How Does My Battery Technology Handle Cold Weather?

Missouri Wind And Solar Podcast

On today's episode, Wes and David wrangle owner Crystal Shank into a discussion of battery technology and the impact of cold weather.

Lithium-ion batteries have a relatively stable voltage output and are less affected by cold temperatures compared to lead-acid batteries. However, the cold weather can reduce the capacity and efficiency of lithium-ion batteries, leading to shorter battery life and reduced performance. To minimize the effects of cold temperatures, lithium-ion batteries must be stored and used within a specified temperature range and protected from extreme cold weather.

Lead-acid batteries, on the other hand, are more susceptible to cold temperatures and can experience reduced capacity and reduced efficiency in cold weather. In extreme cold weather conditions, lead-acid batteries can freeze and become damaged, which can cause them to lose capacity and performance permanently. To prevent damage, lead-acid batteries must be kept warm in cold weather, either by using a battery blanket or by keeping them in a warm area.

Absorbed Glass Mat (AGM) batteries are a type of lead-acid battery that are designed to be more resistant to cold temperatures. AGM batteries use a special glass mat separator that holds the electrolyte in place and prevents it from freezing in cold weather. As a result, AGM batteries have a better performance in cold weather compared to traditional lead-acid batteries. However, they are still affected by cold temperatures, and their capacity and efficiency can be reduced in extreme cold weather conditions.