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

If you’re trying to keep LiHV packs healthy for the long run, this page is really about three things: charging to the right voltage, storing at the right voltage, and not pushing cells too low under load.

If you’re still deciding whether LiHV is worth it vs standard LiPo, you can compare them here: RC Battery Chemistry Explained (Choose by Use Case). And if you specifically want LiHV vs LiPo, start here: LiPo vs LiHV Batteries.

Quick Answer (LiHV Voltage Numbers You Actually Need)

• Max charge voltage (LiHV mode): 4.35V per cell
• Storage voltage: about 3.80–3.85V per cell
• “Time to stop” (real world): don’t live below ~3.5V per cell under load, and aim to end around ~3.6–3.7V per cell at rest

LiHV Storage Voltage Cheat Sheet (2S / 3S / 4S / 6S)

Rule: total storage voltage ≈ 3.8V × cell count. Use this as a fast sanity check when you’re setting storage mode.

What Is LiHV (And Why It’s Not Just “LiPo With a New Name”)

LiHV is essentially a high-voltage LiPo chemistry designed to charge to 4.35V per cell instead of the standard 4.20V per cell. That small difference can feel noticeable in punchy RC setups, but only when you charge it correctly and keep your habits clean.

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

• Use the correct mode: select LiHV chemistry on your charger (max 4.35V/cell).
• Start at 1C or below: 1C = capacity(mAh) ÷ 1000. Example: 500mAh → 0.5A; 850mAh → 0.85A; 5200mAh → 5.2A.
• Balance charge whenever possible: keep the balance lead connected so cells finish evenly.
• Temperature matters: if the pack gets warm during charge, slow down. Cooler charging usually means better cycle life.

Need a charger that supports LiHV mode and balanced charging? CNHL LiPo & LiHV Battery Chargers.

LiHV Storage Voltage (3.8V per Cell Guide)

If you’re not using the pack soon, don’t leave it full. Set it to ~3.80–3.85V per cell using your charger’s storage function.

• Already above storage? run a storage discharge.
• Already below storage? run a storage charge.
• Let packs cool first: charge/drive/fly, cool down, then storage. Heat plus high voltage is what accelerates aging.

LiHV Minimum Voltage (Under Load vs At Rest)

Here’s the part that confuses people: voltage sags under load and rebounds when you stop. That’s why “minimum voltage” depends on whether you mean during the run or after the run.

• During the run (under load): try not to hang around below ~3.5V/cell under load.
• After the run (at rest): ending around ~3.6–3.7V/cell at rest is a practical, battery-friendly finish.
• Hard floor (health perspective): repeatedly pushing near ~3.3V/cell accelerates degradation quickly.

LiHV vs LiPo: The Practical Difference

• Charge voltage: LiHV 4.35V/cell vs LiPo 4.20V/cell
• Feel: LiHV can feel a bit more “awake” if your setup benefits from that extra headroom
• Reality check: if your charger isn’t in LiHV mode, you’re basically using it like a normal LiPo

FAQ: LiHV Storage Voltage, Charge Voltage & Safety

Can I charge a LiHV battery in LiPo mode?

Yes. It will stop at 4.20V/cell, which is safer if you’re unsure, but you won’t use the full LiHV capacity. If the pack is labeled LiHV and your charger supports it, use LiHV mode (4.35V/cell).

What is LiHV storage voltage?

A practical target is 3.80–3.85V per cell. Store in a cool, dry, fire-safe place and avoid leaving packs fully charged.

What is the LiHV charge voltage per cell?

4.35V per cell in LiHV mode.

What is a safe LiHV minimum voltage?

Because voltage sags under load, focus on habits: avoid living below ~3.5V/cell under load, and try to finish around ~3.6–3.7V/cell at rest. Repeatedly pushing near ~3.3V/cell tends to shorten pack life quickly.

Do I need a special LiHV charger?

You need a charger that supports LiHV chemistry mode and balanced charging. Start here: LiPo & LiHV Battery Chargers.

Explore CNHL LiHV Batteries

If you want high-voltage packs built for RC use, browse here: CNHL High Voltage (LiHV) Battery Collection.