RV Lithium Battery Winter Storage: Avoid Continuous Charging

DALY BMS, a company specializing in battery management systems (BMS), has issued recommendations for winter storage of lithium batteries used in recreational vehicles (RVs). The company emphasizes that leaving these batteries plugged in for continuous charging throughout the winter months can lead to performance degradation and a shortened lifespan.

Confusion often arises from practices suited for lead-acid batteries, which self-discharge rapidly and require a constant 'float charge' to prevent sulfation and freezing. Lithium iron phosphate (LiFePO4) batteries, however, operate on a different chemical principle. They have a very low self-discharge rate, and maintaining a 100% state of charge for extended periods can cause internal stress and accelerate capacity loss.

DALY BMS advises storing LiFePO4 batteries at a charge level between 50% and 80%. The recommended procedure involves charging the battery to this range before storage, then disconnecting it using the main power switch to eliminate parasitic draws from onboard electronics. Periodically, every one to two months, the battery can be topped up using a smart lithium charger equipped with an automatic shut-off feature.

Such smart chargers should incorporate safety mechanisms like a true automatic cut-off that stops power delivery once the target voltage is met. Additionally, an adjustable charging protection time (e.g., 6-24 hours) can act as a fail-safe against overcharging if voltage readings are inaccurate. The charger should also be capable of reviving over-discharged batteries and possess rugged construction to withstand cold and damp storage environments.