Improper storage of batteries can shorten their lifespan by up to half! Learn how to avoid mistakes and ensure the longevity of your batteries. Optimal conditions, key rules and the most common mistakes – check out our practical guide.
Take care of your batteries and don’t make these mistakes!
Batteries are an integral part of our everyday lives – they power smartphones, laptops, cameras and power tools. However, improper storage can shorten their lifespan. Too low or too high a temperature, deep discharge or moisture are just some of the hazards that can lead to degradation.
In this guide, you will find specific tips on how to store different types of batteries – from power banks to professional V-Mounts. You will also learn how to avoid the most common mistakes and what to do when a battery stops working. Check out how to take care of your batteries and save money on their premature replacement!
The ideal storage temperature
Temperature is crucial for battery life. High temperatures accelerate battery degradation, while too low temperatures can lead to a loss of capacity. The optimal temperature range for most batteries is 15-20°C. Avoid storing batteries in direct sunlight, near radiators or in cold basements.
Batteries for special tasks
Some batteries have to meet exceptional challenges. If you photograph wildlife, shoot documentaries in difficult terrain or report in dynamic conditions, you need batteries that can meet any challenge. Newell SupraCell are replacements made for professionals. They are resistant to extreme temperatures from -20°C to 90°C, equipped with NTC resistors to ensure stable operation and enclosed in a V1 fireproof housing. This ensures that your equipment will not let you down at the least expected moment. In addition, the intelligent IC protection system protects the cells from overheating, overcharging and overloading. If you are looking for reliable batteries that can withstand intensive use, Newell SupraCell is your best choice.
Charge level before storage
Different types of batteries require different levels of charge before long-term storage:
- Lithium-ion (Li-Ion, Li-Poly) – best stored charged to about 40-60%. Fully discharging or charging to 100% can accelerate degradation.
- Nickel-metal hydride (Ni-MH) – storing partially charged (30–50%) helps maintain their efficiency.
- Lead-acid (SLA, AGM, gel) – best stored fully charged to prevent sulfation, i.e. irreversible damage to the cells.
Protection against moisture and air
Moisture can lead to corrosion of contacts and damage to batteries. To prevent this:
- Store batteries in dry rooms with good air circulation.
- Avoid plastic, airtight packaging if it does not have a moisture removal system.
- In places with high humidity, it is worth using moisture absorbers (e.g. silica gel sachets).
Storage in suitable containers
Safety is a priority, so it is worth using suitable containers.
- Use original caps or special battery containers to avoid short circuits.
- Do not store batteries in bulk, especially those with exposed contacts – they can accidentally touch each other and cause a short circuit.
- Avoid storing in uninsulated metal containers as this can increase the risk of a short circuit.
These mistakes shorten the life of your batteries!
Improper storage of batteries can lead to faster wear or even damage. Here are the most common mistakes:
- Discharging lithium-ion batteries completely can lead to irreversible cell damage.
- Storing in hot or very cold places – accelerates degradation and reduces capacity.
- Leaving batteries in devices for a long time – if the batteries are leaking, chemicals may leak out or the cell may even swell, making it difficult to remove it from the compartment.
- No periodic recharging – this mainly concerns nickel-metal hydride and lead-acid batteries, which can lose capacity as a result of long periods of inactivity.
How to prepare batteries for long-term storage?
If you are not going to use the batteries for a long time, it is worth taking additional precautions:
- Periodically check the voltage – this is especially important for lithium-ion batteries, which should not be stored completely discharged.
- Avoid contact with metal objects – accidental contact between the poles can lead to a short circuit.
- Labeling and organization – if you store multiple batteries, label them with the date of the last charge so you don’t forget to do periodic maintenance.
Batteries in different devices
Some devices require special storage conditions for batteries. Here are a few key tips:
- Cameras – Li-Ion batteries should be stored at 40-60% charge and preferably outside the device. Regular charging once every few months prevents deep discharge.
- V-mount batteries – These are used in film equipment and should be stored at room temperature and regularly recharged if not used for a long time.
- Power banks – To avoid a drop in capacity, it is best to store them charged to 50–70%. It is a good idea to recharge them from time to time.
- Power tools – Drill, sander and circular saw batteries should be stored in a dry place, ideally charged to 30–50%. Leaving them fully discharged for long periods can damage the cells.
- Drones – Drone batteries should be stored at room temperature and partially charged. It is also a good idea to use protective bags for LiPo batteries.
- Laptops – If you plan not to use your laptop for a long period of time, it is advisable to disconnect the battery (if possible) and store it charged to 40–50%.
Recycling and disposal of used batteries
Every battery has a certain number of charging cycles and eventually loses its performance. When you notice a significant drop in capacity, it is worth taking care of proper disposal:
- Do not throw batteries in the regular trash – they contain substances harmful to the environment.
- Take them to an electronic waste collection point or a place that accepts used batteries.
- Lead-acid batteries can be taken to a recycling center.
Proper storage of batteries is the key to their long life and reliable operation. By following our tips, you will avoid costly replacements and ensure that your devices work for longer. And if your battery has already lost its performance, choose proven Newell replacements! In our offer, you will find high-quality batteries compatible with popular brands of electronics, cameras, video cameras, vacuum cleaners, Bluetooth speakers or power tools. We offer long life, safe use and excellent value for money.
👉 Check our offer and find the perfect replacement for your device!
