You’ve probably heard of lithium batteries before, especially if you own an RV or bass boat. In recent years, they’ve taken the deep cycle battery market by storm and nowadays power many of our favorite devices. Why? Because they’re known for being efficient, environmentally friendly, and safer. Especially when compared to other types of rechargeable batteries that are on the market, but the real benefit and the main advantage we’ll discuss in this blog post is this: how long lithium batteries last. (Spoiler alert – they last a long time!)
Follow along as we discuss how long these batteries last, go over other benefits of choosing lithium, and offer some helpful tips for getting the most years possible out of your lithium batteries.
Do Lithium Batteries Last Longer Than Other Batteries?
Lithium batteries generally last longer and perform better than other types of batteries. Like lead-acid batteries, for example. Lithium batteries currently have the longest lifespan of all available deep-cycle batteries. Many can last between 3,000 and 5,000 partial cycles. For comparison, lead-acid batteries typically give 500 -1,000 partial cycles.
Partial cycles refer to draining the battery and then recharging it. If you charge the battery and then discharge it at half its capacity, that would be a half cycle. Let’s consider a side-by-side or boat powered by a lithium battery that’s recharged once a day. This means that the battery should last for more than 3,000 days, which is over eight years. Which is a fantastic lifespan! By doing a few calculations, you can get a better feel for how long lithium batteries can last for you.
How to Get the Longest Lifespan
Of course, the lifespan of LiFePO4 batteries can vary depending on several factors. To get the most bang for your buck, you may consider these factors when taking care of your batteries:
Temperature
High temperatures can reduce the lifespan of your LiFePO4 batteries. On the flip side, low temperatures can decrease their performance. Thankfully, these are some of the hardiest batteries out there and can operate at -20~60℃ or -4℉~140℉.
Overcharging
With both lithium and lead-acid, damage can occur to the battery and shorten its lifespan, if you overcharge. That’s why having a BMS (battery management system) is crucial. Here at LithiumHub, all of our batteries come equipped with one. Not only does the BMS protect against overcharging and undercharging, but it balances cells, regulates temperature, and much more. Discover the many benefits of investing in a battery that comes with a built-in battery management system, here. Ultimately, having one will help you get the most years out of your battery.
Charging Rate
Rapid charging can cause damage to LiFePO4 batteries, so it’s recommended to use a charger that matches the manufacturer’s specifications. If you’re purchasing an Ionic LiFeP04 battery, we recommend pairing it with one of our chargers. Just be sure to choose the correct one, and you’ll experience the greatest performance and longest lifespan possible.
Storage Conditions
Ideally, LiFePO4 batteries should be stored in a cool, dry place to avoid degradation of the battery’s chemistry.
Cycle Life
The number of charging and discharging cycles that your battery goes through will affect its lifespan. Generally, a higher cycle life battery will have a longer lifespan. This is where lithium shines with its 3,000 – 5,000 partial cycles, on average. It’s designed to be used for many many years!
Overall, the lifespan of LiFePO4 batteries is dependent on several factors, and proper care and maintenance can help prolong their lifespan. But if you’re looking for a battery that’s more “leave it and let it be” then this is it! It’s about as maintenance-free as you can get.
Wondering how long RV batteries last? Find out here!
What Else Can I Do to Make My Batteries Perform Better?
Lithium batteries have a much higher energy density when compared to other batteries. This means they store more energy than other batteries. They also come in smaller, lighter packaging. For these reasons, they’re the gold standard for deep-cycle batteries. They match many users’ on-the-go lifestyles and perform for hours without recharging.
We can do some things to make our lithium batteries last longer though. This will improve the device’s performance and how long it can hold its charge throughout the day.
Lithium batteries can take close to the full depth of discharge (90% DOD) safely, unlike lead acid. But, it’s best to avoid completely draining the battery to prolong its life. Avoiding this will increase the longevity of a lithium battery.
Again a BMS, or battery management system, helps protect a LiFePO4 battery from:
- Overcharging,
- Over-discharging, and
- Other conditions that can damage the battery.
Unlike other battery types, where you have to practically babysit them to avoid over/undercharging, you don’t have to worry about lithium. Did you know that Ionic batteries also come with Bluetooth capabilities? With a couple of taps on your cellphone, you can get an accurate snapshot of your battery’s health at any given moment.
Lithium Batteries Are Great!
Lithium batteries are already the go-to choice for many, but their popularity is growing. Their widespread use is because of their high energy density, fast charging, and long lifespan. So, your bass boat, RV, or UTV – whatever you’re into, needs lithium batteries!
They are also safer than other types of rechargeable batteries. This makes them ideal for e solar power setups, work equipment, lawnmowers, and other commonly used devices.
When you consider efficiency, reliability, and lifetime costs, it’s clear that lithium batteries are superior. While they may cost more upfront than other types, the long-term savings far outweigh the initial expense.
We hope you found the information and tips in this blog post on how long lithium batteries last helpful. Now you can prolong the life of your LiFePO4 battery and get the most out of it for years to come!
How Long Do Marine Batteries Last? Find out here!
