The batteries in drones have a tough life. Developers of lithium polymer LiPo batteries may have never envisaged them so exposed to the elements. Perhaps they imagined them tucked up safely in devices kept in warm environments. Whatever the case, limited drone battery life is one of the most challenging aspects of the new hobby.
Things That Can Go Wrong When LiPo Batteries Fail
A number of things can bring drone battery life to a sudden end, and perhaps a beloved device too. Lithium-polymer drone batteries can overcharge, or over-discharge. They could overheat and catch fire. Their electrolyte could leak all over the drone electronics while we are at work or school.
Problems may arise when we over stress a drone battery by using the vehicle in extreme temperatures. We can over-strain it too, for example by flying into strong wind or carrying a heavy load. Drones are too expensive to treat like cheap toys. Drone battery care takes discipline and this starts at the recharging station.
Extending Drone Battery Life When Recharging
After we fully charge, and fully discharge a new drone battery we should not do this again for another month. Drone batteries are most efficient between 20% and 80% of full charge. In other words, you get more miles in this range.
Always remove a lithium polymer battery from a drone before charging it, just in case it leaks. Some drone enthusiasts charge their batteries inside fireproof bags. This is a wise precaution if you are leaving the room for a while.
Always treat the battery gently in order to mitigate damage. This includes avoiding hard maneuvers especially if your battery is under-spec. Gravity forces can cause power spikes that push battery limits beyond design parameters. You can extend drone battery life by choosing the right battery from a reliable supplier. Do your research carefully. Your drone is not a rocket ship.
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1 Comment
Now I know why my drone doesn’t last longer. Thanks for sharing these tips, these are really helpful.