The best battery rule is to store it half-charged when storing it long term.
Understanding Long-Term Battery Storage
Storing batteries correctly is essential to maintain their health and longevity. Improper storage, such as leaving batteries fully charged or completely depleted, can lead to irreversible damage and decreased capacity.
Why Half-Charge is Ideal
- Prevents Deep Discharge: When a battery is stored fully discharged, it can enter a deep discharge state. This can severely damage the battery, making it incapable of holding a charge in the future.
- Minimizes Stress: A fully charged battery experiences more stress than a half-charged one. This stress can degrade the battery's internal components over time, impacting its overall performance and lifespan.
- Optimal Stability: Storing a battery at around 50% charge strikes a balance between preventing deep discharge and minimizing stress, resulting in optimal battery stability during long-term storage.
Practical Guidelines for Battery Storage
| Scenario | Recommended Charge Level | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Short-Term Storage (Days) | Any | Charge as needed for use; no special storage requirements. |
| Long-Term Storage (Weeks/Months) | Around 50% | Charge to approximately 50% before storing; check and recharge periodically if stored for many months. |
Steps to Store Batteries Correctly
- Charge to 50%: Before storing your device or battery for an extended period, charge it to approximately 50%.
- Power Off Device: If storing a device, ensure it is completely powered off.
- Store in Cool, Dry Place: Keep the battery or device in a cool, dry environment to prevent temperature extremes from affecting it.
Avoiding Common Battery Storage Mistakes
- Never store fully charged batteries for long periods. This can degrade the battery's capacity over time.
- Avoid storing completely depleted batteries. This increases the risk of deep discharge.
- Do not expose batteries to extreme temperatures or humidity as this can accelerate degradation.
Following these guidelines will help you maximize the lifespan of your batteries and prevent avoidable damage. By keeping your batteries at a half-charged state when storing them for long periods, you're taking a significant step to maintain their health and optimal performance.
