How to charge lithium iron phosphate battery correctly?
Properly charging LiFePO4 batteries ensures longevity and performance. However, with so many charging options available, users face significant challenges in determining the best charging solution. We recommend three reliable methods for charging lithium iron phosphate batteries: lithium iron phosphate battery chargers, generators, and solar panels.
1.Lithium iron phosphate battery charger
Lithium iron phosphate battery charger is the most common and reliable method for charging lithium iron phosphate batteries. LiFePO4 battery chargers often have advanced features such as overcharge protection, temperature monitoring, and automatic shut-off to further improve battery life and safety.
Please use a dedicated lithium iron phosphate battery charger to charge your lifepo4 battery, and plug the charger directly into the battery. The charger will automatically complete the charging process.
Please select the appropriate charging mode according to the table below:
| Battery series | Best charging voltage | Charging voltage range |
| 12V | 14.4V | 14.2V-14.6V |
| 24V | 28.8V | 28.4V-29.2V |
| 36V | 43.2V | 42.6V-43.8V |
| 48V | 54.0V | 53.25V-54.75V |
2.Generator
When you're outdoors or in remote areas with limited power, a generator is ideal for charging lithium iron phosphate batteries. When using a generator to charge lithium iron phosphate batteries, please pay attention to the following points:
Make sure the generator is powerful enough to charge the battery. The power of the generator should be greater than or equal to the rated power of the charger.
Ensure compatibility between the generator's output voltage and the battery charger's input voltage. Most generators have an output voltage of 220V, while battery chargers usually have an input voltage of 12V or 24V. You will need an inverter to convert the alternating current from the generator to the direct current required by the lifepo4 battery charger.
Set the correct charging voltage and current. The charging voltage of lithium iron phosphate battery should be between 3.0V and 3.65V, and the charging current should not exceed 0.5C of battery capacity.
If the alternator or generator supports DC output, a DC-DC charger needs to be added between the battery and generator. If the alternator/generator supports AC output, add a suitable battery charger between the battery and generator as recommended in "LiFePO4 Battery Chargers" above.
CM Batteries' Lithium Iron Phosphate batteries can be charged using an alternator or generator, providing flexible charging options for a variety of power sources.
3. Solar panels
Charging lithium iron phosphate batteries with solar panels is an environmentally friendly and sustainable method. However, you need to use a solar charge controller to regulate the output voltage of the solar panel and ensure that it does not exceed the charging voltage limit of the battery.
When charging with a solar panel, follow these steps:
Connect the solar charge controller to the solar panel.
Set the solar charge controller's output voltage to the battery's nominal voltage.
Connect the solar charge controller to the battery.
Place the solar panel in a sunny location.
Monitor the battery voltage to ensure it does not exceed the charging voltage limit.
A typical 12V 100Ah lithium iron phosphate battery can be charged using a 300W solar panel, which can fully charge the battery in one day (effective sunlight 4.5 hours/day).
Additionally, solar panel charging is convenient for individuals who frequently engage in outdoor activities such as camping, fishing, hiking, or working outdoors. You can easily carry a portable solar panel and set it up to charge your batteries. You don’t have to rely on electrical outlets or generators, which create noise and emit harmful fumes.
