E-bike battery fires are very rare, and following some simple best practices can help further prevent them.
- To ensure safety, e-bikes should be tested for compliance with either the ANSI/CAN/UL-2849 or EN-15194 standards, which cover electrical and fire safety, and are recognized in North America and Europe respectively.
- Only use the battery and the charger that were designed for, and came with, the device. Do not use aftermarket, low-cost, counterfeit, or refurbished e-bike batteries. Only charge your e-bike battery with the charger provided by the manufacturer.
- Don’t modify your e-bike or attempt to repair it yourself. For maintenance, always go to an authorized dealer for your e-bike brand.
- Do not keep charging the device or device battery after it is fully charged. Do not leave a charging e-bike battery unattended or on the charger overnight.
- Store batteries away from anything flammable. Store and charge your battery in a dry environment at room temperature and protect it from direct sunlight. Store e-bikes and their batteries away from exit doors and anything that can get hot or catch fire. If possible, store your e-bike battery in a fire-resistant cabinet or container when not in use. Keep batteries away from children and liquids.
- You should only charge the battery up to 100% when you first receive it to balance its cells, however, subsequent charges should only go up to 80% (unless your intended trip is an exception, like e-cargo touring.) This reduces stress on the cells which will aid in expanding the life of your battery. When storing it long-term, store the battery with a 30% to 60% charge and avoid completely discharging it before storing.
- Stop using the e-bike if you notice any of these problems with the battery: unusual odor, change in color, too much heat, change in shape, leaking, smoking, or not keeping a charge. Do not use or attempt to charge a damaged or malfunctioning e-bike battery. Store it outside and away from flammable objects until it can be safely disposed of.
- Do not put lithium-ion batteries in the trash. Recycling is always the best option. Take the batteries to a battery recycling location or contact your local waste department for disposal instructions.
- If you see a fire leave the building immediately and call 911. Lithium-ion battery fires give off toxic gases and they burn extremely hot.