Charging & Care

Cold-Weather Charging for Lithium Golf Carts

lithium golf cart charging in winter
07
Oct

Cold-Weather Charging for Lithium Golf Carts: Temperatures, Settings & Storage

Cold weather changes how lithium batteries behave. Charge acceptance slows down, range dips temporarily, and some chargers or BMS protections won’t engage until temperatures are safe. This guide shows you the safe temperature ranges, best-practice settings, and seasonal storage steps to keep your cart healthy all winter. For distance planning, see our golf cart range guide and use the Golf Cart Distance Calculator.

Quick takeaways

  • Charging window: Most lithium batteries prefer charging at roughly 32–113°F (0–45°C); below freezing, many BMSs limit or block charge current.
  • Warm first, then charge: If the pack is cold-soaked, bring it above freezing before bulk charging (heated space, pack heater, or let it warm indoors).
  • Storage target: Park at 40–60% state of charge (SOC) for multi-week storage and top up monthly if needed.
  • Use the right charger/profile: An approved lithium charger and correct profile (36/48/72V) prevents under/overcharge in the cold.

Why Cold Affects Lithium Batteries

  • Lower chemical activity: In low temps, lithium-ion internal resistance rises, so charging is slower and regen/acceptance is reduced.
  • BMS protections: Many Battery Management Systems intentionally block or limit charge below freezing to protect the cells.
  • Temporary range dip: Cold impacts discharge, too—expect fewer miles per charge until temps normalize.

Safe Temperature Ranges

  • Charging: Ideal ~50–86°F (10–30°C). Acceptable ~32–113°F (0–45°C) if the BMS allows it.
  • Discharging (driving): Typically safe down to well below freezing, but expect performance/range to drop as it gets colder.
  • Storage: Cool, dry environment is best. Avoid prolonged subfreezing storage without top-ups.

Tip: If your charger “won’t start” on a cold morning, the BMS may be holding charge off. Warm the pack above 32°F (0°C) and try again.

Cold-Weather Charging Best Practices

  • Warm the pack first: Move the cart/pack indoors, use a battery heater if equipped, or let ambient warmth raise the pack above freezing.
  • Use an approved lithium charger: Match voltage (36/48/72V) and use the manufacturer’s lithium profile—see our best practices for charging golf cart batteries.
  • Avoid topping at extreme cold: If you must charge near 32°F, keep current modest and allow extra time; resume normal charging once the pack is warmer.
  • Don’t store at 0% or 100%: For off-days, finish near 60–80% SOC. For multi-week storage, park at 40–60% SOC.
  • Check connections & tires: Clean, tight lugs and proper tire pressure reduce winter inefficiency.

Seasonal Storage Settings (30/60/90 Days)

  • Before storage: Charge to ~40–60% SOC. Power down accessories; verify charger is disconnected (no float/trickle needed for lithium).
  • Monthly check: If the cart sits in the cold, check SOC monthly and top to ~60% if it drifted lower.
  • Wake-up procedure: Bring the cart into a moderate environment, let the pack warm, then charge to your normal target before first winter ride.

Charger Profiles & Compatibility

  • Correct voltage profile: Ensure the charger matches system voltage and lithium chemistry; disable equalize/float intended for lead-acid.
  • Observe charge current: In the cold, lower current can be safer; follow your pack’s recommended winter charge rate.
  • Cables & AC supply: Cold-stiffened cables and weak outlets cause nuisance faults—verify tight, clean connections and a solid AC source.

Pre-Ride & Post-Ride Cold-Weather Checklist

  • Pre-ride: Warm the pack if cold-soaked; check tires; confirm SOC; start gently to reduce voltage sag.
  • During ride: Favor steady speeds; avoid long hill climbs if you’re near empty; limit heavy accessory use.
  • Post-ride: Park in a warmer area; let the pack equilibrate; then charge to your target SOC (don’t store at 0%).

Troubleshooting in the Cold (Quick Wins)

  • Charger won’t start: BMS low-temp protection likely active—warm the pack, verify AC, and restart.
  • Cart shuts off or sags: Cold increases resistance; drive gently until the pack warms; avoid deep discharges.
  • Short range day-to-day: Normal in winter. Plan shorter routes or a mid-day top-up; verify tires and weight. For distance planning, see our golf cart range guide.

Warranty Note (Bolt Energy USA)

Bolt Energy USA provides a 10-year limited warranty on its lithium packs. For winter use, follow the recommended charging temperatures, approved chargers, and storage SOC to stay within guidelines. Review the full policy here: 10-year limited warranty

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