Common Questions About Lithium-ion Batteries
If you've been shopping around for a lithium-ion battery or portable power unit, then you've probably come across a lot of questions that people are asking about these. Most people have heard of lithium-ion batteries, but that doesn't mean that they know a lot about them. So what should you know about lithium before you buy?
As a consumer, let's hit pause and take a look at some of the most common questions people ask about lithium-ion rechargeable batteries and generators.
Are Lithium-ion Batteries Safe?
One of the top questions people ask about lithium batteries is whether or not they are safe to use. A lot of these concerns come from stories of these batteries exploding unexpectedly, but rest assured that these are extremely rare occurrences. Lithium-ion batteries are actually considered relatively safe compared to other batteries. And not all lithium is the same. Lithium iron phosphate batteries are the highest quality and safest type of lithium. Lithium polymer is the type of lithium in cell phones and hoverboards.
That being said, there is always the possibility of a random battery malfunctioning or operating incorrectly. Some things to watch for are weird smells, overheating, swelling, or leaking. Again, these are rare things to see in these batteries, but it's best to know what to look for in case there is a risk of fire or explosion.
Something you should be careful of with lithium-ion batteries is air travel. You can take these batteries on airplanes safely, but you can only take up to a certain size of battery onto an airplane. Check the restrictions on lithium-ion batteries for your airline before flying and you should be safe from battery malfunctions as you fly.
Why Choose Lithium-ion Over Lead-acid?
People sometimes buy lead-acid batteries when they need portable power. While lead-acid batteries can work, there are actually several disadvantages to choosing lead-acid batteries over lithium-ion batteries.
The biggest advantage of lithium-ion batteries over lead-acid batteries is the maintenance. Lead-acid batteries require a fair amount of maintenance the whole time you have them. They need to be cleaned and stored at proper temperatures for safety and longevity. And you can only use about half the stated energy of lead acid batteries, not to mention they are much heavier. On the other hand, lithium-ion batteries typically need no maintenance, can use all the stated energy and are lighter weight.
Another advantage of lithium-ion is its ability to hold a charge. When you use a lead-acid battery you have to be careful with the level of charge left in the battery. If you completely drain the battery, it can damage it. Lithium-ion batteries can be completely drained and recharged over and over again without damage. Additionally, if a lead-acid battery sits on a shelf fully charged, the charge will drain out in a couple of months. But a good lithium-ion battery can maintain a full charge for up to a year or more.
What Can You Use Lithium-ion Batteries For? How Long Can You Use Them?
Lithium-ion batteries can be used for a lot of different things. Smaller batteries or portable power units can be used to charge phones and laptops and even run lights for several hours. Larger units are capable of much more, powering things like TVs, refrigerators, and even RVs.
Because these batteries are so versatile, it's hard to say exactly how long the charge will last. Much of that depends on the size of the battery, how much power is needed to run or charge the device you're using, and how long you have the battery attached to the device. However, most batteries are able to run a device or appliance for several hours at a time.
How Durable Are Lithium-ion Batteries?
The durability of lithium-ion batteries depends a lot on the brand of battery you purchased. Some are designed for affordability over durability. That doesn't mean the batteries can't be effective but they may not last as long as more durable batteries.
The best lithium-ion batteries are built with a rugged, durable design that lasts a long time. They're made to be taken anywhere - camping, hiking, fishing, tailgates, road trips, and who knows where else - without being damaged. These batteries can last years if they’re well-built.
How Do You Dispose of Lithium-ion Batteries?
Because lithium-ion batteries are built with a variety of valuable materials and potentially hazardous chemicals, you can't just throw them into your municipal trash or recycling. If you do, they could cause fires or contaminate the environment. Instead, you need to make sure that they are disposed of properly.
To dispose of a lithium-ion battery correctly, you need to take it to a collection point for battery recycling or hazardous materials. This ensures that it is disposed of properly and not mixed in with the municipal trash. It's also a good idea to put the batteries in plastic bags or to cover the battery terminals with tape or plastic. Doing so will keep the battery from coming into contact with other metals and reduce the risk of fire.
If you choose to purchase a high-quality lithium-ion battery, you should be able to have it for several years at least before needing to dispose of it. But as the battery wears out, then it needs to be disposed of in a way that is safe for everyone and the environment. You'll need to check local guidelines for battery disposal to ensure that your batteries are disposed of properly.
Rely On The Best Batteries
If you're looking for a reliable and powerful portable battery or generator, then check out the options at Lion Energy. Lion Energy has a wide variety of options, as well as solar panels that you can easily connect to the batteries and generators for constant clean energy. With a lightweight, rugged design to the flexibility of the portable power units, Lion Energy’s products are ready to go with you on any adventure. Check out our inventory to find the right battery for you today. www.lionenergy.com