In the realm of battery maintenance, the practice of daily cycling plays a crucial role in ensuring optimal performance and extending battery lifespan. While the temptation to maintain batteries at 100% State of Charge (SOC) is understandable, integrating daily cycling into the routine—even at a modest Depth of Discharge (DOD) of 10-20%—proves beneficial for long-term battery health.
Daily cycling involves discharging the battery to a certain extent before recharging it, typically aiming for an 80% DOD (down to 20% SOC). While some may opt for minimal cycling to maintain high SOC levels, daily cycling offers several advantages for battery health over time.
Lithium iron phosphate (LFP) batteries, like other lithium-based chemistries, benefit from stable electrolyte conditions. Constantly maintaining batteries at 100% SOC can lead to electrolyte instability, accelerating cell degradation. Daily cycling helps keep the electrolyte in a stable state, mitigating corrosive effects and promoting extended battery life.
While discharging batteries to an 80% DOD ensures optimal health and performance, concerns about available capacity may arise. In such cases, discharging to only 10-20% DOD remains acceptable, albeit with some trade-offs. However, it's crucial to strike a balance between preserving capacity and maximizing battery lifespan.
High SOC levels correlate with elevated voltage states, increasing the likelihood of voltage fluctuations and cell stress. By regularly discharging the battery, even to a moderate extent, users can mitigate these fluctuations, ensuring consistent performance and preventing premature degradation.
In conclusion, embracing daily cycling—preferably to an 80% DOD—is paramount for long-term battery health. By discharging the battery daily, users can preserve electrolyte stability, mitigate voltage fluctuations, and ultimately extend battery lifespan. Whether discharging to an 80% DOD or opting for minimal cycling to preserve capacity, striking a balance between immediate power availability and sustained battery health is crucial.
For further guidance or inquiries regarding battery maintenance practices, feel free to reach out to our support team.