Impact of Storing Power Banks and Wireless Headphones for Long Periods

With the increasing use of portable electronic devices such as power banks and wireless headphones, many users wonder if these devices prevail in battery health over extended periods of inactivity. In this article, we will explore the effects of long-term storage on battery health, especially for those devices equipped with lithium-ion cells.

Do Power Banks and Wireless Headphones Deteriorate When Stored?

Yes, they do. Li-ion batteries, whether in power banks or wireless headphones, can degrade over time, even when not in use. However, the rate of deterioration is influenced by the storage conditions and the initial state of charge (SOC) of the battery.

Best Practices for Long-Term Storage

Follow the manufacturer's instructions for long-term storage. Generally, it is recommended to store devices with their batteries at a moderate charge level, typically around 40%, which helps prevent deep discharge and overcharge. If they are stored at a higher charge, like 100%, they may face accelerated aging due to the constant pressure on the battery chemistry. On the other hand, storing them at a very low charge level, such as 20%, increases the likelihood of self-discharge, which can lead to cell damage over time.

Chemical Degradation and Safety Concerns

Lithium-ion cells are particularly prone to damage when stored in low charge states. Even with devices that indicate "0" capacity and shut down the device, if the voltage drops below a critical point of about 3V, the cell can undergo chemical changes. These changes can lead to the growth of dendrites, which may penetrate the cell's insulator and cause a short circuit. This can not only render the battery unusable but also pose a safety hazard.

When the cell voltage drops below about 2.5V, the battery management system often disconnects the cell to prevent further damage and ensure safety. This is why it is crucial to monitor the state of charge and recharge devices before they reach this critical voltage. Once the cell is in a "forever dead" state, it is too late to salvage the battery, and you may need to replace it entirely.

Optimizing Battery Health for Long-Term Storage

When storing devices with Li-ion batteries, it is essential to strike a balance between battery health and convenience:

Charge to 40%: This helps prevent deep discharge and is more in line with the manufacturer's recommendations for storage. Charge to 20%: While this helps prevent overcharge, it increases the risk of self-discharge and may not be ideal for storage. Charge to 100%: This can cause rapid aging and should be avoided if possible.

Charging to 80% can offer a balance between optimal health and recharging frequency, though it may slightly reduce battery capacity over time.

Conclusion

In summary, lithium-ion batteries in devices like power banks and wireless headphones can deteriorate over long periods of inactivity. Proper storage practices, including monitoring and occasional recharging, are essential to maintain battery health. If you plan to store these devices for extended periods, store them with moderate charge levels to minimize the risk of battery damage and maintain their usability.

Note: Always refer to the manufacturer's guidelines for specific storage recommendations to ensure optimal performance and safety.