Batteries That Work Best In Cold Weather

For Canadians and other countries with a cold climate, one of the most concerning issues could be choosing the best lithium batteries for boats, RVs and motorhomes that performs well in harsh conditions. In Canada, winter usually lasts from mid-December to mid-March, and it's crucial to find the best battery bank which can last longer in this condition.

In this article, we will review which types of batteries can be an ideal solution among the top types of batteries, such as Lead Acid, LiFePO4 and AGM Batteries.

Get to know AGM, Lead Acid and LiFePO4 Batteries

What are AGM Batteries?

First and foremost, let’s start with some basics about AGM Batteries. Absorbent Glass Mat or AGM Batteries, in contrast to conventional flooded batteries, include glass mats that protect the fragile lead plates.

An AGM battery is made to provide robust starting amps and run for an extended period of time. AGM batteries can retain electricity for a long period of time because they include valves that control how much hydrogen and oxygen gas escapes during charging. 

Lead-Acid Batteries

A Lead Acid battery utilizes lead acid chemistry and sulfuric acid to operate. In order to facilitate a regulated chemical reaction, the lead is soaked in sulfuric acid, and the battery generates electricity from this chemical process.

Then, to recharge the battery, this reaction is reversed. Sealed lead-acid are one of the common battery types in solar power systems. 

They have a fair lifespan and inexpensive cost despite having a low energy density, only modest efficiency, and high maintenance needs. 

LiFePO4 Battery

The last 25 years have seen the development of lithium-ion batteries, which are a considerably more recent invention. Lithium technologies have grown in acceptance throughout time as a result of their success in supplying power to portable electronics like laptops and cell phones.

But as you may know from a number of recent news articles, lithium-ion batteries also developed a bad reputation for igniting. This was one of the primary reasons lithium wasn't frequently used to build sizable battery banks until recently. Read more about lithium ion battery vs LiFePO4.

However, lithium iron phosphate (LiFePO4) is a more recent kind of lithium solution with a little lower energy density but was by nature non-combustible. In addition to being safer than other lithium chemistries, LiFePO4 batteries have several advantages, especially for high-power applications. For more information about LiFePO4 batteries, check our latest article to find the best lithium battery.

Performance Comparison in Cold Climate: AGM, Lead Acid and LiFePO4 batteries

AGM Batteries Performance in Winter Season

RV, marine, and other deep cycle batteries cannot be stored and forgotten about when not used over winter. AGM batteries can function well below freezing, although all batteries can freeze if it gets cold enough.

AGM battery needs to be examined and maintained while they are stored over the winter, even though they are maintenance-free and perform well in cold conditions. The cold cranking amps (CCAs) rating of AGM batteries is higher than that of a typical battery. 

Your RV or boat's AGM battery will start up more quickly in cooler weather than a regular battery. AGM batteries can withstand frigid temperatures since they have a low self-discharge rate.

Additionally, compared to other batteries, AGM batteries can be stored for extended periods of time before requiring a charge.

Golden Tips for AGM Battery Owners in Winter

The worst thing you can do is store an AGM battery without first charging it because all batteries naturally self-discharge. During winter, you have two options for keeping your batteries. Make sure your boat or RV AGM battery is fully charged before you totally disconnect the battery.

Second, you can continue using the AGM battery in your boat or RV as long as you switch it to maintenance mode. By doing this, your battery won't be drained by your boat or RV.

How Well Do Lead Acid Battery Perform in Winter?

Understanding how temperature affects the chemistry and capacity of lead-acid batteries can be crucial for their owners, particularly during winter months. Lead-acid batteries do experience a reduction in capacity in colder weather. Typically, capacity diminishes by about 20% in normal cold conditions and can drop by approximately 50% at temperatures as low as -22°F (-30°C).

However, it's important to note that lead-acid batteries are still a viable option for many applications, even though they are generally less efficient in extreme cold compared to some newer technologies like LiFePO4 (lithium iron phosphate) batteries. Lead-acid batteries have been a reliable power source for many years, and their performance in cold weather can often be managed with proper care and maintenance.

To help you better understand the specifics, here are some details on temperature effects: at around -80°F (-62°C), the electrolyte in a fully charged flooded lead-acid battery will freeze, while a drained battery will freeze at roughly -7°F (-20°C). However, it's worth noting that these temperatures are extreme, and under typical cold weather conditions, the electrolyte’s freezing point is not usually a concern for most users.

It’s also important to distinguish between freezing points and operational temperatures. Once a lead-acid battery physically freezes, it is likely to be irreparably damaged. Therefore, maintaining proper charge levels and avoiding extreme temperatures is crucial to extending the life of the battery.

While lead-acid batteries might not perform as well as lithium-based batteries in cold conditions, they remain a second favorable choice due to their robustness, lower initial cost, and well-established technology. For many off-grid applications or those requiring a reliable backup power source, lead-acid batteries can still offer dependable performance with the right precautions. 

LiFePO4: The Winner of the Winter Battle

LiFePO4 or LFP batteries are suitable for almost all conditions (temperatures ranging from -4°F to 140°F(-20C to 60C)). Lithium batteries are an excellent alternative for continuous, dependable power for off-grid solar, RV, and Camper Van owners who live or travel in extremely cold climates. This is great news for countries that experience harsh weather conditions, such as Canada or those who want to live or travel with their motorhome during winter.

Lead-acid batteries operate at 70–80% of their rated capacity at temperatures below 32°F, significantly reducing their efficiency and useful capacity. On the other hand, Lithium batteries can function with relatively little loss at the same temperature, delivering 95–98% of their capacity.

Moreover, a lead-acid battery typically becomes weaker in colder weather the more you draw from it. Conversely, LFP batteries warm up when you use them, which reduces the battery's resistance and raises its voltage. 

It is clear that cold weather can adversely impair the health and lifetime of conventional batteries in general. Even with lithium batteries, the effects of cold weather on battery life exist. However, when it comes to comparison and finding the best battery that performs well in harsh conditions, LiFePO4 performs way better than other competitors.

Recommendation From our Experts in Volts Energies

There are many LiFePO4 batteries on the market from different brands designed in different parts of the world, such as Victron Energy, Pylontech, Lithium Battery Solution, Zendure, BattleBorn, Elios, Renogy and many more. 

If you're looking for the best LiFePO4 batteries to endure the harsh and cold weather conditions of Canada, our experts at Volts Energies suggest six top-tier brands: Battle Born, Zendure, Victron Energy, Volts Energies, Pylontech and Elios . 

These brands have established themselves as industry leaders, providing batteries that excel in performance, reliability, and durability, making them ideal for the challenging climate of Canada.

#1 Battle Born Lithium Batteries

Over the past few years, Battle Born has emerged as a trailblazer with its cutting-edge lithium-ion batteries in Canada. Among its standout offerings, the Battle Born BB10012 and its heated version BB10012H have become the epitome of innovation, addressing the demands of industries and individuals alike. With a steadfast commitment to sustainability and reliability, Battle Born has crafted these powerhouses to redefine the way we approach energy storage and consumption. 

The 100Ah 12V LiFePO4 Deep Cycle Battery and its heated counterpart, the BB10012H, share a common mission: to provide a robust and long-lasting power solution for various applications. These lithium batteries boast a 100Ah capacity, making it an ideal choice for marine, RV, and off-grid setups.  

Meanwhile, the Battle Born heated version steps up the game with enhanced capacity and durability, catering to the more demanding power needs of larger vehicles and industrial applications. Both batteries feature cutting-edge lithium iron phosphate (LiFePO4) technology, ensuring not only a longer lifespan but also remarkable stability and safety.  

These batteries are designed to withstand the harshest conditions, from extreme temperatures to rigorous vibrations, making them a reliable choice for those who seek power solutions that can truly endure the test of time and usage. 

#2 Victron Energy Lithium Batteries

Victron Energy is renowned for its comprehensive energy solutions, and their LiFePO4 batteries are no exception. The Victron Smart Lithium batteries, for example, come equipped with an integrated Battery Management System that actively monitors and balances cells, ensuring longevity and reliable performance even in extreme temperatures.  

Additionally, Victron's batteries are designed to seamlessly integrate with their broader ecosystem of solar charge controllers, inverters, and monitoring devices, providing users with a holistic and interconnected energy solution. This makes Victron Energy an attractive choice for those looking for a well-integrated and adaptable system to tackle the challenges of Canadian winters. 

#3 Zendure Lithium Batteries

Zendure lithium batteries are a top choice for harsh winter conditions, thanks to their advanced thermal management and cold-weather performance. Designed to operate efficiently in temperatures as low as -4°F (-20°C) and to charge at temperatures around 32°F (0°C), they outperform lead-acid batteries in cold climates.

Their high energy density allows for a compact design that delivers more power per unit of size. Zendure batteries also offer a long cycle life, enduring numerous charge and discharge cycles without significant degradation, making them reliable for extended use in winter.

Equipped with an intelligent Battery Management System (BMS), Zendure batteries ensure safety and optimal performance by protecting against overcharging, deep discharging, and temperature extremes. Their modular design also allows for scalable energy storage, suitable for both residential and commercial needs.

Overall, Zendure lithium batteries provide superior performance and reliability in cold weather compared to lead-acid batteries, making them an excellent option for challenging winter conditions.

#4 Volts Lithium Battery

Among the top-tier brands recommended by our experts at Volts Energies, the Volts LiFePO4 Smart Self Heating 12V/100Ah Battery stands out as a stellar choice for Canada's challenging winter conditions. Engineered with utmost lithium iron phosphate (LiFePO4) battery technology, this battery boasts an innovative self-heating feature.

This feature ensures that the battery maintains optimal performance even in freezing temperatures, making it an ideal solution for the harsh Canadian winter. The Volts LiFePO4 Smart Self Heating Battery is designed to deliver reliable and sustained power, providing peace of mind in the most extreme weather conditions.

In the realm of enduring Canadian winters, the Volts LiFePO4 Smart Self Heating 12V/100Ah Battery emerges as a resilient champion. Crafted with a forward-thinking approach, this battery fuses innovation and durability to tackle the toughest weather conditions. Its adaptive self-heating mechanism ensures unwavering performance in freezing temperatures, providing a reliable power source when it's needed most.

Moreover, the battery's intelligent design, characterized by high energy density and a seamlessly integrated modular structure, not only caters to diverse energy storage demands but also streamlines installation and maintenance. Navigating the rigors of Canadian landscapes has never been more efficient and reliable.

#5 Pylontech Lithium Batteries

Pylontech stands out as a premier option for harsh winter conditions due to several features embedded in their cutting-edge lithium iron phosphate (LiFePO4) battery technology. One of their flagship models, the Pylontech US3000C series, embodies these characteristics, making it an excellent choice for Canadian climates. 

The exceptional energy density of Pylontech batteries ensures that they can deliver sustained and reliable power even in extremely cold temperatures. This is crucial for applications in Canada, where winter conditions can be severe.  

High efficiency is another hallmark of Pylontech batteries, ensuring that a significant portion of the stored energy is efficiently converted and utilized, minimizing energy wastage and optimizing performance. 

Pylontech's commitment to longevity is evident in the long cycle life of their batteries. The US5000 series, for instance, is designed to endure a high number of charge-discharge cycles without significant degradation. This feature is particularly important in harsh weather conditions, where the battery may experience frequent charging and discharging cycles. 

An intelligent Battery Management System (BMS) is a standout feature of Pylontech batteries. This system actively monitors and manages the individual cells within the battery, ensuring they operate within optimal parameters. The BMS plays a crucial role in safeguarding the battery against overcharging or discharging, which is vital in extreme weather conditions where battery stress is heightened. This level of protection contributes to the overall reliability and safety of Pylontech batteries. 

Moreover, Pylontech's modular design is a key advantage, allowing for scalability to meet varying energy storage needs. This flexibility is essential for adapting to the dynamic energy requirements of different applications, from residential setups to large-scale commercial projects. The modular design also facilitates easier installation and maintenance, providing an added convenience for users in the challenging Canadian landscape. Read more about Pylontech on our comprehensive review.

#6 Elios Sealed Lead Acid Batteries

If you’re considering a lead-acid battery for your needs, Elios sealed lead acid batteries are a strong option to explore. Elios sealed lead acid (SLA) batteries offer a robust and reliable option for a range of applications, including those in colder climates.

While they may not match the cold-weather performance of advanced lithium batteries, Elios sealed lead acid batteries have their own set of advantages.

These batteries are designed to be maintenance-free, thanks to their sealed construction, which prevents leakage and reduces the need for regular upkeep. This makes them a convenient choice for various settings, including those with limited access or harsh conditions.

Elios SLA batteries perform reasonably well in cold weather, though they do experience a reduction in capacity, similar to other lead-acid batteries. They typically lose about 20% of their capacity in normal cold conditions and may see more significant drops in very low temperatures. Despite this, they remain functional and reliable for many off-grid and backup power applications.

A key benefit of Elios sealed lead acid batteries is their durability and robustness. They are designed to handle a range of environmental conditions and can offer dependable performance even in less-than-ideal situations. Their sealed design also contributes to enhanced safety and reduced risk of spills or leaks.

While they may not offer the same cold-weather efficiency as lithium alternatives, Elios sealed lead acid batteries provide a cost-effective and reliable solution for those needing a maintenance-free, rugged battery option in various settings, including colder climates.

Conclusion

Winter is almost approaching, and it's time to ensure that your RV, Van or battery banks in your off-grid house are also ready and equipped for the snowy days. 

If you are looking for new batteries or replacements for your current batteries, which can perform well in any weather, we strongly suggest Lithium batteries or Elios Sealed Acid Batteries. Our experts in Volts Energies in Canada are more than happy to answer if you have any further questions.