Understanding the Risks: Why do Electric Bikes Catch Fire and How to Prevent It

Electric bikes, as we know e-bikes, are the latest product of technology that the masses have incredibly loved. Yet, it has brought attention to a concerning issue: the risk of e-bike fires. 

E-bike battery fire statistics prove that 1 in 15000 e-bikes will cause a fire hazard sometime. Though this incident is rare for high-quality bikes, it can be severe. 

It can bring up property damage and injuries to nearby people. You must be conscious of why electric bikes catch fire and how to prevent them if you are an e-bike owner.

 

What Causes E-Bike Battery Fires?

The biggest reason behind e-bike fires is the lithium-ion batteries used to power them. These batteries are a part of multiple electric devices owing to their high energy density and lightweight design. 

Plus, they are rechargeable. The chemistry and structure of these devices make them sensitive to damage. Let's outline the essential reasons for lithium-ion battery fires:

 

Heat Damage

Lithium-ion batteries can overheat if exposed to extreme temperatures or pressure. This pressure causes physical damage and electrical faults. Overheating triggers a chain reaction to release heat and gases, which can cause the battery to catch fire or even explode.

 

Overcharging

Charging a battery beyond its recommended capacity will also accumulate excessive heat. In some cases, the chargers can be faulty, or fluctuations in power bring up this issue. It will destroy the battery's internal components.

 

Physical Damage

Drops or accidents can puncture the battery's protective casing. Even a minor crack can expose its internal components to air or moisture. Moisture and presence of oxygen escalate the risk of fire.

 

Poor Quality Batteries

E-bikes from unreliable sources often use poor-quality batteries, so electric bikes catch fire. They are cheaper, and lack required safety features like thermal protection and overcharge prevention. Eozzie is a leading supplier of electric bikes that are guaranteed high quality.

 

Poor Charging Practices

If you are using incompatible chargers or charging in extreme temperatures, stop doing this. These are the common mistakes that can result in overheating or electrical faults. Another common issue is leaving the bike on charging even when fully charged. 

 

Age

Batteries are not made to last forever. Lithium-ion batteries will degrade, as with all electric devices, and their internal resistance increases with time. An older or heavily used battery is vulnerable to malfunctions, which could result in electric bike fire hazards.

 

How to Prevent E-Bike Fires?

Although the risks are accurate, the good news is that precautions can massively decrease the chances of electric bikes catching fire. Here's what you should do:

 

Buy Reliable E-Bikes and Batteries

• Always purchase e-bikes and replacement batteries from reputable manufacturers or retailers.

• Ask for batteries that follow the safety certifications, such as UL 2271 (for lithium-ion batteries) or equivalent standards.

• Avoid second-hand or counterfeit batteries, even if they seem like a bargain. This will end up costing you more.

 

Use the Correct Charger

• Always use the charger provided by the manufacturer. If it gets lost, find one designed for your battery model.

• Avoid using universal or third-party chargers, as they will not regulate voltage and current as designed.

 

Charge with Precaution

• Charge your e-bike battery in a well-ventilated area away from flammable materials.

• Do not charge the battery in extreme temperatures. Ideally, you must keep it between 50°F and 85°F (10°C to 30°C).

• Never leave a charging battery unattended for a long time. Unplug it as soon as it's fully charged to prevent electric bicycle fires.

 

Check Your Battery Regularly

• Check for visible signs of damage, such as dents or leaks. If you notice anything abnormal, you must stop using the battery immediately.

• If the battery gets unusually hot while charging, get it checked by a professional.

 

Store the Battery Properly

• Batteries must be kept in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and flammable materials.

• It's better to charge the bike again before it's entirely depleted. You should always aim for a charge level of around 50%.

 

Dispose of Batteries 

• Old or damaged batteries should be recycled at authorized facilities. Never throw them in regular trash, as improper disposal can create fire hazards.

 

Final Thoughts

E-bike fires are an alarming issue that can even take away lives. But don't stress out! This is largely preventable if you follow the necessary precautions. 

You must understand the common causes and follow safe practices to eradicate this risk. As an e-bike owner, you must prioritize safety for yourself. 

Always purchase E-bikes from reliable sources like Eozzie to stay safe from such issues.