Yes, lithium batteries do drain when not in use, thanks to self-discharge. The rate of self-discharge depends on the battery’s quality, age, and storage conditions. On average, lithium batteries lose about 2-3% of their charge per month when stored properly.
It’s worth noting that even if you don’t use your lithium-ion battery at all, it will still gradually lose its capacity over time due to self-discharge. This means that even when stored properly, unused batteries will eventually reach a point where they cannot hold enough charge for practical use.
Lithium-ion batteries can lose their charge over time, even when they are not being used. This is called self-discharge, and it can happen even if the battery is not connected to anything. The rate of self-discharge depends on the battery’s temperature and the age of the battery.
First, try to store them in a cool, dry place out of direct sunlight. And second, if possible, charge them up to about 50% before storing them for long periods of time. This will help slow down the degradation process and keep your batteries working better for longer.
For best results, keep the lithium-ion batteries at a relative humidity of about 50%. If the lithium or lithium-ion battery is exposed to n high-moisture environments, it will lead to the reduced performance and reduced lifespan of lithium-ion batteries. If possible, refrigerate the battery in a dry environment to extend the battery life.
Lithium-ion batteries unavoidably degrade over time, beginning from the very first charge and continuing thereafter. However, while lithium-ion battery degradation is unavoidable, it is not unalterable. Rather, the rate at which lithium-ion batteries degrade during each cycle can vary significantly depending on the operating conditions.