Air-Cooled vs. Liquid-Cooled ESS: What’s the Difference?
What is Air-Cooled and Liquid-Cooled Energy Storage Systems?
Air-Cooled Systems
Air-cooled ESS use fans and vents to circulate air and dissipate heat. They are simpler in structure and suitable for environments with stable temperatures and lower energy densities.
Liquid-Cooled Systems
Liquid-cooled ESS use a closed-loop system where coolant fluid absorbs and transfers heat away from battery modules. They are ideal for high-capacity systems and harsh climates.
Features of Air-Cooled vs. Liquid-Cooled Systems
Feature | Air-Cooled System | Liquid-Cooled System |
---|---|---|
Cooling Efficiency | Moderate | High |
System Complexity | Simple | More complex |
Noise Level | Higher (fan noise) | Lower |
Maintenance | Low | Moderate to High |
Suitable Capacity | ≤100kWh | ≥100kWh |
Lifespan Impact | More temperature fluctuation | Better thermal stability |
Applications of Air-Cooled and Liquid-Cooled ESS
Air-Cooled ESS
Home energy storage systems
Small-scale C&I applications
Indoor installations with ventilation
Liquid-Cooled ESS
Utility-scale energy storage
High-power C&I ESS (100–215kWh+)
Harsh environments (deserts, tropics, high-altitude regions)
Integrated systems with EV charging
How to Select the Right Cooling System for Your Project?
Consider the following when making your decision:
Installation Environment: Hot climates or sealed containers may require liquid cooling.
System Capacity: Systems above 100kWh typically benefit from liquid cooling.
Budget Constraints: Air cooling suits smaller budgets and less critical operations.
Performance Requirements: Liquid cooling ensures longer cycle life and better battery health.
Maintenance Capability: Air cooling is easier to maintain for remote installations.
How Long Do These Systems Last?
Air-Cooled Systems: Typically 8–10 years, depending on usage and ventilation.
Liquid-Cooled Systems: Up to 15 years with proper maintenance and coolant replacement.
The Supplier of High-Quality LFP Energy Storage Systems
Dagong ESS is a professional manufacturer of customized battery energy storage systems. Products range from:
Household ESS (5–80kWh)
Utility-Scale Containerized BESS (1MWh to 10MWh)
We continuously strive to meet the evolving needs of our customers with dependable and customizable energy storage products.
If you are looking for Battery Energy Storage System(BESS) with hybrid inverter for solar & grid or want to know more about the technical information, please feel free to contact Dagong ESS(Dagong New Energy) .