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February 2, 2024
Understanding LiFePO4 Leisure Battery Charging Characteristics
Before we discuss the various charging methods, it's vital to understand the unique characteristics of LiFePO4 batteries. Known for their durability and long lifespan, these batteries are perfect for leisure activities like camping, boating, and caravanning.
Key Advantages of LiFePO4 Batteries:
- Safety: LiFePO4 batteries have a significantly lower risk of thermal runaway compared to other lithium-ion chemistries, making them a safer option.
- Rapid Charging: These batteries can accept a charge much faster than other types, with rates of up to 1C being common (1C denotes the cell capacity in amp e.g. a 12V 180Ah battery will have a 1C of 180A)
- Overcharging Tolerance: While it’s crucial to avoid overcharging, LiFePO4 batteries are more tolerant than other lithium-ion batteries, releasing excess energy as heat. (overcharging is not possible with TITAN Lithium batteries due to our BMS)
- Deeper Discharge Capability: LiFePO4 batteries can be discharged more deeply without damaging the cells, which helps prolong their lifespan.
Types of Chargers Suitable for LiFePO4 Leisure Batteries
Choosing the right charger is essential for optimal performance and longevity. Here are the most effective methods for charging your LiFePO4 leisure battery:
1. Multi-Stage Chargers (most common mains chargers)
Multi-stage chargers are designed to efficiently charge batteries without causing damage. They operate in three stages:
- Bulk Stage: Delivers a constant current until the battery reaches around 80% capacity.
- Absorption Stage: Provides a constant voltage while gradually reducing current as the battery nears full capacity.
- Float Stage: Maintains the battery at full capacity without overcharging.
At TITAN Lithium, we offer a range of multi-stage chargers that are ideal for our LiFePO4 batteries, ensuring optimal charging and longevity.
Existing smart chargers like CTEK, NOCO or Ring can be used with our batteries but should be set on the AGM or VRLA setting (if a lithium setting is not available).
2. Solar Chargers
Harnessing the power of the sun is an eco-friendly way to keep your devices charged during off-grid adventures, as well as keep you off-grid for longer. To set up solar charging, you’ll need a solar panel, your LiFePO4 battery, and a solar charge controller, such as an MPPT (Maximum Power Point Tracking Controller). This method allows you to enjoy sustainable energy wherever you go. We recommend Victron MPPT's as they're easy to set up, and have a dedicated lithium charge setting.
3. Split Charge Relay
A split charge relay, or voltage-sensitive relay, connects your vehicle or vessel leisure battery bank to the vehicle's alternator or engine battery. This automatic system ensures your starter battery remains charged while providing power to your leisure batteries, making it a convenient choice for many users. Most vehicles will have these as standard; it's worth noting that the relay is defaulted to only switch on when the engine battery reaches a set voltage (normally about 80% charged) - if the engine battery is flat, the relay will take some time to turn on and allow charge to the leisure battery.
4. Smart Alternator Charging
Smart alternators are becoming increasingly common in modern vehicles, but they can present challenges for charging leisure batteries as the alternator can 'coast' - it'll switch off in order to help the engine save on MPG. To ensure your LiFePO4 battery receives a full charge, consider using a battery-to-battery charger (also called a DC-DC charger) to regulate the voltage output effectively. Smart split charge relays are also fine to use with our batteries.
Top Tips for Charging LiFePO4 Leisure Batteries
- Use a Compatible Charge Mode: Opt for chargers designed with lithium modes (ideally) or at least AGM modes available to ensure equal cell charging.
- Charge at Correct Voltage and Current Levels: The recommended voltage for charging a LiFePO4 battery is between 13.8V and 14.6V. TITAN Lithium batteries can accept extremely high charing currents (currently the best in the UK market) - see each individual battery specification to see the limit.
- Make Note of Extreme Temperatures: Temperature can significantly impact battery charge and discharge performance. Ensure your battery remains within the ideal charging temperature range (10°C to 30°C) for best results. Our batteries can be charged at -20°C due to our internal heaters. Avoid charging if the battery is over 50°C.
- Disconnect a Mains Charger Once Fully Charged: Our BMS stops any overcharging from occurring by using MOSFETS - in order for these not to wear out too fast, we recommend not leaving the battery on charge for more than a few weeks at a time.
In Conclusion
When selecting the best charging method, consider your power requirements, budget, and trip frequency.
If you’re looking for convenience, a dedicated lithium multi-stage charger is a fantastic investment, providing faster, more efficient charging while extending battery life. On the other hand, if sustainability is your priority, a good sized solar panel (200W +) offers a continuous energy source for your adventures.
We hope this guide from TITAN Lithium has provided valuable insights into charging your LiFePO4 leisure battery. Here’s to seamless adventures powered by TITAN Lithium
