Around the world, electric vehicles, energy storage systems, and industrial equipment are increasingly adopting lithium batteries. From household appliances, shavers, charging LED lights to consumer electronics, lithium batteries are becoming ubiquitous. However, many users often confuse lithium batteries with lead-acid batteries and use lead-acid chargers to charge lithium batteries. This practice is extremely dangerous. Common safety hazards include fire and explosion, which must not be ignored.
Why Lithium Batteries Cannot Use Lead-Acid Chargers
Voltage Differences
Lead-acid chargers usually have higher output voltage than the safe charging voltage of lithium batteries. Using them forcibly may overcharge, overheat, or even damage the battery, and in severe cases, cause fire or explosion.
Mismatched Charging Modes
Lead-acid chargers typically use two-stage or three-stage charging methods, while lithium batteries require precise constant current/constant voltage control. Using the wrong mode can shorten battery life or trigger the battery protection mechanism.
Different Safety Requirements
Lithium batteries have much higher safety standards than lead-acid batteries. Using a lead-acid charger can cause the battery to swell, overheat, or even catch fire, posing severe risk to equipment and personal safety.
Potential Risks
- Insufficient Charging: Lead-acid chargers cannot fully charge lithium batteries, reducing usable capacity.
- Overcharging Hazard: Excess voltage may damage cells and shorten battery life.
- Battery Performance Decline: Long-term use of mismatched chargers degrades lithium battery capacity and lifespan.
- Severe Safety Incidents: Fire and explosion are not exaggerations—they are real-world risks.
Safe Charging Recommendations
Use Dedicated Chargers
Ensure lithium batteries use lithium battery chargers and lead-acid batteries use lead-acid chargers. Fangxin Power offers high-performance chargers compatible with various lithium batteries, ensuring safe charging.
Follow Local Voltage Standards
Different countries have different voltage standards. Confirm that chargers are compatible with local power sources. Fangxin chargers with global input voltage standards can adapt to AC voltage in different regions.
Never Mix Chargers
Do not mix lithium and lead-acid chargers—this is the most important safety rule.
Fangxin reminds you again: whether you are in China, the U.S., Europe, or South America, always provide dedicated chargers for each battery type. Safe charging protects both your devices and your life.
External Reference: Battery University – Lithium Battery Safety