Many people do not know how to charge a LiFePO4 battery pack. They thought it should be the same with lead-acid batteries, so some of them even use lead-acid chargers. However, there maybe great risk to do so.

Why? Because LiFePO4 battery pack, also lithium batteries, are different from lead-acid batteries. Their charging mode is constant current and then constant voltage until it reaches a very small current detected, like 0.05C. Usually use a constant current, for example 20A to charge a 12.8V 100Ah LiFePO4 battery, when it reaches 14.4V, switch to use a constant voltage 14.4V to charge it. During this step, the charging current will be smaller and smaller. When the charge current is as low as 0.05C, that is 5Amper, stop charging because the battery 100% full. This is how to get the battery fully charged. Generally BAK New Power engineers don’t recommend customers to charge the battery 100% because it may influence the battery’s cycle life. You can charge it to about 90%-95%.

Following are some other points need to pay attention to.

1. Choose the Right Charger:Use a charger specifically designed for LiFePO4 batteries. Make sure the charger's voltage and current ratings are suitable for your battery pack.
2. Voltage Setting:LiFePO4 batteries have a nominal voltage of 3.2V per cell. When charging, ensure the charger voltage matches the battery voltage. For a multi-cell battery pack, the total voltage should be considered. We usually set the charging voltage to 3.6V for lifepo4 battery cells. For charging voltage of battery packs it depends on the series the configuration is with.
3. Current Limit:LiFePO4 batteries can be charged at a C-rate of 1C safely. However, lower charging rates (0.5C or lower) are often recommended for prolonging battery life. For example, a 100Ah battery ,0.5C means 50 Amper.
4. Temperature Control:Monitor the battery temperature during charging. Avoid charging at extreme temperatures, as high temperatures can damage the battery.
5. Balance Charging:If you have a multi-cell LiFePO4 battery pack, consider using a balance charger to ensure that all cells are charged evenly.
6. Charge Termination:LiFePO4 batteries do not need a full saturation charge like lead-acid batteries. Once the battery reaches its maximum voltage (typically around 3.6V per cell), the charging current should taper off. Do not overcharge the battery.
7. Safety Precautions:Always charge LiFePO4 batteries in a well-ventilated area, away from flammable materials. Use the manufacturer's recommended charging method and equipment to prevent accidents.
8. Storage:If not using the battery immediately after charging, store it in a cool, dry place. Avoid storing the battery in a fully charged or fully depleted state for extended periods.

By following these guidelines and the manufacturer's recommendations, you can safely and effectively charge a LiFePO4 battery pack.

If you have any questions, BAK engineers are glad to help you. Just send your questions to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..