For long-term batt storage -- charged or drained

[HeadLikeOrange]

I've been using my eGo for about a month. I decided I needed to backup my hardware, so I ordered 2 Riva 510 batteries. I find I prefer these batteries to the original eGo ones (3-click shutoff, slightly stronger hit). So, I'm now planning to make my eGo batts my backups in case a Riva fails. Should I drain them before storing them, or store them charged? Or does it not make any difference?

 

[Allan.GH]

Store them charged, and top-up the charge every month. All batteries self-drain, and lithium-based batteries will be damaged if discharged below a certain voltage.

Each chemistry is slightly different in this respect, and it really doesn't serve a purpose to compile a table listing all the battery types and the voltage below which they will sustain damage. Following the rule of thumb, above, is sufficient to assure yourself that the batteries will still be functional when/if you need them.

 

[DC2]

According to Battery University...
How to Prolong Lithium-based Batteries - Battery University

Ideal charge for storage is 40% and the colder the better.
So the idea is to drain them down to 40% and throw them in the freezer.

At 40% charge stored for 2 years at zero degrees celcius you will lose only 2% capacity.
See chart in link above for capacity losses based on variations in charge and temperature at time of storage.

 

[Allan.GH]

Thanks for the corrected info. I'll have to read through more of their information.