Yes, a NOCO charger can help revive a drone’s LiPo battery in certain situations, but it depends on the battery’s condition and the charger model used. LiPo (Lithium Polymer) batteries are popular for drones due to their high energy density, but they’re also sensitive to improper charging or storage, which can lead to a “dead” or deeply discharged battery.
NOCO chargers, especially models with smart charging capabilities, offer recovery modes that can sometimes bring a seemingly dead LiPo battery back to life by slowly and safely restoring voltage.
However, it’s important to understand that not all LiPo batteries can be revived, especially if they’re physically damaged or have suffered irreversible chemical degradation. Reviving a battery also requires caution—wrong charging can lead to safety hazards like swelling or fire.
If you’re a drone enthusiast or professional, knowing when and how to use a NOCO charger for LiPo battery recovery can save you money and extend your drone’s flying time.
Best NOCO Chargers for Reviving LiPo Batteries
When it comes to bringing your drone’s LiPo battery back to life, not all NOCO chargers are created equal. Here are the top three NOCO chargers best suited for LiPo battery recovery, along with why they stand out:
NOCO Genius 1, 1-Amp Fully-Automatic Smart Charger
This compact charger is perfect for smaller LiPo batteries like those in drones. It features a smart recovery mode that can revive deeply discharged batteries safely, making it ideal for hobbyists who want an affordable yet reliable solution.
NOCO Genius 2, 2-Amp Smart Battery Charger
With twice the amperage of the Genius 1, the Genius 2 offers faster recovery for larger or multiple LiPo batteries. Its versatile smart charging technology ensures your battery is charged correctly without overcharging, prolonging battery life.
NOCO Genius 5, 5-Amp Smart Battery Charger
The Genius 5 is a powerful, versatile charger that can handle larger LiPo batteries and supports a broad range of battery types. Its advanced diagnostics and repair modes make it suitable for enthusiasts and pros looking to get the most from their drone batteries.
How LiPo Batteries Work and Why They Fail
Understanding how LiPo batteries function is key to knowing why they sometimes need reviving — and whether a NOCO charger can help.
What Makes LiPo Batteries Special?
- LiPo stands for Lithium Polymer, a type of rechargeable battery popular in drones due to its lightweight design and high energy capacity.
- Inside, these batteries use a polymer electrolyte, which allows them to be thin and flexible compared to traditional lithium-ion batteries.
- This design provides excellent power output for their size, making drones fly longer and perform better.
Why Do LiPo Batteries Fail?
LiPo batteries are delicate and can fail or degrade for several reasons:
- Over-discharging: Draining the battery below the manufacturer’s recommended voltage causes irreversible damage.
- Improper charging: Using the wrong charger or charging at high currents can lead to overheating or imbalance between cells.
- Physical damage: Punctures, swelling, or impacts can permanently harm battery cells.
- Age and cycles: Repeated charge and discharge cycles naturally reduce battery capacity over time.
- Storage neglect: Leaving batteries fully discharged or fully charged for extended periods without proper storage can degrade them.
What Happens When a Battery “Dies”?
- A battery may appear dead because its voltage has dropped too low for the drone or charger to recognize it as valid.
- Chemically, the internal layers can degrade or become unstable, risking safety and performance.
How NOCO Chargers Work on LiPo Batteries
NOCO chargers are designed with smart charging technology that can safely charge and, in some cases, revive LiPo batteries that are deeply discharged or undervolted.
Smart Recovery Mode
- Many NOCO chargers, such as the Genius 1, 2, and 5, include a “Recovery Mode” or “Desulfation Mode.”
- This mode works by applying a very low current to the battery initially, gently increasing the voltage over time.
- The slow charge helps to safely raise the battery’s voltage without causing damage from sudden power surges.
- The charger also monitors the battery continuously, adjusting the current and voltage to optimize charging.
Why Is This Important for LiPo Batteries?
- LiPo batteries that have dropped below a safe voltage threshold can be “revived” by restoring voltage gradually, which can bring them back to usable levels.
- This process helps reverse minor chemical imbalances that occur when the battery is over-discharged.
- If the charger detects serious faults like short circuits or excessive internal resistance, it will stop the process to prevent hazards.
Additional Features That Aid Recovery
- Temperature sensors to avoid overheating.
- Automatic shutoff when charging is complete to prevent overcharging.
- Compatibility with multiple battery chemistries, including LiPo.
What NOCO Chargers Don’t Do
- NOCO chargers cannot fix physically damaged batteries or those with irreparable cell degradation.
- They aren’t a guaranteed fix, but they provide a safer and more controlled way to attempt recovery compared to traditional chargers.
This intelligent approach makes NOCO chargers a smart choice for drone enthusiasts hoping to extend the life of their LiPo batteries safely.
Step-by-Step Guide to Reviving a LiPo Battery with a NOCO Charger
If you have a LiPo battery that won’t charge normally or seems “dead,” here’s how to safely try reviving it with a NOCO charger:
Step 1: Inspect the Battery
- Check the battery for any visible signs of damage such as swelling, punctures, or leakage.
- If you notice any of these, do not attempt to charge or revive the battery — it’s unsafe.
Step 2: Ensure Compatibility
- Confirm your NOCO charger supports LiPo batteries and has a recovery or repair mode.
- The NOCO Genius 1, 2, and 5 models all have suitable recovery functions.
Step 3: Connect the Battery to the Charger
- Attach the battery connectors to the charger carefully, ensuring correct polarity (positive to positive, negative to negative).
- Use any balance lead connectors if your charger supports balance charging, as this improves safety and effectiveness.
Step 4: Select the Recovery Mode
- Power on the charger and select the recovery or repair mode according to the charger’s manual.
- This mode will apply a slow, controlled charge to the battery.
Step 5: Monitor the Charging Process
- Keep an eye on the battery and charger during the entire process.
- The charger will gradually raise the battery voltage.
- If the battery warms excessively or shows signs of swelling, stop charging immediately.
Step 6: Complete the Charge
- Once the battery reaches a safe voltage level, the charger will automatically switch to full charge mode to bring the battery to 100%.
- When charging is complete, disconnect the battery and let it rest before use.
Step 7: Test the Battery
- After charging, test the battery with your drone or a battery tester to confirm it holds charge and delivers power properly.
- If it still underperforms, replacement might be necessary.
Safety Tips for Charging and Reviving LiPo Batteries
Safety should always be your top priority when working with LiPo batteries and NOCO chargers. These batteries can be volatile if mishandled, so follow these tips to protect yourself and your equipment:
Always Charge in a Fireproof Container
- Use a LiPo-safe charging bag or a metal container to contain any potential fires or explosions.
- Never leave charging batteries unattended.
Inspect Batteries Before Charging
- Look for swelling, punctures, leaks, or unusual odors.
- Do not attempt to charge damaged or swollen batteries as they pose significant risks.
Use the Correct Charger and Settings
- Only use chargers compatible with LiPo chemistry.
- Select the appropriate mode (recovery, balance charge) as per your NOCO charger’s manual.
Charge at Recommended Current Levels
- Charging at too high a current can cause overheating and battery damage.
- Follow the manufacturer’s recommended charge rate, usually 1C (the battery’s capacity in amps).
Charge in a Safe Location
- Keep batteries away from flammable materials and in well-ventilated areas.
- Avoid charging on carpets, sofas, or wood surfaces.
Monitor Temperature and Battery Behavior
- If the battery gets hot or starts swelling during charging, immediately stop the process.
- Never attempt to revive a battery that shows unsafe signs.
Store Batteries Properly
- If you’re not using your LiPo battery for a while, store it at about 50% charge in a cool, dry place.
- Use the charger’s storage mode if available.
Dispose of Batteries Safely
- When a LiPo battery can no longer hold a charge or is damaged, dispose of it at an approved recycling center.
- Never throw LiPo batteries in the trash.
When to Replace Your Drone’s LiPo Battery Instead of Trying to Revive It
Knowing when to stop trying to revive a LiPo battery and opt for a replacement is just as important as attempting recovery. Using a compromised battery can be unsafe and may damage your drone.
Signs It’s Time to Replace Your Battery
- Swelling or Puffing: A battery that bulges or swells is a clear indicator of internal damage and potential safety hazards.
- Consistent Voltage Drop: If your battery quickly loses charge or fails to hold voltage despite attempts to revive it, it’s likely degraded beyond repair.
- Physical Damage: Any punctures, tears, or corrosion on the battery casing mean it should be replaced immediately.
- Overheating: Batteries that get unusually hot during charging or flight are unsafe to continue using.
- Age and Cycle Count: Most LiPo batteries have a lifespan of around 300-500 charge cycles. If your battery has surpassed this, replacement is advisable.
Why You Shouldn’t Take Risks
- A damaged or degraded LiPo battery can cause fires, explosions, or damage your drone’s electronics.
- Attempting to revive a seriously compromised battery wastes time and poses safety risks.
Choosing a New Battery
- Buy a high-quality, drone-specific LiPo battery from a reputable manufacturer.
- Match the battery’s voltage, capacity, and discharge rate to your drone’s specifications.
- Consider batteries with built-in safety features such as voltage monitoring or balance leads.
Conclusion
A NOCO charger can often revive a drone’s LiPo battery if the battery is not physically damaged and has simply dropped below a safe voltage level. NOCO’s smart recovery modes provide a controlled, safe way to bring undervolted batteries back to life, extending their usable lifespan.
However, it’s vital to always prioritize safety by inspecting your battery carefully and following proper charging procedures. Remember, if your battery shows signs of swelling, damage, or severe degradation, replacement is the safest and smartest choice.
Using a quality NOCO charger like the Genius 1, 2, or 5 can be a valuable tool in your drone maintenance kit, helping you get more flight time without unnecessary costs. Always pair recovery attempts with good safety practices and proper battery care to protect your investment and enjoy safe flying experiences.
Frequently Asked Questions About Reviving a Drone’s LiPo Battery with a NOCO Charger
Can a NOCO charger fix any dead LiPo battery?
NOCO chargers can help revive LiPo batteries that have simply dropped below their safe voltage threshold due to deep discharge. However, they cannot fix physically damaged batteries, swollen cells, or batteries with internal shorts. Always inspect your battery before attempting recovery.
How long does the recovery process take with a NOCO charger?
The recovery process varies depending on the battery’s condition and capacity. It can take anywhere from 30 minutes to several hours as the charger applies a slow, controlled charge to safely bring voltage back to normal levels.
Is it safe to leave a LiPo battery charging unattended on a NOCO charger?
No, it’s not recommended to leave LiPo batteries unattended during charging, especially when using recovery mode. LiPo batteries can pose fire risks if they swell or overheat, so always monitor charging closely and use fireproof containers.
Which NOCO charger models support LiPo battery recovery?
The NOCO Genius 1, Genius 2, and Genius 5 are popular models that support recovery and repair modes suitable for LiPo batteries. Always confirm your specific charger’s capabilities in the user manual.
What should I do if my LiPo battery won’t revive after using a NOCO charger?
If your battery shows no improvement after multiple recovery attempts, or if it swells, heats excessively, or doesn’t hold charge, it’s best to replace it. Continuing to use a compromised battery is unsafe and can damage your drone.
Can NOCO chargers balance charge LiPo batteries?
Most NOCO chargers are designed to charge 12V or 24V batteries and may not have balance charging for multi-cell LiPo packs. For precise balancing, consider using a charger specifically designed for LiPo balance charging.