LiPo batteries provide the necessary power for your RC. However, not knowing the proper amperage to charge LiPo batteries can lead to hazardous situations.
So, what Amp to charge LiPo?
The charging Amp of LiPo should be determined by the 1C rate. This means that the 1000 mAh battery’s charging amperage is 1 Amp. However, with each cell count, the charging amperage differs. For example, the 1 Amp charging rate is ideal for 1S LiPo. Whereas, 2 Amp charging is ideal for 2S LiPo.
Even though the information is useful, it isn’t enough. You need to dig deeper for a more complete understanding.
So, let’s move on.
Ideal Amps to Charge LiPo Batteries
| Battery (LiPo) | Ideal Charging Rate | Cell Count |
| 1S | 1C | 1 |
| 2S | 1C | 2 |
| 3S | 1C | 3 |
| 4S | 1C | 4 |
| 5S | 1C | 5 |
The charge rate for any LiPo battery is 1C. It means that the charging amperage will be a fraction of the battery capacity. This is applicable to all LiPo batteries.
You might be thinking, how many Amps to charge 2200mAh LiPo?
The ideal amps to charge 2200mAh LiPo is 2.2 Amps. Nevertheless, with LiPo battery cell counts, the charging amps can vary. You can charge a 2S 2200mAh battery for 4.4 Amps. Regardless of that, the ideal charging rate for each cell is 1C.
It is merely a drop in the vast ocean of LiPo batteries with different features. LiPo batteries can come in different cells. Those cell counts are referred to as S. Also, knowing the NiMH battery charging amperage is very important.
So, does the battery cell count differ from the charging amperage? The following things can help you to understand that properly.
Source: amazon.com
1S LiPo Batteries:
1S LiPo battery cell count is 1. Hence, the ideal charge rate for this LiPo battery is 1C. It means, that for a 3000 mAh battery the charge rate should be 3 Amps. However, the minimum charging input should be 1 Amp.
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2S LiPo Batteries:
The minimum charging input for 2S LiPo batteries should be 2 Amps. However, it doesn’t apply to the batteries under 2000 mAh. You need to charge a 1500 mAh battery at 1.5 amperages.
If you are planning to buy a 2S LiPo battery, then my recommendations are given below.
I use Zeee 7.4V Lipo Battery 2S for the 50C discharge rate. It supplies enough electricity to run my Traxxas Slash VXL perfectly.
Another LiPo battery with a 50C discharge rate is Ovonic 2s Lipo Battery. This 5200 mAh battery can run for a long time.
For more battery capacity and discharge rate, go with HOOVO 2S Lipo Battery. It can significantly enhance the performance by supplying more current.
3S LiPo Batteries:
For 3S LiPo batteries, 3 Amps is required to charge. However, it is applicable for batteries under 3000 mAh. You can charge a 4000 mAh 3S LiPo battery for 3 Amps safely. But, charging it with 4 Amps will take less time than the 3 Amps.
Some of the best 3S LiPo batteries are listed below.
For a standard battery time, you can go for Zeee 1500mAh 3S RC Lipo Battery.
The 2500 mAh battery of Ovonic 3S Lipo Battery will give much more runtime.
For even longer runtime, go for Zeee 3S RC Lipo Battery. It is a 5200 mAh battery with a 50C discharge rate.
The battery size of Traxxas Revo and many other RC cars are this 3S LiPo battery. See the wonderful performance of an RC packed with a 3S LiPo battery.
4S LiPo Batteries:
Now, what Amp to charge 4S LiPo? The 4S LiPo battery can be charged at 4 Amps. Yet, under 4000 mAh capacity, you shouldn’t charge it at 4 Amps.
Using a LiPo balance charger you can set the ideal charging rate. Nevertheless, some of the best 4S LiPo batteries are recommended below.
Fast charging capability RC LiPo battery is CNHL 4S Lipo Battery.
A more battery power storage comes with Zeee 4S Lipo Battery.
For even more battery capacity with a high discharge rate, go for Youme 4S LiPo battery.
5S LiPo Batteries:
Lastly, for a 5S battery, the charging rate can be 5 amps. However, it is advised to charge with less Amperage for batteries under 5000 mAh capacity.
Source: rchelicopterfun.com
That’s all regarding the charging amperage of each RC LiPo battery. You should follow the dos and don’ts for LiPo batteries. That way avoiding risk factors will be possible.
But, what will happen if you charge batteries without recommended amperage? Let’s find the answer in the next section.
Issues with Charging a LiPo Battery Without Recommended Amperage
If you charge a LiPo battery without recommended amperage, then many issues can arise.
Your charger can get swelled. You may not notice this at first. But, it hinders the performance greatly. Also, if left unnoticed and unfixed, it can cause hazards. Battery getting burst or burnt is one of the prime examples.
Undercharging the battery can cause it to lose its proper power supply. As a result, the brushless motor won’t get enough current to function properly.
Overpowered charging can cause a heating issue. This can lead to your RC battery catching on fire. You should avoid this at any cause.
So, you should always use the ideal amperage while charging an RC battery. Remember to use 1C rate charging for your RC cars.
Source: thedronegirl.com
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How Long do Traxxas Stampede RC Cars Take to Fully Charged?
The Traxxas Stampede RC cars take 45 minutes to be fully charged. It has the typical Traxxas 3000mAh 8.4V NiMH battery. However, changing the battery might take longer or smaller to fully charge It depends on LiPo cell count and battery capacity. Keep in mind to choose a compatible battery.
Should You Use a Ballooned or Swelled LiPo Battery for RC?
No, never use a ballooned or swelled LiPo battery for RC. It can cause severe damage not only to the RC car but also to your health. It can radiate toxic radiation particales. Furthermore, charging or discharging it can cause it to blast. In some cases, it can catch fire, which is very dangerous.
Do You Need to Completely Discharge a LiPo Battery Before Charging?
No, you don’t need to completely discharge a LiPo battery before charging. LiPo batteries don’t have voltage depression habits like NiCd batteries. However, if you mishandle the battery, it can get swelled. In some cases, it blasts without any precaution. So, take good care of your LiPo batteries.
