How do you revive a dead 18650 battery? 5 effective methods that can help
When your go-to device or tool fails to turn on due to a dead 18650 battery, you might wonder if there are any ways to bring it back to life. The good news is that it is possible to revive a dead 18650 battery in some cases, provided you follow the proper methods. In this article, we will explore some of the most effective methods for reviving a dead 18650 battery in a detailed and comprehensive manner.
How do you revive a dead 18650 battery?
Reviving a dead 18650 battery requires a multimeter to test it and ensure it is dead. The next step is to discharge the battery entirely and connect it to a low-voltage device, such as an LED light, until no power remains. Finally, the battery can be charged with a charger designed for 18650 batteries, and the multimeter is used to test its voltage and ensure it is working correctly.
5 effective methods to revive a dead 18650 battery
Method 1: Checking the Voltage
The first step to reviving a dead 18650 battery is to determine if it’s worth the effort by checking its voltage. Using a multimeter, available at most hardware stores, you can measure the battery’s voltage. If the voltage is below 2.5V, the battery will likely die beyond recovery. However, if the voltage reads above 2.5V, there may still be some hope.
Method 2: Charging the Battery
The next step is to attempt to charge the battery. You can use a battery charger specifically designed for 18650 batteries or a universal charger that works with various battery types. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for your particular charger.
Method 3: Using a Power Bank
You can use a power bank to charge the battery if you don’t have a battery charger. Connect the battery to the power bank using a USB cable and let it charge for several hours. Be mindful of the battery’s temperature, as overheating can damage the battery.
Method 4: Reviving the Battery with a LiPo Charger
If the above methods do not work, a LiPo (lithium-polymer) charger could be the solution. While primarily designed for RC (remote control) batteries, You can also use LiPo chargers with 18650 batteries. Choose a charger with a low charging rate to avoid damaging the battery.
Method 5: Discharging and Recharging the Battery
If the battery still fails to hold a charge, a final method to try is discharging and recharging it. To do this:
- Connect the battery to a device or tool that will completely drain the battery.
- After fully discharging it, recharge it using any of the methods mentioned earlier.
- Repeat this process multiple times to see if the battery can hold a charge.
In Conclusion
While reviving a dead 18650 battery can be challenging, it is sometimes possible. Before recharging a battery, check its voltage to determine if it’s worth the effort. If the voltage exceeds 2.5V, you can charge the battery using a battery charger, power bank, or LiPo charger. If those methods do not work, you can try discharging and recharging the battery. With persistence and patience, you can revive your dead 18650 battery and restore it to its former glory.
