How to Properly Charge a Lipo Battery

How to properly charge a lipo RC battery

Lithium polymer (LiPo) batteries are a popular choice for powering remote control (RC) vehicles because of their high energy density and low weight. However, these batteries require proper care and charging to ensure their longevity and safety. In this article, we'll discuss some tips on how to properly charge a LiPo RC battery. 

• Use the proper charger: Make sure to use a charger specifically designed for LiPo batteries. These chargers typically have a built-in balancing circuit that helps ensure each cell in the battery is charged to the same level. Using a charger not designed for LiPo batteries can damage the battery and potentially cause a fire.
• Monitor the charging process: Always keep an eye on the charging process to ensure that the battery doesn't overheat or become too hot to touch. Many LiPo chargers have built-in temperature sensors that will automatically stop the charging process if the battery becomes too hot.
• Charge at the correct rate: LiPo batteries should be charged at a rate of no more than 1C, which means that if the battery has a capacity of 1000mAh, it should be charged at a rate of no more than 1A (1C x 1000mAh = 1A). Charging at a higher rate than this can cause the battery to become damaged and can also lead to a fire.
• Balance the cells: As mentioned before , LiPo batteries consist of multiple cells, so it is important to ensure that the cells are balanced before and during the charging process. Most LiPo chargers have a built-in balancer, but for some specific high-performance batteries you might need an additional one .
• Store properly: When not in use, make sure to store your LiPo battery in a cool, dry place at a storage charge of between 3.8V and 3.85V per cell. Storing a LiPo battery at a higher voltage can cause it to become damaged over time and can also lead to a fire.
• Dispose of properly: LiPo batteries should never be thrown in the waste bin, as they can be dangerous if not properly disposed of. Here in Maroochydore, the resource recovery center at Buderim has battery recycling facilities.

Remember, LiPo batteries are a powerful and reliable source of energy for RC vehicles, but they require proper care and charging to ensure their safety and longevity. Following these tips can help ensure that your LiPo battery is charged properly and remains in good working condition for years to come. 

LiPo batteries have a limited lifespan and need to be replaced periodically, to avoid overusing them and decreasing their performance, it is a good practice to have multiple packs and rotate them, this will help you to have batteries in optimal conditions when you are using them.

Check out our range of batteries and chargers here at Techtonic Hobbies and if you have questions, give us a call or drop us a message!