How to Use Lithium Batteries

We're now surrounded by lithium batteries: cell phones, smartphones, PCs, computers, bicycles, and electric cars. There are two main reasons why we waste such important and expensive items. First, we don't know how to protect them. Second, we don't know how to recharge them. Yet, with simple precautions, it's possible to ensure lithium batteries have a long life.

Index of topics

Never zero discharges

The ideal value, to save on charging and at the same time ensure a longer life for lithium batteries, is to keep them charged between 40 and 80 percent. Never reach 100 percent. In simpler terms: a lithium battery should be discharged to 40 percent of its potential, then brought back to 80 percent. This eliminates waste. According to the most reliable calculations, if you bring the charge to zero and then bring it back to 100 percent, you have between 300 and 500 charging cycles available. This is very little compared to the 4.700 charging cycles if you recharge the battery when it is only partially discharged. More than a difference, it's a chasm.

Away from heat sources

The main enemy of lithium-ion batteries is excessive heat, which causes them to age more quickly. For this reason, it's important not to leave them in direct sunlight or near radiators. Generally, once they're fully charged, it's best to immediately disconnect them from the charger.

Ventilation control

It's a good idea to check, once in a while, that the fans are working properly when using a PC and to avoid exposing lithium batteries to sunlight . These are two steps to ensure a longer life for our batteries.

Expiration date

Lithium batteries do not suffer from the memory effect, meaning they do not lose charging capacity when repeatedly and partially recharged; in fact, they can actually benefit from it. However, unlike nickel batteries, they have an expiration date, so there's no point in buying spares. At peak performance, they can withstand between 500 and 1.000 normal cycles, and their lifespan can extend well beyond the average two years, even up to 4-5 years.

What to do when you don't use them

If you're not using the device with the battery inserted for a while, it's a good idea to remove it and store it in a cool, dry place. If this isn't possible, store the device itself in a cool, dry place.

How to store them

When "conserving" the battery, it's a good idea to charge it to 40 percent before storing it. This will keep it in better condition. When you decide to use it again, it should be fully charged before use.

How to use a laptop power cord

If you have a laptop with a removable battery, it's always best to use it with just the power cord when working for extended periods. The heat generated by a PC running at full power actually shortens the battery's life.

Machine maintenance

As with all technological devices, care and cleaning are important. In this case, it's essential to periodically clean the contacts, both on the battery and the device, using a cotton swab soaked in alcohol.

Use of devices

Finally, to improve the performance of our lithium battery and make it last longer, we must learn to use the smartphones , tablets, and PCs they power wisely. For example, there are a series of functions that can be disabled if they are not used frequently. This allows us to avoid draining the battery unnecessarily. And, in general, especially at night, it is better to turn off devices when you have finished using them than to leave them on standby.

How to use lithium batteries to make them last longer