Advantages of Lithium (LifePO4) Batteries

<-- Go back

LifePO4 Battery 12V 10Ah/12Ah

Dreams come true.... 

Lithium batteries are finally available for a reasonable price. 

  • Solar powered gate openers have typically relied on lead acid batteries for power storage. However, this is set to change as superior battery options are becoming affordable. This development is promising, considering that the majority of issues with solar powered systems are battery related. This will be the past as LifePO4 batteries offer significantly improved efficiency and longevity compared to lead acid batteries.

Here’s a clear comparison between lead-acid batteries and LiFePO4 (Lithium Iron Phosphate) batteries to explain why upgrading conventional acid batteries to lithium is a smart choice:

  1. Longer Lifespan
    • Lead-Acid: Typically lasts 300-700 cycles (1day=1cycle). total of 1-2 years (cost. $49)
    • LiFePO4: Can typically last 2,000-3,000 cycles. 5-8 years (cost ca. $79) 
    • Fewer replacements and significantly lower long-term costs, despite the initially higher price.
  2. Better Performance in Cold Weather
    • Lead-Acid: Struggles in cold temperatures, with 50% reduced capacity at 0-degree C.
    • LiFePO4: Performs better in cold conditions, with only 10% reduced capacity at 0 degree, making it more reliable for gate automation systems in winter.
  3. Deep Discharge Capability
    • Lead-Acid: Should only be discharged to about 50% to maintain a longer life.
    • LiFePO4: Can safely discharge up to 80-90% of its capacity without affecting its lifespan much.
  4. Weight and Size
    • Lead-Acid: Heavier for the same capacity.
    • LiFePO4: Much lighter and same size, making installation easier, especially for DIY customers.
  5. Higher Efficiency
    • Lead-Acid: Loses efficiency faster and charges slower. 
    • LiFePO4: Has higher energy efficiency, with quicker charging times.
  6. Safety
    • Lead-Acid: Can leak harmful acid and produce dangerous gases.
    • LiFePO4: Much safer, with no risk of leakage, and it’s thermally stable, meaning it’s less likely to overheat or catch fire.
  7. Environmentally Friendly
    • Lead-Acid: Contains toxic lead and acid that must be carefully recycled.
    • LiFePO4: Much more environmentally friendly, with no hazardous materials, and it has a longer lifespan, reducing waste. 
  8. Limitations of LiFePO4 Batteries
    • LiFePO4 Batteries supply power in below zero temperature, no problem. However, their inability to be charged below 0°C is a limitation for outdoor use in regions that regularly experience sub-zero temperatures for longer than a day or two in a row (during day time) unless precautions are taken.
    • We can supply LiFePO4 battery systems designed for colder climates and they include on-board heating to mitigate this issue. The heating element kicks in during day time when temperatures drop below 0°C, warming the battery to a safe temperature before allowing charging. The power for the heating feature is provided by the solar panel and not by the battery itself. 

Important: LiFePO4 batteries need a different charging voltage than lead acid batteries. You can't use your old charge controller or the battery will be damaged over time. You also have to replace your old charge controller (ca.$19)

This is a complete solution for the Replacement of lead-acid batteries.

LifePO4

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

LifePO4 Graphs

<- Go back