There is a lot of media attention highlighting safety issues with ebike batteries so we have put together some tips to help you care for your ebike battery.
Battery Care
- It is important to look after your battery and handle it with care. Do not drop or submerge in water for example.
- When charging the battery, it is important to charge it correctly by using the charger that it comes with because it is specifically designed for that battery.
- Using an incorrect charger can not only invalidate your warranty by causing irreversible damage to the cells but it can also potentially cause the battery to catch fire or explode.
- Please note that even if 2 chargers look alike, they may be very different.
- Store ebike batteries in a dry place, away from direct sunlight or other heat sources. Charge at room temperature. Avoid extremes of hot and cold temperatures.
- Hot temperatures. Lithium batteries do not like heat so keep out of the sun where possible and direct sunlight on hot days. Keep away from heat sources such as radiators or fires. Keep extreme heat to a minimum this will help prolong the life of your battery.
- Cold temperatures. Avoid when possible. It is important to acclimatise the battery before charging as quick changes in temperature are not good for it.
- Choose where to charge. Charge on a dry, flat, non-flammable surface.
- Do not charge on soft surfaces, close to flammable materials or near hazardous substances.
- An additional precaution is also to avoid charging batteries in hallways, near doors or blocking escape routes.
- Do not charge your battery ‘overnight’ or leave on charge for extended periods of time. Do not leave unattended. Unplug the charger once the battery is charged to avoid overheating.
- Charge your battery by plugging directly into a wall socket – avoid using extension cables.
- Do not attempt to modify or repair your battery – always seek help from a qualified professional.
Please note when replacing batteries, it is important to purchase manufacturer recommended batteries which have safety certification for the product. Purchasing and using non-compatible or non-certified batteries could present a fire risk.
Replacement batteries for RooDog ebikes: If you have any questions, we can offer advice and also replacement batteries. If you have any queries, please contact us.
For more information, please see the UK Government Guidance “Battery safety for e-cycle users” (Published 1 February 2024).
Additional Battery Care
- If leaving the battery for long periods of time. Such as storing over winter, try to leave it 40% – 50% charged as high cell voltage for long periods contributes hugely to reduce battery lifespan.
- Do not fully discharge the battery whenever possible and do more little charges between uses. (Larger recharges/discharges shorten the cycle count because it puts stress on the battery). However periodically run a full discharge and full recharge every 3-6 months to keep all of the battery cells balanced.
- Charge your battery at least once every 4 – 6 weeks whether you are using it or not. This will stop the battery from going it to a sleep state (Not working) and needing special expertise and equipment to revive. (Allowing this to happen could also affect your warranty)
Battery disposal
Batteries can be recycled at your local recycling center. It is a good idea when disposing of a lithium battery to check local scheme requirements. Alternatively, RooDog can accept old batteries and dispose of them.
All information is given as a guide and should be only used as a guide to help in the care of your RooDog Lithium ebike battery. RooDog Ltd will not be held responsible for any misuse of the information provided.