Winter conditions call for extra caution, especially when charging lithium batteries. One wrong move can shorten their lifespan or even cause permanent damage. Lithium batteries, especially LiFePO4, are known for their efficiency and longevity. But they come with specific charging needs when temperatures drop.
If you have a LiFePO4 battery or are planning to get one, it’s ideal to know how to safely charge one in cold weather without risking its performance. Learn this and more in this article.
What Happens When You Charge Lithium Batteries in the Cold?
At low temperatures, the chemical reactions inside a LiFePO4 battery tend to slow down. This makes charging lithium batteries in the cold quite risky, as it might trigger lithium plating. This happens when lithium builds up on the anode, leading to internal short circuits, capacity loss, or total battery failure.
Typically, lithium batteries, like a 100Ah Lithium Battery, need temperatures above 0°C to be safely charged. Many premium lithium batteries for sale today now include a low-temperature cutoff BMS to protect against charging damage, but not all do. If you’re using older batteries or budget models, take extra precautions.
How to Safely Charge Lithium Batteries in Cold Temperatures
Want to know how to charge a lithium battery safely? The following tips can help:
Warm Before Charging
Avoid charging frozen batteries at all costs. Before even charging, make sure to warm it up to at least room temperature. Bring it indoors and use an insulated box. You may also wrap it in a battery heater pad.
Use a Low-Temp-Cutoff BMS Battery
Many lithium batteries in Australia now come with a built-in BMS that automatically blocks charging at unsafe temperatures. The 100Ah Battery units by VoltX are a solid example—they're built with cold protection and well-suited for Aussie winters.
Charge Slowly in Cold Conditions
If charging lithium batteries in cool but above-zero temperatures is unavoidable, lower the amperage. Charging slowly will put less strain on the battery. Avoid fast-charging features altogether until temperatures are stable.
Charge the Battery After Use
Charge recently used batteries right after use, as they’re slightly warmer. Take advantage of this fact before they cool down to ambient outdoor temperatures.
Appropriate Charging Gear
Pair your battery with the right tools when charging. For example, an MPPT solar charge controller for lithium batteries is a must for solar setups, while a DC to DC charger with lithium-specific profiles is best for charging in the car.
Charging Lithium Batteries with Solar in Cold Climates
Cold weather lithium charging using solar may also take longer as solar panels are less efficient due to cloudy days and shorter daylight hours, but it’s not impossible. Yes, you read that right. Charging batteries with solar in the winter is still possible, but it requires a bit of planning.
Make sure your MPPT controller is compatible with lithium charging modes. Keep the battery insulated even if your solar panels are outside. Remember, cold batteries and a slow winter solar output can lead to poor charging efficiency.
Not sure which battery size to get?
If you have light power needs, a 100Ah VoltX lithium battery should be enough. For tight installs like 4WDs or campervans, slimline lithium batteries are an excellent fit. Just ensure your system is winter-ready, from panels to charge controllers.
Choosing the Right Cold-Ready Lithium Battery
Not all lithium batteries are designed for cold weather, so make sure to look beyond just capacity and price. Here are some practical tips:
Prioritise LiFePO4 battery chemistry for stability and safety
Make sure it includes low temperature battery safety feature via BMS
Choose brands with local Australian support and warranty, like VoltX lithium batteries
VoltX offers a range of 100Ah lithium batteries, including slimline options for campers and 4WD setups. Built for real Aussie weather, they’re a smart long-term choice for when temperatures start to dip.
Charge Smart, Store Safe, Power Through Winter
Charging lithium batteries in cold weather isn’t impossible with the right habits and equipment. Simple tricks, like warming up your batteries and staying within lithium battery charge limits, enable you to safely top up your LiFePO4 battery.
Ready to upgrade your gear for cold-weather use? Explore our range of winter-proof VoltX LiFePO4 batteries and chargers—and power smarter this season.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it safe to charge lithium batteries in the cold?
Only if the battery is above 0°C. Charging when it’s too cold can cause damage.
What happens if I charge a frozen battery?
It can lose capacity or stop working completely. Some batteries may shut off to prevent this.
How do I warm up a battery before charging?
Bring it indoors and use a battery warmer or let it rest in a warm space for a while.
What gear do I need to charge safely in winter?
Use an MPPT solar charge controller or a DC to DC charger made for lithium batteries.
What kind of battery is best for cold weather?
Choose LiFePO4 batteries with low-temperature protection, like VoltX models.
