Charge RC batteries & accumulators correctly
Strong, long-lasting rechargeable batteries and batteries provide for maximum driving fun. So that your battery lasts as long as possible and does not lose power prematurely, the correct charging is important. Note the differences that exist here depending on the battery type.
Find out in the following article how you can charge your RC batteries properly and where the differences are in the battery models.
What types of RC batteries are there?
There are mainly three different battery types. To charge RC batteries correctly, you must know the specific battery type.
These battery types exist:
- LiPo batteries: light, compact, high capacity, but relatively sensitive and expensive
- NiMh batteries: inexpensive, robust, somewhat less power
- Li-Ion batteries: ready for use immediately, powerful, very durable
A LiPo (lithium polymer) battery is relatively compact compared to other variants and yet offers a high capacity. The battery is lighter than a NiMh battery and has a higher performance, but it is more expensive and more sensitive.
NiMh (nickel-metal hydride) batteries are significantly cheaper and extremely robust, but less suitable for peak performance. At the same time, they are considered comparatively safe and are thus suitable for use by children. The storage is also more uncomplicated than LiPo batteries, a separate fire protection bag is not necessary here.
The third variant is the Li-Ion (lithium-ion) battery. This does not have to be charged before the first use, but is immediately ready for use. The battery is also powerful and very durable.
At CARSON you can find various LiPo batteries, but also NiMH batteries and various Li-ion batteries for your RC vehicles.
What must be considered when charging a LiPo battery?
If you want your battery to last as long as possible, handling it correctly is crucial. In addition to the appropriate charger, it depends on the way of charging as well as a correct storage.
Therefore, you should also devote as much time to the topic of "charging RC batteries properly" as you do to the care and maintenance of your RC vehicle. For all three battery types it is important that you use an appropriate charging cable and charger.
Charging LiPo RC batteries correctly - this is how it works
Use a charger that is specifically suitable for LiPo batteries to charge your RC batteries properly. If you handle your battery carefully and avoid overcharging, up to 600 charge cycles are possible without any problems. Before the first use is still no energy in the LiPo battery, but you must charge it first.
Which charge current for your battery optimal is, you will find out either on the charger, its packaging or also in the manual. Pay particular attention here to the values that are on the battery.
Use a fireproof battery bag for storage and always keep your battery in the correct storage voltage. If possible, it should not be left completely empty or charged for more than 14 days.
What must be considered when charging a NiMH battery?
If you want to charge your NiMH battery properly, the following things are important.
To charge a NiMH battery properly, be especially careful during the first charging cycles by using a low charging current. The maximum capacity reaches this battery type only after three complete charge and discharge cycles. After that, the NiMH battery can also be charged with higher charging current, so you are done with charging much faster.
Most suitable for this battery type is a charger that switches off automatically, as soon as the full charge level is reached. So you avoid overcharging with damage to your battery. For longer periods of non-use, a charge level of 50% and a room temperature of about 20°C are recommended. Every two months, a recharge is necessary so that the battery is not completely discharged.
Tip: Every ten charging cycles, a slow charge is recommended, as this increases the life of a NiMH battery. Also, always let your batteries cool down completely before you put them on the charger.
What must be considered when charging Li-lon RC batteries?
Also in dealing with the Li-Ion battery are some rules to follow if you want to charge RC batteries properly.
A Li-Ion battery you do not have to charge several times before the first use, but this is usually immediately ready for use. However, you need a special charger for this battery type and should have the battery regularly in use.
The ideal charge level for this battery type is between 30 and 80 percent. If the Li-Ion battery reaches a charge level of 10 to 20 percent, you charge it. Do not wait until it is completely empty to preserve the long life.
Store this type of battery at room temperature and never directly in the sun, as heat limits performance or capacity. For longer storage, recharge every 12 months to avoid damaging the battery cells.
Tip: Dry, cool and never directly in the sun - the correct storage is important for the shelf life in addition to RC batteries properly charge.
Conclusion: This should be considered when charging RC batteries
To make your model battery last as long as possible, it is very important to handle it correctly. Depending on the battery type, different procedures are recommended when charging. Always let your battery cool down after use before charging it again. Also pay attention to the correct storage when the battery is not in use.
To charge your RC batteries properly, you must know the exact type. This is because LiPo batteries, as well as NiMH batteries and Li-ion batteries, each require different procedures for charging and storage. High-quality chargers with automatic charge end detection avoid overheating.
Here you will find our complete range of high-quality RC model batteries and rechargeable batteries.