Using LiFePO4 Battery In A Cold Weather

Compared to other Li-ion type batteries, lithium iron phosphate models are more resistant to low temperatures. They lose less capacitance in the cold, hold their charge longer, are less prone to voltage drops and lower current output. Therefore, together with lithium-titanate models, they belong to the category of frost-resistant batteries.

Due to the high chemical stability, LiFePO4 batteries can be used in the temperature range from -30 to +55 °C. But, like other energy storage devices, it is undesirable to use LFP models at the maximum of their capabilities, including at the boundary values of the temperature range. It is better to stick to the “golden mean”, and then the battery will please you with stable operation longer.

Using LiFePO4 Batteries In The Cold

Of the abundance of lithium and lead-acid batteries, LiFePO4 models are the best choice in many situations. In particular, they are great for equipping warehouse equipment, electric ATVs, snow scooters, snowmobiles, electric bicycles and other types of personal electric vehicles.

Batteries based on lithium iron phosphate do an excellent job at any time of the year, but at low temperatures their frost resistance is especially appreciated. For example:

1. Forklifts, trolleys and other types of warehouse equipment are often used in unheated warehouses, in cold rooms and freezers, where the temperature reaches -18 °C.
2. Many types of personal electric vehicles are suitable for year-round use, and snowmobiles and snow scooters are generally designed for winter skiing.

Classic lithium-ion batteries lose about 40% of their capacity in the cold, so they require insulation and the use of heating systems. Frost-resistant LFP batteries are less sensitive to negative temperatures and provide stable power to equipment even in extreme conditions. Of course, when used in frost, it also does not hurt to insulate them and provide them with a heating system. But under equal conditions, LiFePo4 battery manufacturer made them able to withstand low temperatures.

Permissible And Optimal Temperatures

The table shows the recommended temperature ranges for storing, using and charging LFP batteries.

Temperature	Permissible	Optimal
For Operation	-30 – +55 °С	0 – +25 °С
For Storage	0 – +40 °C	+15 – +25 °С
For Charging	0 – +45 °C	+1 – +25 °С

Storage And Charging Features

For long-term storage of LiFePO4 batteries, a temperature of +15 – +25 °С, air humidity of 5–85% and a charge level of about 80% are recommended. Therefore, dry rooms with room temperature are best for storing LiFePO4 batteries in winter.

LiFePO4 batteries need to be charged in CC / CV mode – at a constant current value and at a constant voltage, using a special charger. Whether it is possible to charge such batteries in cold weather depends on the presence of a heating system. If it is not there, it is impossible to charge the battery at temperatures below 0 ° C!

Charging in cold weather is allowed only if there is a battery heating system, when the batteries are maintained at the set positive temperature values, despite the frosty air around. For this, low-current heating elements are used. The heating provided by them allows you to fully use and safely charge lithium batteries in the cold, without wasting time on preheating. Therefore, for winter use, it is better to buy a heated battery.