Well. Look what Santa dropped off early!

[Steve H]

You might be aware of this:

Something about lithium batteries and cold temperatures. We have a Cushman Shuttle 2+2 72v with AC motor. Decided to upgrade to lithium. Did some research and purchased a kit. While reviewing the instructions on battery charging. A statement about charging the battery below 34*F was not a good thing was provided. Eastern NC has a mild winter but can dip into low temperatures for a spell. Low temperatures impact the chemistry of the battery and will decrease the life. Went back to several battery sites to see if we had missed this in the information provided, if it was on the site you had to dig for it. Also, the BMS can shut down the battery in low temperatures.
Most recommended keeping the cart in a warm location. Provider of the battery we purchased suggested removing it and keeping it in a warm location. A few recommended heated battery wraps.
We purchased two stick-on battery wraps from a supplier that services various industries as well as the RV industry.
So far it keeps the battery above 34*F. Have not a significant cold snap to test for a week or two.

I've read a ton on this subject. From the manufacturer of this battery. They stated to just turn off golf cart with battery charged. You can unplug if there is a concern of parastic draw. If battery drops below 60% charge when outside temp rises over 32 degrees. I've looked for those wraps. But haven't found one that is recommended for lithium battery pack. Can you provide me info on them please.

 

[rjob]

Great question. Not a chemist or battery expert. The LiFePO4 battery type is what we have. Comments were based on the OEM of the battery and various articles. Battery hubs article found here: https://batteryhubs.com/battery-chemistry-comparison/ provides a long read with many charts, one which compares battery types and performance. LiFePO4 is rated as good in low temperature (-20*C, -4*F), so the article is more positive on low temperature than the OEM. It would be interesting to learn what your battery manufacturer recommends. OEM recommends keeping the battery on charge when vehicle is not in service. Found that a bit odd but that is their recommendation. We plan to monitor battery temperature and if heating pads don't keep temperature up will move to a warmer location. At the price of these batteries plan to be cautious.

 

[rjob]

I've read a ton on this subject. From the manufacturer of this battery. They stated to just turn off golf cart with battery charged. You can unplug if there is a concern of parastic draw. If battery drops below 60% charge when outside temp rises over 32 degrees. I've looked for those wraps. But haven't found one that is recommended for lithium battery pack. Can you provide me info on them please.

Here ya go

LiFePO4 Lithium Battery Warmers | UltraHeat

Yes we manufacture heating systems designed just for the newer Lithium Batteries. Battery Heaters - Made in America

www.ultraheat.com

Part of Annod Industries, Inc

RV Holding Tank Heaters - UltraHeat - Shop

These are the World's premier RV Tank Heaters, when performance matters, Lifetime Warranty

www.annodindustries.com

They provide "RV tank heater pads" cut to fit battery sides. Stick on, went with the 120v units.

 

[Steve H]

Great question. Not a chemist or battery expert. The LiFePO4 battery type is what we have. Comments were based on the OEM of the battery and various articles. Battery hubs article found here: https://batteryhubs.com/battery-chemistry-comparison/ provides a long read with many charts, one which compares battery types and performance. LiFePO4 is rated as good in low temperature (-20*C, -4*F), so the article is more positive on low temperature than the OEM. It would be interesting to learn what your battery manufacturer recommends. OEM recommends keeping the battery on charge when vehicle is not in service. Found that a bit odd but that is their recommendation. We plan to monitor battery temperature and if heating pads don't keep temperature up will move to a warmer location. It the price of these batteries plan to be cautious.

We have LiFePO4 as well. OEM for the cart states keeping the led acid batteries on charge. Was pretty vague on the lithium battery pack. They do recommend not to use the cart with lithium batteries in below freezing weather. Or to charge in below freezing weather. Which I don't plan on doing anyway.

 

[rjob]

Are you talking the actual "charging" of the battery out in below freezing temps ?
Reason questioning is that I know many people that use the Lithium batteries for they're ice fishing electronics, ( ice augers, ff sonar, etc ) and recharge out on the ice with generators as they swap out worn down batteries. I do use 2 lithiums for my ice auger but haven't had to charge out on the lake. Just wondering

Article might provide some info on cold weather battery management.

What Happens When Lithium Batteries Are Charged Below Freezing Temperatures

Low-temperature charging of lithium batteries can cause lithium plating, reduced capacity, and safety risks. Pre-warming and specialized chargers are essential.

www.large-battery.com

 

[sawhorseray]

THAT'LL BE PERFECT FOR YOUR RETIREMENT JOB AS A RV CAMPGROUND HOST!

 

[chopsaw]

Awesome cart , and I'm with the wife . I like the color .

Just an in general comment about Lithium batteries and cold temps . They don't like each other at all .
When I was working the batteries for the tools would not charge , at all , in cold temps .
We would set up the chargers in a heated shed , but they wouldn't last once in use in below freezing temps .

As far as keeping on charge , a good battery tender is well worth the 20 or 30 bucks they cost .
Mine came with 3 different battery side pigtails , that stay with the battery . That way all you do is connect it to the tender side . Don't need to open anything up or take covers off .

 

[chopsaw]

RV CAMPGROUND HOST!

Campground host and sales rep for any and all things you need and don't need .

 

[Winterrider]

Awesome cart , and I'm with the wife . I like the color .

Just an in general comment about Lithium batteries and cold temps . They don't like each other at all .
When I was working the batteries for the tools would not charge , at all , in cold temps .
We would set up the chargers in a heated shed , but they wouldn't last once in use in below freezing temps .

As far as keeping on charge , a good battery tender is well worth the 20 or 30 bucks they cost .
Mine came with 3 different battery side pigtails , that stay with the battery . That way all you do is connect it to the tender side . Don't need to open anything up or take covers off .

Agreed on not lasting out in the cold. I have to keep my augar battery in my inside parka pocket otherwise they are toast