About Batteries

Battery Care & Maintenance Guide

Rechargeable batteries are an important part of many of the products we supply, from RC cars, boats and aircraft to radios, chargers, electronics and vehicles. Different battery chemistries have different characteristics and require different methods of charging, storage and maintenance.

Always use a charger specifically designed for the battery chemistry and pack configuration you are charging. Never assume that a charger suitable for one type of battery is suitable for another.

Poor battery care can result in reduced capacity, shortened battery life, permanent damage, leakage, overheating or, in some circumstances, fire. Lithium-based batteries require particular care because they must not be overcharged or charged outside their specified temperature range.

Understanding the Different Battery Types

Lithium Polymer (LiPo) Battery Care

LiPo batteries are widely used in RC models because they are lightweight and can deliver very high currents. They are also one of the battery types that requires the most careful handling.

Important LiPo rules:

• Use a charger specifically designed for LiPo batteries.
• Use the correct cell count and charging voltage for the battery.
• Use the balance connector when balance charging a multi-cell pack.
• Never charge a LiPo battery unattended.
• Never charge a damaged, swollen, punctured or leaking battery.
• Never charge a LiPo on or inside flammable materials.
• Do not charge a LiPo that is hot from use. Allow it to cool first.
• Do not discharge a LiPo below the manufacturer's recommended minimum voltage.
• Do not short-circuit the battery.
• Inspect the pack, wires and connectors regularly for damage.

For longer periods of storage, LiPo batteries should generally be stored at an appropriate storage charge rather than completely full or completely empty. Follow the storage-voltage recommendation of the battery manufacturer and charger.

Heat is particularly damaging to lithium batteries. Store LiPo batteries in a cool, dry location away from direct sunlight, heat sources and combustible materials. Lithium-ion batteries generally benefit from partial-charge storage rather than remaining fully charged for long periods. :contentReference[oaicite:1]{index=1}

If a LiPo battery becomes swollen, unusually hot, damaged or starts to smell, stop using it immediately. Do not attempt to charge or continue using a damaged battery.

Lithium-ion (Li-ion) Battery Care

Li-ion batteries are similar to LiPo batteries in that they are lithium-based, but the physical construction and chemistry can be different. Li-ion batteries are commonly found in cylindrical cells such as 18650 and 21700 cells as well as many factory-built battery packs.

• Use the correct charger for the exact Li-ion chemistry and pack configuration.
• Never exceed the manufacturer's specified charge voltage.
• Never charge a damaged or swollen battery.
• Do not charge lithium-ion batteries below freezing unless the manufacturer specifically states that the battery is designed for it.
• Avoid excessive heat during charging and use.
• Do not short-circuit cells or packs.
• Use the manufacturer's recommended protection and battery-management system where required.
• For long-term storage, follow the manufacturer's recommended state of charge.

Lithium-ion cells must not be overcharged. Different lithium chemistries can have different charge-voltage limits, so the manufacturer's specifications should always be followed rather than assuming that every lithium battery uses the same charging voltage. :contentReference[oaicite:2]{index=2}

Ni-MH Battery Care

Nickel-metal hydride batteries are commonly used in RC cars, transmitters, receivers and rechargeable AA and AAA batteries. They are generally more tolerant than lithium batteries but still require the correct charging method.

• Use a charger designed for Ni-MH batteries.
• Do not use a LiPo charger setting for a Ni-MH pack.
• Avoid excessive heat during charging.
• Allow a hot battery to cool before using or charging it again.
• Do not leave Ni-MH batteries connected to an unsuitable charger for extended periods.
• Store batteries in a cool, dry place.
• Check packs for damaged wires, connectors or leaking cells.

Ni-MH batteries can tolerate partial charging and do not need to be completely discharged before every charge. Excessive heat during charging is a useful warning sign that the charging process should be stopped and the battery and charger checked. :contentReference[oaicite:3]{index=3}

Ni-Cd Battery Care

Nickel-cadmium batteries are an older rechargeable technology that was widely used in RC equipment, power tools and other applications. Ni-Cd batteries are robust and can deliver high currents, but cadmium is toxic and these batteries should be recycled appropriately rather than disposed of with normal household waste.

• Use a charger designed for Ni-Cd batteries.
• Do not use a lithium charger on a Ni-Cd pack.
• Avoid prolonged overcharging.
• Keep the battery and charger from excessive heat.
• Inspect older packs carefully for leakage, corrosion or damaged wiring.
• Recycle Ni-Cd batteries through an appropriate battery recycling service.

Ni-Cd batteries can exhibit a memory effect under certain usage patterns. Unlike lithium batteries, controlled periodic discharge can be useful for some Ni-Cd applications, particularly where battery-gauge or capacity issues are present. :contentReference[oaicite:4]{index=4}

Lead Acid Battery Care

Lead acid batteries are much heavier than lithium and nickel-based batteries but remain widely used because they are relatively inexpensive and capable of delivering substantial current.

There are several types of lead acid battery, including flooded, AGM and gel batteries. The charging requirements can differ, so always follow the battery manufacturer's charging instructions.

• Use a charger designed for the specific type of lead acid battery.
• Avoid leaving a lead acid battery in a deeply discharged state.
• Keep the battery charged during extended storage.
• Check the battery voltage periodically during storage.
• Keep battery terminals clean and secure.
• Keep flooded batteries upright and follow the manufacturer's instructions for electrolyte maintenance.
• Keep batteries away from sparks and naked flames.
• Ensure adequate ventilation when charging batteries where hydrogen gas may be produced.

Leaving a lead acid battery discharged for an extended period can cause sulfation, which can permanently reduce its ability to accept and hold a charge. Regular topping-up or maintenance charging, using the correct charger, helps prevent this problem. :contentReference[oaicite:5]{index=5}

Battery Storage

Correct storage is important for all rechargeable batteries. Before storing a battery, check its condition and make sure it is not damaged, swollen, leaking or unusually hot.

• Store batteries in a cool, dry location.
• Keep batteries away from direct sunlight and sources of heat.
• Keep batteries away from water and excessive humidity.
• Protect battery terminals and connectors from short circuits.
• Do not store damaged batteries with good batteries.
• Check stored batteries periodically according to the manufacturer's recommendations.
• Follow the manufacturer's recommended storage charge for lithium batteries.
• Keep lead acid batteries adequately charged during storage to reduce the risk of sulfation.

Temperature has a significant effect on battery life. High temperatures accelerate battery ageing, while charging at unsuitable temperatures can damage certain battery chemistries. For lithium-ion batteries, charging below freezing should be avoided unless the specific battery is designed for low-temperature charging. :contentReference[oaicite:6]{index=6}

Charging Safety

Never leave a rechargeable battery unattended while charging. Always use the correct charger, charging mode, cell count and current for the battery being charged.

• Inspect the battery before charging.
• Check the charger settings before connecting the battery.
• Never charge a battery that is visibly damaged.
• Never charge a battery that is swollen or leaking.
• Never use a damaged charging lead or connector.
• Keep batteries away from flammable materials while charging.
• Stop charging if the battery becomes unusually hot, swells or behaves abnormally.
• Never modify a charger or battery unless you fully understand the electrical and safety requirements.

Charging is generally more demanding on a battery than discharging it, and different chemistries require different charging methods. In particular, lithium-ion batteries do not use the same charging method as Ni-MH or Ni-Cd batteries. :contentReference[oaicite:7]{index=7}

Signs of a Damaged Battery

Stop using a battery if you notice any of the following:

• Swelling or puffing.
• Cracks or punctures.
• Leaking electrolyte.
• Burn marks or melted plastic.
• Damaged wires or connectors.
• Unusual smell.
• Excessive heat during normal charging or use.
• Sudden loss of capacity.
• Cells that become significantly different in voltage from the other cells in the pack.

Do not attempt to repair, puncture, dismantle or force-charge a damaged lithium battery. A damaged battery should be isolated safely and disposed of or recycled through an appropriate battery-recycling service.

Never Mix Battery Types

LiPo, Li-ion, Ni-MH, Ni-Cd and lead acid batteries are not interchangeable simply because they have similar physical sizes or voltages.

Each chemistry has its own charging characteristics, voltage limits and safe operating requirements. Always check the battery label and manufacturer's instructions before selecting a charger or charging program.

Quick Comparison

Important Safety Notice

The information on this page is provided as general battery-care guidance and does not replace the instructions supplied by the battery or charger manufacturer.

Always follow the manufacturer's instructions for charging current, voltage, temperature, storage and discharge limits. If you are unsure which charger or charging program is suitable for your battery, do not attempt to charge it until you have confirmed the correct procedure.

Batteries can store a considerable amount of energy. Incorrect charging, short circuits, physical damage or misuse can result in fire, explosion, burns, chemical exposure or damage to property.

If you have any questions about a battery or charger purchased from Radio Controlled Shop Ireland, please contact us before attempting to charge or use a battery that you are unsure about.