Tips for preventing e-bike fires

E-bike fires and explosions are on the rise due in large part due lithium-ion batteries left near a heat source or in direct sunlight. Generally safe, lithium-ion batteries are desirable and used in many devices because they are rechargeable, higher energy, lightweight, power efficient, and stable, but they are also sensitive to high temperatures and inherently flammable. They have a highly combustible electrolyte fluid that can ignite if the battery overheats, is overcharged, damaged, or defective. 

Proper care and storage of e-bike batteries can prevent fires. Here are some tips below to help keep you and your e-bike safe.  

7 e-bike battery safety tips 

1. Never leave your e-bike battery unattended when recharging or charging overnight, even if it takes up to eight hours to charge.  
2. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions for charging and storing your battery and use the manufacturer’s power cord and adaptor made specifically for your bike.  
3. Do not use off-brand, aftermarket, or refurbished e-bike batteries. These batteries are prone to overheating. Stick to the manufacturer’s specifications.  
4. Buy batteries that are tested at a qualified testing laboratory.  
5. Do not charge or store your e-bike battery near the primary entrance of your home. For further safety measures, charge your bike near a smoke detector. 
6. Never charge your battery near any type of heat source, or anything flammable such as a radiator, bed, or couch.  
7. Store your e-bike/battery at room temperature and out of direct sunlight. When not using your battery, consider storing it in a fire-resistant container. 

Be sure to check if your battery is damaged or overheating. If you detect a burning or strange smell, smoke, change in shape, odd noises, or leaking, stop using the battery immediately. Do not try to fight a lithium battery fire yourself because of the threat of explosion and flying debris. Vacate the premises immediately and call 911. 

When your battery no long works, check with your municipality on how to dispose of and recycle your battery properly. Do not leave old lithium batteries lying around your house.

Protecting your e-bike

Now that you’ve learned how to prevent e-bike fires, you’ll want to consider protecting your e-bike with insurance. Your e-bike is an investment and you want to make sure you have adequate coverage for theft or damage. It’s a risky move for your e-bike to be uninsured. Fortunately, there’s bicycle insurance specifically for e-bikes. Electric bike insurance may provides coverage between auto, home and renters insurances where there are gaps and fine print exclusions.  

Consider Markel for your e-bike insurance. Markel offers a stand-alone e-bike insurance policy that insures e-bikes with power assist up to 750 watts and covers theft, damage and more. E-bike policies start at $100 per year* and offer a variety of coverage levels and deductible options. 

Each policy can be customized to fit you and your riding style. Coverages include protection for damage caused by theft, crash, collision, fire, attempted theft, vandalism or hitting another object. Coverage of spare parts, cycle apparel, and rental reimbursement are also included at no additional cost. 

Take action today and protect yourself and your e-bike.

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*Based on coverage selected. Actual premium may vary. Subject to terms, conditions and availability.