Various factors affect a battery’s lifespan

The most significant factor is temperature

This is due to the chemical reactions inside the battery. Chemical activity increases in warm temperatures but decreases in cold temperatures.

In other words:

• At cold temperatures, the battery's lifespan will increase, but performance will decrease.
  • By reducing chemical activity, lifespan increases due to lower stress.
• At warm temperatures, the battery's lifespan decreases, but performance increases.
  • By increasing chemical activity, lifespan decreases due to higher stress.
     

Proper maintenance charging
When a battery is discharged, its lifespan is shortened. The impact of this varies depending on the type of battery.
It is important to read the battery's documentation and follow maintenance procedures to optimize lifespan.
 

Thus, the design lifespan is not a guarantee, but an indicator of how long one can expect the battery to last.
For example:  A 5-year lead battery typically lasts 3-5 years, and a 10-year lead battery lasts 6-10 years.
Understanding the design lifespan of batteries is crucial to selecting the right ones for your needs.

Battery types with the longest design lifespan

Lead-acid batteries (Gel/AGM/VRLA)
Last 5-10 years
These batteries are often used in systems like telecommunications, uninterruptible power supplies (UPS), and solar storage.
They are designed for deep cycles and require little maintenance, especially the advanced VRLA variants.
They have a long lifespan and require minimal upkeep.

Nickel-Cadmium (NiCd) Batteries
Last 15-20+ years
These are used in everything from aircraft to emergency lighting, and they are known for withstanding overcharging and deep discharges. They perform well even in extreme temperatures.
One drawback of NiCd batteries is that they contain cadmium, and regulations regarding this substance are very strict due to environmental concerns.

Nickel-Iron (NiFe) Batteries
Last 20-40+ years
Nickel-iron batteries can last for several decades. They are very durable, handle deep cycles well, and perform well in harsh environments.
However, they have lower energy density than desired and are difficult to manage due to their weight and size.

Lithium-Ion (LiFePO₄) (Lithium Iron Phosphate)
Last 10-15+ years
These batteries are used in electric vehicles, solar systems, and backup power systems. They are safer and more stable than other lithium-ion types, and they have a long lifespan with many charging cycles.