【Full Guide】Can I Charge LiFePO4 Battery with a Normal Charger?

Can I Charge LiFePO4 Battery with a Normal Charger？

As the demand for sustainable energy storage solutions grows, LiFePO4 batteries have emerged as a reliable and eco-friendly option. At the same time, the questions “Can I charge LiFePO4 battery with a normal charger” or “Can I charge my LiFePO4 battery with a lead acid charger” are increasingly be asked.

 In this article, we will delve into the LiFePO4 battery charging logic and why Redodo doesn’t recommend using lead-acid charger to charge LiFePO4 batteries.

LiFePO4 Battery Charging Logic

The inherent properties of the LiFePO4 battery dictate a distinct charging profile, setting it apart from traditional lead-acid counterparts. The LiFePO4 battery exhibits a simplified charging process and mode, rendering it advantageous for your charging preferences. Hence, it is advisable to opt for the LiFePO4 charging method.

1.LiFePO4 Charging Mode

Take chargingRedodo 12V 100Ah minifor example.

CC (Constant Current) Phase (T1)

In the beginning, a discharged battery will be charged with a constant current and voltage will be climbing steadily until reaching the constant voltage setpoint which varies for different charging methods.

CV (Constant Voltage) Phase (T2)

The battery maintains a constant voltage during this phase while the current gradually decreases to 2A (0.02C) which is also known as tail current. At this point, the charging is cut off and the battery is fully charged.

Tail Current(A) = Battery Capacity*0.02C E.g., 100Ah*0.02C=2A tail current.

2.Lead Acid Charging Mode

Bulk/Boost Phase (T1)

At the onset, a discharged battery undergoes charging with maximum current, gradually ascending towards the absorption voltage setpoint. During this phase, reminiscent of the LiFePO4 battery's CC phase, voltage steadily rises.

Absorption Phase (T2)

Once the battery reaches the absorption voltage setpoint, it maintains a constant voltage while the current gradually diminishes, leading to near-full capacity (around 10-20% remaining). Generally, the absorption phase lasts no longer than 3 hours to avert overcharging. This phase corresponds to the CV phase in LiFePO4 battery charging.

Float Phase (T3)

Following the absorption stage, the battery's voltage reduces to the float voltage setpoint, accompanied by a decline in current to a lower maintenance mode. This safeguards against self-discharging and offsets any potential power loss. In cases where the battery experiences heavier discharge, the controller may revert to the Bulk/Boost or Absorption phases to replenish the expended energy while an energy source is available. It's important to note that the LiFePO4 battery does not incorporate this particular charging phase.

Therefor, we do not recommend using lead acid charger to charge lifepo4 battery beacuse its charging profile is not optimized for the LiFePO4 chemistry. Using a lead acid charger may result in suboptimal charging efficiency and could potentially lead to damage or reduced lifespan of the LiFePO4 battery.

3 Recommended Ways to Charge LiFePO4 Batteries

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