Headlamp batteries

[Brad]

I recall a comment on the forum about using lithium batteries in headlamps. On the REI web site there is an interesting warning.

Petzl warns against the use of lithium batteries with this headlamp as doing so might cause the lamp to overheat and damage the LED bulbs.

[Charlie]

is that with all there head lamps

[Bill O]

Sounds like a risk worth taking...or at least testing before hand.

I've never had a problem with lithium in my headlamps.

[Brad]

is that with all there head lamps

With the LED ones, yes.

Maybe using them in cold winter weather, like most of us do, is fine.

[Bill O]

Scientifically it doesn't make sense.

1.5 volts from a lithium should be the same as a regular battery, a nuclear reactor or solar power.

[Brad]

But do lithium batteries generate heat in themselves when working and other types do not?

[Bill O]

I only have Black Diamond headlamps.

Seems like a death sentence if Petzl can't figure out how to make their LED headlamps work with superior batteries.

[mtruman]

Hmmm, sounds strange. I agree with Bill about the 1.5 volts should be the same no matter what. All I've used in our headlamps for years is lithiums. Same thing for the camera (the ones that take AAs anyway) and the GPS. Certainly worth the extra life and lower weight when doing extended hikes. Now I'm curious though. Going to have to research the Petzl thing...

[Patrad Fischroy]

I think the issue is just the reputation that Lithium batteries can produce some significant heat during discharge and Petzl is just covering themselves. Since the main advantage to the use of lithium batteries is in relatively cold temperatures, it should not be much of an issue.

[mtruman]

I think the issue is just the reputation that Lithium batteries can produce some significant heat during discharge and Petzl is just covering themselves. Since the main advantage to the use of lithium batteries is in relatively cold temperatures, it should not be much of an issue.

Why is the advantage just in cold temperatures? The life for lithiums in any temperature is much longer than the alternatives. I use them year round in any gear that I don't want frequent battery replacement in.