How to winterize lithium golf cart batteries
Old Man Winter is coming, and winterizing golf carts is a topic again in the colder regions. As lithium battery usage grows, more people have questions about how to store a battery for winter.
We asked Trojan lithium experts about how to winterize a lithium battery and how lithium batteries work in winter. They helped us set the record straight about what you should and shouldn’t do when the temperature starts dropping.
Should I charge a lithium battery before storing it?
To properly store a lithium battery for cold temperatures, start with charging. You should always charge your battery to 100% before long-term storage.
Why should I store my lithium-ion battery fully charged?
A full charge helps minimize the effects of the slow power drain that occurs with every lithium battery, even in storage. The internal battery management system (BMS) continues to pull milliamps, even when the battery is in storage mode.
A charge level of 100% keeps the battery's software in sync with its charge levels.
Fully charged batteries will be ready for operating in cold temperatures withing Trojan’s rated operating range.
For best results, maintain a 100% charge throughout the storage period. Check your Trojan BMS app once a month or so and charge the battery as needed.
Disconnect your charger once it reaches 100%. Avoid leaving the battery charging needlessly during long-term storage.
“Even if the battery does not power on, it still pulls power. Typical discharge rates can be 1 to 3 amps per month. When it gets extremely cold, that rate goes up.” Richard Sanders, Director of Lithium-ion Sales
Can I charge my lithium battery when it's cold?
The most important factor for charging your battery in the cold months is cell temperature. The cell temperature usually reflects the ambient temperature of the battery's storage location.
This is important. Lithium batteries with the appropriate safety features will not charge if the cell temperature is below 32 degrees Fahrenheit.
If you store the battery in a heated or climate-controlled space between 32°F and 85°F, it's not an issue. Otherwise, the cells need to warm up before they can charge.
How can I warm up the lithium battery cells?
Move the cart to a warmer place.
Drive the golf cart to warm up the battery.
If the battery has a built-in heater, turn it on.
What's the best way to store a lithium battery for winter?
Keeping the battery in a climate-controlled area is best practice when temperatures drop significantly. A golf cart kept outside in freezing temperatures will lose battery power faster. Extreme temperatures can lower the efficiency of lithium batteries over time.
Ideal storage temperature for lithium batteries is between 32 degrees Fahrenheit and 80 degrees Fahrenheit.
Lithium battery storage tips:
If storing in a climate-controlled area, make sure the battery is in storage mode and safely disconnect it from the cart.
If you leave the battery in the cart, put it in storage mode. Also, set the cart to TOW mode. This helps reduce extra power drain.
"If you can't bring the battery inside, the most important thing is to charge it to 100%. Then, put the car in TOW mode. You should be in good shape." - Richard Sanders, Director of Lithium-ion Sales
Can I use a lithium battery in the cold?
Yes, Trojan lithium batteries work well in cold weather.
The rated operating temperature range for Trojan lithium batteries is -4°F to 140°F (-20°C to 60°C).
Why lithium batteries are better for winter storage
Cold weather affects how batteries perform. If you're storing power systems over the winter, this matters. All batteries lose power in freezing temperatures. However, lithium batteries work better in the cold than lead-acid batteries.
Lead-acid battery types struggle in low temperatures. They lose more capacity and can freeze if discharged, which may cause permanent damage. Lithium batteries work better in the cold and are less likely to freeze. This makes them a safer and more reliable option.
Some lithium batteries come with built-in heaters. These allow safe charging in freezing conditions, which adds another layer of protection.
Lithium lasts longer and works better overall. This gives you peace of mind when storing equipment or using it all year.
If you are getting ready for winter, consider using a lithium-ion battery. The Trojan Lithium OnePack is a great option. They offer longer life, more power, and stronger performance when it matters most.