The Vape Battery Safety Guide

Rechargeable batteries are essential for some vaping devices and safely using them is more important. Many experienced vapers may know the basics but it is always advised to do research in case any new information or facts come to light. For those who are new to the vaping world, practising battery safety has to be a priority. It is essential for you to look after your batteries as misused batteries can pose a risk, we’re sure at some point you have heard a horrible story about vaping devices exploding, well these nightmares were down to not understanding the Ohms Law and also Battery safety.

One thing you need to know is most vape devices use the same type of battery mechanism as other electronic devices in your homes, such as phones, radios and even your games consoles. In 2017 when we had the exploding vape stories plastered all over the media, the fact is that it wasn’t the vapes that were exploding it was the batteries which as we have already mentioned is due to battery safety. Exploding lithium-ion batteries are extremely rare with there only being 1 in 10 million cases according to Battery University. Any battery-powered device can explode for the same reason a vape can, get the science wrong or treat them carelessly and they will be prone to malfunctioning

Here we will be explaining how you can store and use your batteries in a safe way. We would recommend bookmarking this page so that you can refer back to at a later date.

What are Vaping Batteries?

There are a few different sizes when it comes to vaping batteries, the most common ones used in devices is 18650 but there are others like the 20700, 21700 and even the 26650 cells. Despite the size of the batteries, they all need to be used and treated the same way, safely. Rechargeable vaping batteries are different from your usual rechargeable AA or AAA batteries.

Vaping batteries contain lithium-ion and if you want them to last you shouldn’t run them down to zero power, they don’t need to be completely discharged the same way that you would for Nickel-based batteries. To prolong the life of your batteries, try to recharge them as soon as your device notifies you of low battery. Also make sure not to leave your batteries charging overnight, though that rule should apply to all devices, including mobile phones.

Battery Safety Rules

So let us begin our guide, here are the rules and safety tips if you are using external rechargeable batteries:

Researching devices and vape batteries

It is of utmost importance that you do your researching before buying, make sure you buy a high-quality product, cheap knock offs may save you some money but you could be putting yourself and others at risk. This rule also applies when you are looking for a charger for your vape batteries, we would strongly recommend shopping for a smart charger as this is more regulated and has additional safety features. There’s also no point in wasting your hard-earned money on products that either may not work or become faulty so make sure you are buying products from reputable brands.

Vape Battery Condition

Batteries as you will know, have a metal casing and is surrounded by a PVC sleeve, which is also referred to as a wrap. Before using any batteries you should always check that the batteries are in good condition. There are a few things to look out for when checking batteries.

• Make sure the sleeve/ wrap isn’t torn or ripped.
• Only use a battery with a wrap.
• Check for rust or corrosion.
• Check for dents and any other damage

If your batteries have any of the above forms of damage or anything similar, make sure that you do not use them. Also, remember to dispose of batteries in a safe way. Most supermarkets have a battery disposal bin which you can use free of charge.

Using your Vaping Batteries

When your batteries are not in your device, make sure you store them safely. Always keep them stored in a case and do not leave batteries loose in your bag or pockets. Two batteries tumbling around together is another main cause of batteries exploding, we strongly advise to invest in a couple of transport cases for batteries. Loose batteries that come into contact with other metals such as coins, keys can cause a complete circuit which can result in an explosion.
Airports also advise people to make sure not to put vape devices or vape batteries into hold luggage, these should always be packed into your hand luggage. This is for safety reasons as hand luggage is always more accessible than in the hold, this does not, however, mean that you should ever use your vape whilst on the plane. Many people actually remove their batteries from their device before getting on a plane and ensure these are also kept in a safe case.
Don’t exceed the amps of your battery - understanding Ohms Law is vital when it comes to battery safety. Take the discharge rate (the amps) divide it by your voltage level by coil resistance (ohms) and never exceed this rating.

Do not expose your batteries to extreme temperatures, this doesn’t just mean heat but also the cold. Fluctuating temperatures, either extremely cold or extremely hot can result in damage to your vaping device’s battery which could lead to explosions. Batteries are generally safest between 10 and 46 degrees Celsius (50 and 115 degrees Fahrenheit).

Charging your Vaping Batteries

You may just want to chuck your batteries on charge and go to sleep or get out the house for that hot date you have but you may want to rethink that and plan ahead.

Never leave your batteries charging unattended, this is also a safety risk,

• Don’t leave batteries or devices charging unattended.
• Don’t rest or charge your device or batteries on flammable surfaces
• Don’t mix and match different sets of batteries.
• Don’t overcharge your batteries
• Don’t over-discharge your batteries (Run them down completely)

It may sound like common sense but you should never rest devices or batteries on flammable items, this includes pillows, blankets and paper. You may have heard of the terrible fault some mobile phones had with exploding.

Unfortunately, it has become a bad habit for people to put their mobile phones on charge under their pillow, this is a big no go for anything you have to plug into the wall. This also means don’t leave them charging in direct sunlight.

We do recommend doing research to make sure you have the latest news and information. One final tip for you, if you see something odd with your battery don't ignore it. Always be safe.