How long a battery keeps its charge and capacity in storage depends mostly on temperature and state of charge. Storage is not free: the battery continues to age while it sits on the shelf.
What Is the Recommended Storage Temperature Range for Batteries?
Recommended Conditions
Lithium batteries are best stored in a cool, dry place, typically near controlled room temperature and at a partial state of charge rather than fully empty or fully topped up. Heat is the main enemy: every sustained rise in temperature accelerates calendar aging and self-discharge.
What to Avoid
Avoid leaving batteries in a hot car, near heaters or in direct sunlight for long periods. Extremely low temperatures slow the chemistry but do not damage a properly stored cell; the bigger long-term risk is heat. If stored for months, check the state of charge periodically and top up to the recommended level.
Good storage practice — cool, dry, partial charge and periodic topping up — keeps capacity fade to a minimum. For stocked inventory, rotate stock by date and follow the same storage guidance. Recommended ranges can vary by chemistry and are subject to project evaluation.