Topping Off Camera Batteries: Is It Safe?

It is a common misconception that turning a camera on and off will preserve battery life. In fact, doing so may use more power than leaving the camera on, as the camera runs a start-up sequence and powers up the operating system each time it is turned on. This initial inrush of power can also cause more wear and tear on the internal electronics and physical switches.

Most modern cameras are designed to go into a power-saving mode when not in use, so you can leave the camera on without draining the battery too much. However, if you are not going to use the camera for a long time, it is best to remove the battery and store the camera in a cool, dry place.

Leaving batteries in cameras for a week or two is fine

Lithium batteries, like those used in most DSLRs, hold their charge well and won't drain too much while sitting idle. But if you're leaving your camera unused for six months to a year, it's recommended to remove the batteries and store them separately at a little under half charge. This will ensure they last longer and reduce the risk of any damage to your camera.

Some cameras have electronics that constantly draw power, so it's a good idea to check your camera's manual for specific advice. Additionally, if you're in a humid environment, it's best to take the batteries out if you're not using the camera for a couple of weeks, as humidity can cause condensation and damage your equipment.

In summary, while leaving batteries in your camera for a week or two won't cause any harm, for longer periods of storage, it's best to remove them and store them safely to maintain their longevity and prevent any potential issues with your camera.

Lithium batteries last longest at around 40% charge

Yes, it is true that lithium batteries last longest when used between 20% and 60% or 80% charge. This is because the smaller the discharge (low DoD), the longer the battery will last. However, it is not necessary to fully charge the battery every now and then. Partial discharge on Li-ion is fine, and there is no memory effect, so the battery does not need periodic full discharge cycles to prolong life.

Batteries should be stored in a cool, dry place

It is also important to note that storing batteries in the freezer is not recommended, as this can cause condensation and erode batteries over time. Instead, batteries should be stored at room temperature or slightly cooler, in a climate-controlled environment without heat fluctuations.

Additionally, batteries should be kept away from direct sunlight or heat sources, as this can cause the battery fluid to evaporate, leading to battery failure.

By storing batteries in a cool, dry place, you can also prevent the battery from leaking or causing hazards. This is because moisture can damage batteries, and extreme temperatures can cause them to rupture or leak.

Batteries should be fully charged and discharged three times to reach optimum charge capacity

Yes, it is safe to leave your camera's batteries in for an extended period of time. As long as the camera is completely off, and the battery is not flat.

A word of caution: You can bet that the advice in the 1000D manual is predicated on the assumption that you're using a genuine Canon battery. Canon currently has a campaign on its web site against counterfeit batteries (and other accessories). Not all aftermarket batteries are "counterfeit" -- there are a number of manufacturers that label their batteries with their own name. Nevertheless, be careful about the quality of batteries that you buy.

Batteries should be kept between 57-77 degrees Fahrenheit

Batteries are best stored at temperatures between 57-77 degrees Fahrenheit (15-25 degrees Celsius). This is the ideal temperature range for most batteries, including lithium-ion batteries.

Storing batteries at temperatures outside of this range can permanently damage their capacity. For example, a battery stored at 104°F (40°C) for a year will only retain 85% of its original capacity, while a battery stored at 77°F (25°C) will retain 96% of its capacity.

It is also important to store batteries at the optimum charge level of 40%. Storing lithium-ion batteries fully charged accelerates the loss of capacity. A fully charged battery stored at 104°F (40°C) will lose 35% of its capacity in only three months.

Cold temperatures can also affect battery performance. Temperatures at or close to 32°F (0°C) cause a slowdown in the chemical reactions inside the cell, resulting in a loss of battery capacity. This can cause cell reversal, which is a common cause of failure in cordless power tools.

Therefore, it is best to store batteries in a safe, temperature-controlled space, especially during the winter months.

Frequently asked questions