The popularity of e-bikes and the risks associated with their batteries

E-bikes are everywhere in the Netherlands these days.  You or one of your housemates might have one. However, the battery for that bicycle can spontaneously burst into flames when it is being charged.

If you treat your battery carefully, the risk of that is small. All the same, fires caused by bicycle batteries breakout almost daily. It’s not just e-bikes either, but e-steps and e-scooters use these batteries as well.

Want to know more about the risks of e-bike batteries?

The risks of lithium-ion batteries

Lithium-ion batteries are now used in a great many electric devices. There are a lot of advantages to this. The devices are light, rechargeable and sustainable. There are also disadvantages, however.

The hidden danger of e-bike batteries: damage that you can’t see

If your e-bike ever falls over, you will check it for any visible damage, but there’s a hidden danger that you might overlook: the battery. And you can’t see that damage on the outside. That damage can cause your battery to become extremely hot and even catch fire.

What to do if you drop your battery

If your battery is knocked or dropped, it’s a good idea to have it checked by a bicycle specialist. They have special equipment for testing whether it is still safe. In the meantime, don’t connect the battery to a charger and don’t use it.

Smoke from the battery?

Then there’s definitely something wrong and you have to take immediate action! If possible, place the battery outside, telephone 112 and let the fire brigade do their work.

Tips for charging your e-bike battery at home safely

E-bikes are terrific, but it’s important to be aware of the risks and to treat the batteries safely.

  • Charge your bicycle battery up in a well-ventilated area, like a shed, storage space or a garage. Do not charge it up in your house itself!
  • Install a smoke alarm and make sure that there is a fire extinguisher close to where the battery is charged.
  • Inspect your battery for damage. If the battery has been dropped, damaged or knocked out of shape in some way, take it to a specialist company or recognised e-bicycle repairer to be checked.
  • Use your e-bike regularly, even if it is cold, to keep the battery in good condition.
  • Handy charging tips: follow the instructions, use the charger supplied and take the plug out of the socket when the battery is full.

Get in touch with us

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