Before winter’s grip on the season, you should prepare your batteries to handle the cold and moisture. Not all batteries are the same, so preparing them for several months of cold storage should be addressed. Here are the most common questions and facts for winter-proofing Flooded Lead-Acid, AGM, and Lithium-ion batteries.
How Do Cold Temperatures Affect Battery Performance?
Cold temperatures slow a battery’s chemical reactions and increase its internal resistance. This reduces capacity, particularly at higher discharge rates. Therefore, for every 18°F (10°C) below room temperature, the battery loses about 10% of its capacity. So, your golf car’s range significantly reduces during extreme cold temperatures.
Will Lithium Batteries Stop Working In Extreme Cold Weather?
The Battery Management System (BMS) can shut down the battery if weather conditions harm its function and operation; lithium batteries will also have reduced capacity in extreme cold conditions.
Can I Charge Lithium Batteries In Extreme Cold?
Lithium batteries have reduced charge acceptance at low temperatures. Depending on battery temperature, hot or cold, the BMS determines if charging is safe. Charging or discharging actions will be temporarily disabled if the battery is below or above set temperatures. Some batteries feature an automatic heater that allows users to charge in colder temperatures. Always check the manufacturer’s specifications to determine if the battery is too cold to be charged.
Can I Accurately Measure The State Of Charge In Cold Weather?
Yes, on FLA batteries using a hydrometer. Subtract four points (.004) from your hydrometer reading for every 10°F below 80°F (5.6°C below 27°C). This is necessary because the optimum hydrometer reading temperature is 80°F (27°C). A fully charged FLA battery should read approximately 1.270 SG.
AGM batteries can be checked using a voltmeter. Check with the battery manufacturer’s specifications to determine the voltage at full charge.
With proper preparation and oversight, Lithium Batteries‘ BMS will accurately monitor the state of charge. However, the battery management system (BMS) relies on calibration to provide accurate SOC readings. If not properly maintained, the calibration can drift over long periods of storage, leading to discrepancies between the indicated SOC and the actual charge level.
Which Types Of Batteries Need To Be Fully Charged Before Cold Winter Storage?
FLA and AGM batteries need a full charge before long-term storage. It prevents the electrolyte from turning to mostly water and freezing. A fully charged FLA and AGM battery has a freezing point below -80°F (-62°C), while a discharged battery has a freezing point of 20°F (-6.7°C) or higher.
Lithium-ion batteries may have a BMS equipped with an on/off button, allowing the battery to be switched off during storage. The BMS, however, needs a minimal amount of power to keep the battery in check, so some power loss is present. Store the batteries at approximately 50% state of charge (80% -100% for extended storage). Periodically check the battery’s charge level every 3-6 months. If the charge level drops below 20%, recharge it to around 50% to prevent over-discharge.
What Is The Self-Discharge Rate Of Lithium, AGM, and FLA Batteries In Cold Conditions?
Lithium batteries’ self-discharge rate is minimal when they are turned off. If the battery must be stored in a cold environment, consider insulating it or using a thermal enclosure to maintain a more stable temperature.
Both AGM and FLA Batteries have different discharge rates depending on temperatures. See these charts below:
In general, be aware that the battery chemistry you use in your golf car can determine how well it will perform in frigid temperatures. Always check the battery manufacturer’s website for recommendations and charging methods for your battery type.