Rechargeable Batteries

Rechargeable batteries allow for long-lasting use whether for powering small devices or running larger appliances. These batteries are advantageous in a lot of ways and are often preferred by users since they eliminate the need to buy new batteries every now and then. They bring convenience in any application, providing you with a reliable power supply every time you need it as long as it's charged. Nowadays, charging batteries have become a lot more convenient as well due to modern technology. Even your camping battery packs and caravan batteries are easier to top off either through a mains power, battery charger, or solar panels. Rechargeable batteries help save both time and money, plus they generally perform better than disposable batteries too. That's not all-they are also better for the environment since they produce less waste energy and can be reused several times. 

Usually, rechargeable batteries are associated with smaller batteries like AA batteries or AAA batteries. While this is correct, these batteries also have an established presence in other fields like camping, boating, and caravanning. When it comes to outdoor applications, the best type of rechargeable batteries you can use would be lithium rechargeable batteries. Lithium iron phosphate batteries or LiFePO4 specifically, are among the newer, more advanced technology used in power packs. These are safer with their incombustible form unlike rechargeable lithium-ion batteries, so you no longer have to worry about your battery exploding or catching fire. Aside from safety, these batteries ensure superior performance with their integrated battery management system (BMS) which also prevents common battery problems for maintenance-free usage.

Do LiFePO4 Batteries Need a Special Charger?

No. You don't need any special charger for LiFePO4 batteries as long as it's an appropriate lithium battery charger with the same voltage as your battery pack. There are different types of chargers for every battery and as long as you use the correct one for LiFePO4, you can start recharging right away. For instance, a lithium 12V rechargeable battery would require a charger with 14V to 14.6V as this is the voltage level of a fully charged lithium battery. Anything lower would still be able to top it off but not to 100%. On the other hand, a higher voltage won't be able to recharge your lithium battery as the BMS would switch to protection mode due to its high-voltage disconnect feature. If you're using solar panels to charge a 12V battery as part of an entire solar panel setup, make sure you use a solar charge controller instead of directly connecting the battery to the solar panels. This will regulate the energy generated from your solar panels that will eventually be stored in your battery bank. 

Is It OK To Leave Rechargeable Batteries In the Charger?

While there are smart chargers that automatically stop charging when your battery is full and batteries equipped with BMS to prevent overcharging, the best way to ensure your battery's optimal condition would be to disconnect it once it's fully charged. This is even more important for non-LiFePO4 batteries with a higher risk of overheating. As much as possible, try not to completely discharge your battery, so you won't need to recharge it for too long. 

How Long Do Rechargeable Batteries Last?

A rechargeable battery has an average lifespan of five to seven years if regularly used. Keeping it stored and stagnant frequently will reduce its lifespan and affect its performance as well. How long will it last without needing a recharge? Well, this one depends on your battery type, application, discharge level, and load. If longevity is an important factor for you, then go for deep-cycle batteries, specifically lithium deep-cycle batteries. Whether you have a 24V battery or even a 48V battery, this battery type will last you for seven to ten years or more than 2,000 cycles with proper care. Aside from this, deep-cycle batteries are famous for their ability to provide stable power even at an 80% discharge level, making them ideal as an off-grid battery.

More from Outbax

Get the best prices on rechargeable portable batteries here at Outbax. Our range of LiFePO4 consists of quality batteries in different capacities and forms. We have 100Ah lithium batteries, slimline batteries, and even clear-case batteries. Aside from lithium power packs, Outbax also offers other camping power sources like solar panels, inverter generators, and power stations. The best thing here is that everything is done online from the choosing up to the purchase. All you have to do is wait for your item to be delivered, so location is never an issue as long as you're in the country. Need batteries in Geelong or batteries in West Gosford? No worries, just order online and we'll have your camping gear shipped to you in no time!