How to Charge and Store LiHV Batteries (Storage Voltage & Charging Guide)

If you’ve ever wondered how to keep your LiHV packs healthy for the long run, this guide covers charging, storage voltage, and the key differences vs. LiPo—with clear, real-world numbers.

How to Charge LiHV Batteries (1C Rate & 4.35V Explained)

Always connect the charge lead to the charger first, then connect the battery. Avoid unplugging the charge lead while the pack is still attached.

• Charge mode: Use LiHV mode (max 4.35V per cell). A modern smart charger will show the mode clearly. You can explore compatible smart chargers here: CNHL LiPo & LiHV Battery Chargers.
• Charge rate： Start with ≤ 1C. 1C = capacity(mAh) ÷ 1000.
  Examples: 500mAh → 0.5A；850mAh → 0.85A；5200mAh → 5.2A.
• Balance charging： Keep the balance lead connected so each cell finishes at the same voltage.
• Thermal care： If the pack feels warm, reduce current. Cooler charging generally yields more cycles.

LiHV Storage Voltage (3.8V per Cell Guide)

When you won’t fly/drive again soon, set the pack to ~3.80V per cell (aka storage voltage) using the charger’s storage function. Let the battery cool before storage and keep it in a dry, fire-safe place.

• Per-cell target： 3.80–3.85V is a practical window.
• Multi-cell examples： 2S ≈ 7.6V；3S ≈ 11.4V；4S ≈ 15.2V；6S ≈ 22.8V。
• Already below 3.8V？ Run a storage charge to bring it up. Already above? Run storage discharge.
• Don’t store fully charged： Keeping packs at 4.35V/cell accelerates aging.

In-Flight Discharge & Landing Voltage

Voltage sags under load and rebounds at rest. To protect pack health:

• Recommended landing： Aim to land around 3.6–3.7V per cell (at rest).
• Do not go below： Avoid dropping under 3.5V per cell in normal use; ~3.3V per cell is a hard floor that accelerates degradation.
• After the run： Let the pack cool, then set storage if you won’t use it again that day.

LiHV vs LiPo – What’s the Real Difference?

• Voltage： LiHV tops out at 4.35V/cell vs LiPo’s 4.20V/cell → more headroom, punchier feel.
• Energy density： LiHV typically offers slightly higher energy density for comparable size/weight.
• Compatibility： Most setups that accept LiPo also accept LiHV—verify ESC/charger support and use the correct mode.
• Use cases： FPV racing, acro, and performance-oriented RC benefit most from the extra voltage.

FAQ: LiHV Voltage, Minimum Voltage & Safety Tips

Q1. Can I charge a LiHV pack using normal LiPo mode?
A: Yes, but it will stop at 4.20V/cell and you won’t use the full LiHV potential. For maximum capacity/performance, use LiHV mode (4.35V/cell).

Q2. What is the ideal storage voltage for a 6S LiHV?
A: About 22.8V total (≈3.8V × 6). In general: total storage voltage ≈ 3.8V × cell count.

Q3. What’s a safe minimum after each flight?
A: Land around 3.6–3.7V per cell (at rest). Avoid <3.5V per cell in normal use and avoid prolonged operation near ~3.3V.

Q4. Do I need to fully charge a new LiHV before putting it into storage?
A: No. You can directly set it to storage voltage (~3.8V/cell) and leave it there.

Q5. How long can a LiHV stay at full charge?
A: Keep full charge windows short (ideally <24 hours). For longer gaps, return to storage voltage.

Q6. What charger settings should I check?
A: Confirm LiHV chemistry mode, moderate current (≤1C), balance lead connected, and temperature kept under control.

Explore CNHL LiHV Batteries

Looking for proven high-voltage packs? Browse our dedicated selection here: CNHL High Voltage (LiHV) Battery Collection.