LiPo Battery Care and Storage
Symptoms / When to use this
LiPo batteries are the most dangerous and most perishable component of any FPV build. Correct charging, storage voltage, and disposal dramatically extends pack life and keeps you safe.
Charging
Always charge at 1C or less (e.g. a 1300mAh pack = 1.3A charge rate). Balance charge every session. Never leave a charging pack unattended.
Storage Voltage
If you won't fly within 24 hours, storage-charge to 3.8V per cell. A pack left fully charged degrades noticeably within a week. A pack left fully discharged can become unrecoverable.
Safe Voltage Cutoffs
- Full charge: 4.20V per cell (4.35V for HV cells)
- Storage: 3.80V per cell
- Land now: 3.50V per cell under load
- Never fly below: 3.30V per cell
Puffing
A puffed pack has internal gas from degraded electrolyte. A slightly puffed pack can still be used but monitor it closely. A severely puffed pack should be discharged to 0V and disposed of at a battery recycling point — never in household waste.
Storage Environment
Store in a fireproof LiPo bag, away from flammable material, between 15°C and 25°C. Never leave in a hot car.