Always charge lithium batteries by following the manufacturers' instructions.
Lithium-based batteries are increasingly replacing nickel-based batteries; they weigh much less -- about 40 percent less -- produce higher voltage and last longer. Additionally, they don't suffer from what is often referred to as the "memory effect" that nickel-based batteries do. Memory effect is when you charge your battery fully, but when you use it, you find it goes dead very quickly. However, for all the benefits associated with lithium batteries, there are a few problems that can occur.
Overcharging
Lithium batteries must always be charged using a specifically designed charger. Lithium chargers contain sensors that ensure that the charger cuts off once the battery is charged. If you overcharge a lithium battery, it is likely to catch fire, and at worse, possibly explode.
Overheating
If a lithium battery gets too hot, the effects are similar to those of overcharging: it can catch fire or explode. Lithium batteries get hot when they are charged, and they also get hot when discharging. Always ensure the battery is cool before recharging it. Check the battery during charging, and if it gets too hot, turn off the charger and let it cool. Never leave lithium batteries in direct sunlight or where the temperature gets excessive, such as inside a vehicle.
Over Discharging
While the effects of over discharging a lithium battery are not dangerous, if you do fully discharge it, the battery isn't able to take a charge, as the internal circuitry has been damaged and you will need to get a replacement. However, because of this problem, and to stop it from occurring, lithium battery manufacturers have built-in protection devices. If you discharge your battery by 95 percent of full capacity, it will turn off the device it powers. It is always best to keep an eye on the battery charge indicator and recharge the battery long before it gets discharged to five percent, just in case the protection system fails.
Shelf Life
Lithium batteries need to be used regularly. They last much longer if you keep cycling them -- charging and discharging. A new lithium battery can be fully cycled in excess of 500 times before a replacement is necessary, but if you store it for more than about a year, it deteriorates and eventually you won't be able to charge it.
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