Air-Cooled vs. Liquid-Cooled LFP ESS: Which is Right for Your Project?
What is LFP ESS Cooling Technology?
Lithium Iron Phosphate (LFP) batteries are widely used in energy storage systems (ESS) because of their safety, stability, and long lifespan. However, as system capacities increase—from residential 5kWh units to large-scale containerized 5MWh projects—thermal management becomes critical.
Two major cooling methods dominate the market: air-cooled and liquid-cooled systems. Each has its advantages depending on the application, cost, and operating environment.
Types of LFP ESS Cooling Systems
Air-Cooled ESS
Uses fans and airflow to maintain battery temperature.
Common in small to medium-sized systems.
Simpler design and easier maintenance.
Cost-effective for standard applications.
Example: Dagong ESS 100kWh–241kWh air-cooled cabinets.
Liquid-Cooled ESS
Uses coolant circulation for precise heat management.
Best for high-capacity and industrial systems.
Maintains temperature uniformity across cells.
Higher efficiency under heavy loads.
Example: Dagong ESS 215kWh and 372kWh liquid-cooled systems.
Features of Air-Cooled vs. Liquid-Cooled LFP ESS
Air-Cooled Systems
Lower initial cost
Easier installation and maintenance
Suitable for mild climates and moderate loads
Compact design for residential and commercial use
Liquid-Cooled Systems
Precise temperature control
Better suited for hot climates or high-power cycles
Extended battery lifespan under heavy-duty use
Ideal for large industrial or utility-scale storage
Applications of Air-Cooled and Liquid-Cooled ESS
Residential Energy Storage (5kWh–80kWh)
Typically uses air-cooled wall-mounted or stackable systems.Commercial Buildings (100kWh–241kWh)
Air-cooled cabinets handle peak shaving and backup power efficiently.Industrial Applications (215kWh–372kWh)
Liquid-cooled systems manage high loads with greater stability.Utility-Scale Projects (3.35MWh–5MWh)
Containerized liquid-cooled systems ensure safe, stable operation under continuous cycling.
For example, Dagong ESS 3.35MWh liquid-cooled container is commonly applied in solar farms, while 5MWh air-cooled containers support commercial parks and microgrids.
Price of Air-Cooled vs. Liquid-Cooled ESS
The cost of LFP energy storage systems for renewable energy integration depends on several factors, including:
System capacity
Cooling method (air vs. liquid)
Installation environment
Auxiliary equipment and control software
Pricing is usually quoted under international trade terms such as EXW, FOB, or CIF, depending on project location and logistics preferences.
For a tailored quotation based on your specific project needs, it is best to consult directly with the supplier.
How to Select the Right Cooling System?
For Residential & Small Businesses: Air-cooled systems (5kWh–100kWh) are typically sufficient.
For Medium Commercial Use: Air-cooled cabinets up to 241kWh provide cost-effective peak shaving.
For Industrial & Utility Projects: Liquid-cooled systems (215kWh–372kWh, 3.35MWh containers) ensure better performance.
Climate Consideration: Hot climates or high cycling conditions favor liquid cooling.
Budget & Maintenance: Air cooling offers simplicity and lower costs, liquid cooling offers efficiency and long-term stability.
How Long Do These Systems Last?
Air-Cooled ESS: Typically 8,000 cycles and 10–12 years under standard usage.
Liquid-Cooled ESS: Designed for 15+ years of operation, especially in heavy-duty applications.
Both systems benefit from LFP chemistry’s inherent stability, ensuring safety throughout their lifecycle.
The Supplier of Air-Cooled and Liquid-Cooled ESS
Dagong ESS provides a wide range of air-cooled and liquid-cooled LFP energy storage systems, including:
5kWh–80kWh stackable/wall-mounted systems for homes
100kWh–241kWh air-cooled cabinets for commercial buildings
215kWh–372kWh liquid-cooled systems for industrial use
3.35MWh liquid-cooled and 5MWh air-cooled containers for grid-scale projects
These solutions ensure optimal performance across diverse environments and applications.
If you are interested in choosing the right cooling technology for your energy storage project, please contact Dagong ESS:
If you are interested in choosing the right cooling technology for your energy storage project, please contact Dagong ESS:
Email: sales@dagongess.com
Website: www.dagongess.com