Lithium-ion batteries have become a staple in our lives due to their high energy density, lightweight design, and rechargeable nature. They power everything from smartphones and laptops to electric vehicles and energy storage systems. Despite their benefits, it's crucial to acknowledge that lithium-ion batteries can pose risks if not handled correctly.
When using lithium-ion batteries at home, understanding the risks and implementing proper mitigations is essential to ensure safety. In this article, we'll explore the safe use of lithium-ion batteries and offer insights to help you power up with confidence.
Lithium-ion Batteries – How to Minimise the Fire Risk
The below points outline the high risk factors of lithium-ion batteries. Take the following steps to make your house safer.
Keep It Cool
One of the most significant risks with lithium-ion batteries is thermal runaway. This occurs when the battery overheats and causes a self-sustaining reaction that releases heat and potentially leads to fires or explosions.
Lithium-ion batteries should be used and stored within their recommended temperature range. Extreme heat or cold can degrade battery performance and increase the risk of thermal runaway.
Do not leave mobile phones or laptops in direct sunlight for prolonged periods of time. It’s also important not to charge your phone under pillows, instead charge phone on a non-flammable surface.
Avoid Overcharging and Over-discharging
Charging lithium-ion batteries beyond their recommended voltage or discharging them to extremely low levels can lead to internal damage, reduced capacity, and safety hazards.
Do not leave batteries plugged in and charging unattended overnight, this is a common source of house fires in New Zealand. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for charging and discharging cycles. If possible, avoid storing lithium-ion power tools within the house, use an external shed or garage away from where you sleep.
Prevent Physical Damage
Puncturing, crushing, or physically damaging a lithium-ion battery can cause internal short circuits, leading to overheating and potential ignition.
Handle batteries with care and avoid exposing them to sharp objects, impacts, or crushing forces. Store batteries in protective cases if possible.
Be careful not to drop power tools as this can damage the battery and lead to failure.
Buy The Real Deal
Poorly manufactured batteries can have internal defects that increase the likelihood of thermal runaway. This risk is higher in counterfeit or substandard batteries.
Always buy lithium-ion batteries from reputable manufacturers and authorized sellers. Counterfeit or low-quality batteries are more likely to fail and pose safety risks.
Only use chargers recommended by the device manufacturer or the battery manufacturer. Incompatible chargers can lead to overcharging, overheating, and potential fires.
If You Discover a Lithium Fire
If you discover a fire in the very initial stages and you’re able to safely remove the device from the inside of your home, do that, evacuate your home and call 111. Although in most cases you may not discover the fire before it takes hold. In this case, your best option is to alert others in the home and evacuate straight away. A house can be fully engulfed in flames in less than five minutes. Get out, call 111 and stay out.
Empowering Safety in a Battery-Powered World
Lithium-ion batteries have transformed the way we power our devices and industries, but their potential risks cannot be ignored. By understanding these risks and following proper safety measures, we can harness the power of lithium-ion technology without compromising our safety. Always prioritise purchasing quality batteries, adhering to manufacturer guidelines, and staying vigilant to changes in battery performance.
Remember:
Do not leave mobile phones or laptops in direct sunlight for prolonged periods of time.
Do not leave devices charging unattended and charging overnight.
Always charge devices on non combustible surfaces and not under pillows – ensure adequate ventilation.
Store lithium ion power tools away from house / sleeping areas if possible, inside a garden shed or garage is ideal.
Always use reputable brand and correct charger for device.
Do not drop power tools.
If you discover a fire evacuate and call 111.
Always have working smoke alarms installed in your home.