The Truth About Low Battery in Lithium-ion Batteries

By Gerald, Updated on March 22, 2024

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In the digital age, where our lives revolve around electronic devices, experiencing a low battery can be frustrating and disruptive. Specifically, when it comes to lithium-ion batteries, understanding the truth about low batteries becomes essential for optimizing their performance and longevity. This comprehensive guide will delve into the causes of low battery in lithium-ion batteries, provide insights on handling such situations, and shed light on the long-term battery health implications.

Part 1. What is low battery in lithium-ion batteries?

Low Battery in Lithium-ion Batteries

A low lithium-ion battery is a critical stage where the battery’s charge diminishes significantly, nearing depletion. Lithium-ion batteries exhibit distinct behavior as they approach low charge levels, unlike traditional battery types like alkaline or nickel-cadmium. This behavior includes a gradual decline in voltage output and a decrease in overall performance.

Impact of Low Battery on Lithium-ion Batteries

When a lithium-ion battery reaches a low charge level, several consequences arise. Firstly, a noticeable voltage drop leads to diminished power output. This voltage drop affects the functionality of electronic devices powered by these batteries, often resulting in reduced performance or complete shutdown.

Moreover, low battery levels can significantly diminish the capacity of lithium-ion batteries. As the charge depletes, the battery’s ability to hold a charge diminishes, necessitating more frequent recharging. This reduced capacity affects the device’s usability and contributes to user inconvenience and dissatisfaction.

Furthermore, prolonged exposure to low battery levels can damage the cells. Lithium-ion batteries exhibit sensitivity to over-discharge, which happens when users drain the battery beyond its safe operating limits. This over-discharge can lead to irreversible damage to the battery, causing decreased efficiency, shortened lifespan, and even safety hazards such as swelling or overheating.

Part 2. Causes of low battery in lithium-ion batteries

Battery Drainage Factors Specific to Lithium-ion Batteries

High Discharge Rates

When users subject lithium-ion batteries to high discharge rates, such as when they power energy-intensive applications or devices, the battery drains significantly faster. This rapid charge depletion accelerates the wear and tear on the battery cells, decreasing overall capacity over time.

Overcharging

Overcharging occurs when a lithium-ion battery receives a charge even after reaching its maximum capacity. This excess charging can cause the battery cells to become stressed. It may lead to the degradation of the battery’s performance and capacity. Over time, this degradation can contribute to low battery situations as the battery’s ability to hold a charge diminishes.

Deep Discharges

Deep discharges occur when users drain entirely the charge of a lithium-ion battery. Unlike other battery types, deep discharges can be particularly harmful to lithium-ion batteries, causing irreversible damage to the cells. This damage can lead to decreased efficiency and reduced capacity, ultimately contributing to more frequent low-battery situations.

Environmental Factors Impacting Lithium-ion Battery Performance

Temperature Extremes

Extreme temperatures, whether hot or cold, can significantly impact the performance of lithium-ion batteries. High temperatures can accelerate chemical reactions within the battery cells, leading to faster degradation and reduced capacity. Conversely, cold temperatures can slow these reactions, temporarily reducing battery performance. Preserving battery health requires avoiding exposing lithium-ion batteries to extreme temperatures and storing them in moderate environments whenever possible.

Humidity Levels

Humidity levels can also influence the behavior of lithium-ion batteries. High-humidity environments can introduce moisture into the battery, potentially causing corrosion and short circuits. To mitigate the impact of humidity on battery performance, one should store devices in dry environments and utilize protective cases or covers when necessary.

Minimizing the Impact of Environmental Factors:

Store devices in moderate-temperature environments to avoid exposure to extreme heat or cold.
Keep devices away from direct sunlight and heat sources, such as radiators or vents.
Use protective cases or covers to shield devices from moisture and humidity.
Avoid leaving devices in humid environments for extended periods, especially without proper protection.
Regularly clean and inspect devices to ensure they are free from moisture and debris that could affect battery performance.

Part 3. How to handle a low battery in lithium-ion batteries?

Use Genuine Chargers

Always use genuine chargers and cables designed for your device to ensure lithium-ion batteries’ safe and efficient charging. Generic or counterfeit chargers may not provide the necessary protection mechanisms, risking damage to both the battery and the device.

Avoid Overcharging

Unplug the device from the charger once it reaches total capacity to prevent overcharging. Leaving the device connected to the charger for extended periods can stress the battery and lead to premature degradation.

Charge at Moderate Temperatures

Lithium-ion batteries charge most efficiently at moderate temperatures. Avoid charging the device in extreme heat or cold, impacting battery performance and longevity. Optimal charging temperature ranges typically fall between 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F).

Monitor Charging Progress

Keep an eye on the charging progress to ensure the battery is charging correctly and does not exhibit any signs of overheating or abnormal behavior. If you notice any issues, disconnect the charger immediately and seek assistance from a qualified technician.

Part 4. Long-term battery health of lithium-ion batteries

Avoid Extreme Temperatures

Lithium-ion batteries perform best within a moderate temperature range of 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F). Extreme heat or cold exposure can degrade the battery’s performance and shorten its lifespan. Avoid leaving devices in direct sunlight or hot cars and exposing them to freezing temperatures.

Partial Charging

Unlike older battery technologies, lithium-ion batteries do not suffer from memory effects. It’s okay to recharge them frequently, even if they are not fully depleted.

Optimize Charging Practices

Use genuine chargers and cables recommended by the device manufacturer to ensure safe and efficient charging. Avoid overcharging by unplugging the device once it reaches total capacity, and refrain from using it while charging to prevent overheating.

Storage Considerations

If you need to store a device or spare lithium-ion batteries for an extended period, store them at around 50% charge in a cool, dry place. Avoid storing fully charged or depleted batteries, which can lead to degradation over time.

Regular Use

Lithium-ion batteries benefit from regular use. If you have spare batteries, rotate them periodically to prevent any single battery from remaining idle for too long. This practice helps maintain their capacity and performance over time.

Part 5. FAQs

How do I know if my lithium battery is low?

You can check the charge level of your lithium battery by looking at the battery indicator on your device or by using a battery monitoring app if available. Typically, when the battery is low, you’ll receive notifications or warnings on your device indicating that the battery needs recharging.
How low can a Li-ion battery go?

The exact low point for a Li-ion battery can vary depending on factors such as the battery’s capacity and the device it powers. However, users generally consider Li-ion batteries low when the charge level drops below 20% to 30% of their maximum capacity.
What is the low voltage of a 3.7 lithium battery?

A 3.7-volt lithium battery reaches a low level when its voltage drops below approximately 3.2 to 3.4 volts. This level indicates that the battery is nearing depletion and may require recharging soon to maintain optimal performance.
What is the voltage of a low 18650 battery?

An 18650 lithium-ion battery typically reaches a low level when its voltage drops below 3.2 to 3.4 volts. This level indicates that the battery has depleted a significant portion of its charge and may require recharging to continue operating effectively.
At what voltage is a LiFePO4 battery dead?

A LiFePO4 (lithium iron phosphate) battery reaches a dead or fully discharged state when its voltage drops below approximately 2.5 to 2.8 volts per cell. Operating a LiFePO4 battery below this voltage threshold can lead to irreversible damage and may affect its long-term performance.