How to Store LiPo Batteries

Lithium Polymer batteries are great power sources for all sorts of RC vehicles, but they can be expensive. For this reason, it is important to preserve your LiPo batteries during times when you are not using them. By storing the batteries carefully, you can preserve them with limited loss of capacity for up to 10 years.

• Store the batteries in a dry, cool, place after removing them from your equipment.


• Keep batteries in a controlled temperature environment. The ideal storage temperature is between 40 and 70 degrees Fahrenheit.


• Store batteries in a specially designed, flame retardant storage sack, labeled for LiPo batteries for added safety. These bags are available at many hobby supply centers.


• Keep the stored batteries out of direct sunlight and avoid temperature variations, especially extreme heat. Any exposure of 2 hours or more to temperatures above 170 degrees Fahrenheit will permanently damage the batteries and may cause fires.


• Use a programmable charger to charge batteries to between 40% and 60% or between 3.8V and 3.9V per cell. This level of charge allows LiPo batteries to self discharge and maintains their condition while still helping to reduce the capacity loss that comes with aging. 


• Use a Multi Meter to check the charge of stored batteries once a month, and recharge as needed to return the batteries to between 40% and 60% of capacity.


• Discard any battery whose charge has fallen below 2.00 V per cell and remained this low for more than a week. Such batteries are no longer usable.


• Charge batteries fully before use after you retrieve them from storage.