate temperature first.

3. Prevent Overcharging

One of the most common misconceptions about lithium-ion batteries is that you must drain them before recharging. In reality, these batteries do not have a memory effect, and you can charge them at any state.

On the other hand, overcharging can be harmful. Consider using a charger with overcharge protection or set a timer to avoid prolonged charging sessions.

4. Charge Partially, Not Fully

Lithium-ion batteries have a longer lifespan when charged partially rather than fully. Charging from 20% to 80% is often recommended for everyday use. You should reserve 100% charges for when you need the maximum battery capacity, such as before a long trip.

You can significantly extend the life of your battery by avoiding charging in full.

5. Avoid Deep Discharges

Deep discharges, where the battery is at 0%, can stress lithium-ion batteries. Try to recharge your device when the battery level reaches around 20% to 30%. This practice will help maintain the health of your battery over time.

6. Unplug When Fully Charged

After fully charging your device or battery, it's important to unplug it promptly. Leaving a fully charged device plugged in for extended periods can lead to overcharging and, over time, degrade the battery's capacity. 

Most modern devices have built-in mechanisms to prevent overcharging, but it's still a good practice to unplug when the battery reaches 100%.

7. Store at Partial Charge

If you plan to store a lithium-ion battery for an extended period, ensure it's at a partial charge, ideally around 50%. This measure prevents the battery from becoming overly depleted or fully charged, which can be harmful during storage.

8. Charge Slowly for Long-Term Health

Fast charging is convenient but generates more heat and adversely affects the battery. If you want to maximise the lifespan of your lithium-ion battery, choose slower charging where possible. Slow charging generates less heat, reducing wear and tear on the battery.

9. Keep Ventilation in Mind

When charging your device, place the device in a well-ventilated area. Lithium-ion batteries can generate heat during charging, and proper ventilation helps dissipate that heat, preventing potential overheating.

10. Regularly Update Software

The software of your device or charger can also play a role in battery health. Regularly update your device's software, as manufacturers often release updates that optimise battery charging and performance.

Properly charging lithium-ion batteries is essential for their longevity and safety. By following these best practices and tips, you can make sure that your devices and batteries stay in good health, ultimately saving you money and reducing electronic waste.

Remember that lithium-ion batteries are not one-size-fits-all, so consult your device's user manual or the manufacturer's guidelines for specific charging recommendations. Taking care of your batteries will result in better performance and a longer lifespan, benefiting your wallet and the environment.