Need to Know About Lithium Batteries

Lithium batteries, often referred to as Li-ion batteries, have been a popular power source for many years in consumer products such as laptops and cell phones. The average user may not realize that these types of batteries also power their units. They just know that most of the time it has a battery that needs charging... sometimes at least once a day. However, it is important to know the safety of Deep Cycle Lithium Batteries.

It Cannot Be Touched

Unlike the good old days of portable radios and other portable products, many of today's devices that use lithium batteries don't require much human interaction. Just plug in the charging adapter and let it do its job. However, there are many types of consumer products that can use lithium batteries, and the greatest benefit is when they are used.

Spotlights

Perhaps the most popular product today, and the one that works best when powered by lithium batteries, are LED lights. When the lithium cells power the flash, it will be much brighter and last longer than a standard battery-only light.

Better Safe Than Sorry

Sometimes, despite all the advances in technology, we need to be aware of the safety measures set by the manufacturer. As with everything we use, there are best practices and methods to keep products durable and safe.

Let's say that $2 flashlight in your kitchen junk drawer has outlived its days and you want to upgrade to something more powerful. In this case, lithium batteries may be in your future, so a crash course in long-term cell health can be valuable information.

Fees To Be Charged. It Can Be Discarded

If the device you are using accepts lithium batteries, it is best to choose the rechargeable type. Yes, disposable sizes are available, but sizes are limited. Furthermore, the disposal of lithium batteries is no different from the disposal of alkaline cells (at least from an environmental point of view). Lithium also costs more, so throwing it away is an expensive proposition! There is no denying that rechargeable lithium batteries are expensive. Depending on their type, size, and amount of power, you could easily spend $22 on a battery! You can also pay $4 for the battery. The nice thing about flashlights that accept lithium cells is that they often come in different sizes. These options give the consumer more control over costs. It can even be recharged hundreds of times! No matter how expensive they may seem, you get your money's worth in their lives...if...you use them right! Disposable cells can go unused for many years and still retain their power. Rechargeable cells may be stable, but will lose power over time. (See Storage below.)

Better Usage And Charging Habits

This can get complicated, so make sure you understand this section.

To fully understand the safety of lithium batteries, you need to have a basic understanding of the voltages at which they operate. Most rechargeable lithium batteries operate at a nominal voltage of 3.7, which will be 4.2 volts when fully charged. However, the best thing about these cells is that they have no memory. It can be charged whenever it is convenient to charge it. It really is better to charge your cell life too often than not charge enough.

Don't Get Mad At Them!

This is usually worse if the lithium battery is discharged too often and frequently. Their discharge below 3.0 V is dangerous (in some cases)! A lithium battery that is regularly discharged below 3 volts and recharged will not only have a very short life but may also suffer from small ball characteristics!! The chemicals in the lithium cell can be dangerous. If you search the internet, you can find horror stories when it comes to misuse of these products. Try not to drop it on hard surfaces. It is normal to feel warm while charging. If it gets hot to the touch, stop charging! However, please note that serious accidents are rare and completely avoidable as long as you follow the safety precautions outlined in this article. Try to buy only reputable batteries. do some research. Very cheap cells are very cheap for a reason!

Protection Is Key

Look for lithium batteries that have a built-in protection circuit. Most of them do. For the most part, this circuit will ensure that the battery is not discharged beyond the potential danger point. In normal use and when the voltage drops to a certain level, the battery will "shut down" without warning. This may seem inconvenient, but it sends you an important message! Just remember that schemes are not foolproof and can fail. Bottom line...try not to trust them 100%...just in case.