The 100 year battery life debacle. . .

The 100 year battery life debacle. . .

You’ve probably seen bold claims like “6000 cycles!” or “8000 cycles!” plastered on ads, making it sound like these batteries will last forever. But for RV, motorhome, or off-grid use, those numbers don’t tell the full story. Here’s what you need to know.

1. Cycles Aren’t Everything

If you’re only completing a full cycle once or twice per week (made up of micro cycles) - pretty typical for RV or off-grid setups - 6000 cycles could theoretically last over 50 years. But in reality, your battery’s lifespan isn’t determined by cycles alone.

2. Time Takes Its Toll

LFP batteries degrade just sitting there, even if you barely use them. This is called calendar aging, and it’s a bigger factor than how many times you cycle your battery. Data shows a Tier 1 modern LFP battery stored at 25°C and a retained 50% SOC will drop to around 80% SOH in about 20 years, no cycling degradation attributed. Keep it at 90% ish SOC, and it might last 25 years. Heat or improper storage will speed up the decline.

3. Lab Tests Don’t Match Reality

Those impressive cycle counts come from lab conditions where batteries are

Charged and discharged at high rates (1C–4C).

Cycled fully from 0–100% repetitively until the count is achieved.

Kept at controlled temperatures.

In your setup, you’re likely:

Charging slowly (0.1C–0.2C).

Using only part of the battery’s capacity - micro cycling.

Dealing with fluctuating temperatures.

Lab results don’t translate directly to how you use your battery.

4. Why We Don’t Hype Cycles

We don’t list cycle life in our manuals because those numbers can be misleading for real-world use. We’d rather give you honest expectations than overhyped marketing claims. Some companies lean on lab data to make their batteries sound indestructible, but we focus on how your battery will perform in your specific setup.

Want More Details?

Check out Will Prowse’s technical breakdown (Email us for the PDF). It explains why calendar aging, not cycle life, is the key factor in how long your LFP battery lasts for things like solar, RVs, OFF-GRID or backup power.

In Short

Cycle life is a flashy stat, but it’s shouldn't be the main focus for off-grid or RV users. Focus on proper use, keeping temperatures in check, and realistic expectations, and your LFP battery will serve you well for years.