Why Batteries Catch Fire
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It starts with "Thermal Runaway" – a chain reaction where one cell overheats, spreads to others, and causes a fire. This is usually triggered by:
| Category | Simple Reason | What Happens |
|---|---|---|
| 🔧 Physical Damage | Drops, Crashes, or Punctures | The inner parts get crushed, causing an instant short circuit and extreme heat. |
| ⚡ Electrical Issues | Wrong Charger or Overcharging | A faulty or cheap charger doesn't stop when full, overloading the battery until it fails. |
| 🏭 Poor Quality | ** Cheap, No-Name Batteries** | Low-quality cells and bad wiring inside make the battery unstable from the start. |
| 🌡️ Heat & Water | Extreme Temperatures or Water | Charging in hot sun or a hot room, or submerging the battery, can lead to a short circuit. |
How to Prevent It: Do's & Don'ts
| Do's ✅ | Don'ts ❌ |
|---|---|
| USE the manufacturer's charger only. | LEAVE charging unattended or overnight. |
| CHARGE on a hard, non-flammable surface. | USE after-market or fast chargers. |
| LET battery cool down after riding before charging. | LET the battery fully drain regularly. |
| STORE at a 50-60% charge for long periods. | BUY ultra-cheap, off-brand batteries. |
| INSPECT for swelling, smells, or damage. | CHARGE near heat or in direct sunlight. |
🚨 Immediate Red Flags (Replace Battery Now!)
-
Swelling or Bulging
-
Strange Chemical Smell
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Overheating During Normal Use
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Leaking Fluid
In Case of Fire: EVACUATE first, then call the fire department. Do not try to be a hero.