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To protect your hoverboard from fire, there are several steps you can take. First and foremost, only purchase hoverboards from reputable sellers that comply with safety standards, such as ul-certified hoverboards. Avoid buying cheap or counterfeit hoverboards as they may have manufacturing defects that can lead to fires.
Additionally, always ensure that your hoverboard has safety features like overcharging protection and temperature control. It is also important to use the correct power source and charger that is specifically designed for your hoverboard model. Avoid charging your hoverboard overnight or leaving it unattended while charging.
Finally, store your hoverboard in a cool and dry place, away from flammable materials. By following these precautions, you can reduce the risk of hoverboard fires and ensure the safety of yourself and your property.
Why are Hoverboards Exploding?
Hoverboards are exploding primarily due to the use of lithium-ion batteries and their susceptibility to cheap quality and mistreatment. Many hoverboard brands prioritize cutting costs on batteries, resulting in the use of lower-quality and cheaper batteries.
This, in turn, increases the risk of explosions. Additionally, the location of the batteries inside the footrest makes them vulnerable to damage during rough and harsh driving. High temperatures, such as those experienced during hot weather or when leaving the hoverboard in direct sunlight, can also contribute to battery malfunctions and explosions.
Overcharging the battery or using a defective charger can further weaken the battery cells and potentially result in a fire. While not all hoverboards catch fire, it is crucial to prioritize hoverboard safety to prevent accidents and property damage.
Which Hoverboards Do Not Catch Fire?
There is no precise way to ensure which hoverboards will or will not catch fire. The entire concept of hoverboards is very new and recent, and there is very little data on its models. However, the best way to reduce the risk of fire is to stay away from cheap hoverboards and opt for top-notch brands like Swagtron, Segway, Jetson, Tomoloo, and Sisigad.
While these may be pricier, they are known for their quality and performance, which reduces the likelihood of fire incidents. Additionally, it is important to check the specs, quality, and brand of the hoverboard before making a purchase. Remember that the quality of the battery used and how well you treat the hoverboard also play a role in its safety.
Safety Tips to Protect Your Hoverboard From an Explosion
Hoverboards have become popular personal transportation devices, but they also pose certain risks, particularly when it comes to fire hazards. There have been numerous reports of hoverboards catching fire due to the lithium-ion batteries they use.
To ensure the safety of yourself and your property, it’s important to take precautions to protect your hoverboard from the risk of explosion. Here are some essential safety tips to keep in mind:
Buy Hoverboards with UL certification
When it comes to purchasing a hoverboard, it is crucial to prioritize safety and quality. One of the most important factors to consider is the UL certification. Hoverboards without UL certification are often made of lower-quality materials and have mass-produced batteries, making them more prone to performance issues and easy short-circuiting.
To ensure you are buying a safe and reliable hoverboard, it is recommended to check for the UI 2272 certification, which indicates that the hoverboard has undergone electrical certification and meets safety standards.
When buying a hoverboard, it is advisable to check trusted sources like Amazon, as it offers a wide range of certified hoverboards from reputable manufacturers. By choosing a hoverboard with UL certification, you can enjoy your personal transportation device safely and with peace of mind.
Keep Your Board Away from Water
Hoverboards, like any other electronic device, should always be kept away from water. If water seeps into the hoverboard, it is important to let it dry completely before attempting to use it again. This may take a minimum of 4 hours. It is crucial to resist the temptation to turn on the device immediately after exposure to water.
Instead, let it air dry naturally or use tissues to absorb as much water as possible. Avoid using a dryer, as this can heat up the battery and increase the risk of a short circuit. If possible, open the hoverboard to let it dry thoroughly.
It is also important to avoid charging the board after it has been exposed to water, as this can lead to battery damage and potentially cause a fire. By following these precautions, you can help protect your hoverboard from the risks associated with water exposure.
Don’t Charge the Hoverboard to Long
The background info regarding hoverboard safety and fire hazards indicates that it is crucial to avoid charging hoverboards for an extended period. Leaving hoverboards on charge for an extended duration, particularly overnight, can result in various risks.
Faulty switches, plugs without fuses, or defective chargers can cause the battery to overheat, potentially leading to an explosion. Cheap batteries can also increase the likelihood of fire accidents in electronic devices. It is important to adhere to the recommended charging time provided by the hoverboard manufacturer and avoid leaving the hoverboard unattended while charging.
Premium quality hoverboards typically take around 3 hours to fully charge, and it is important to remove the hoverboard from charging as soon as it is fully booted up. Fully charged batteries are unstable and have a higher risk of overheating and bursting over time. To ensure safety, it is advisable to keep the hoverboard charged to around 90% and follow the precise steps outlined in the Hoverboard charging guide for more information.
Keep your Hoverboard in a Cool Area
To protect your hoverboard from the risk of fire, it is crucial to keep it in a cool area when it is not being used. Batteries, especially lithium-ion batteries commonly used in hoverboards, are highly reactive to external temperatures and can overheat when exposed to excessive heat.
To prevent this, avoid driving the hoverboard in extreme temperatures, particularly during the hottest parts of the day. The hot sun can quickly heat up the device, and even the roads can contribute to the overall heat. Additionally, the metal wheels of the hoverboard can spark on heated roads and potentially lead to fires.
Therefore, it is advisable to park the hoverboard in the shade when taking breaks or when storing it for an extended period. By keeping your hoverboard in a cool area, you can significantly minimize the risk of fire and ensure the safety of yourself and your property.
Don’t fully charge the hoverboard if you are not using it
To protect your hoverboard from fire, it is important to follow proper charging practices, especially when the hoverboard is not in use. Fully charging the hoverboard when it is not being used can weaken the battery over time.
It is recommended to only charge the hoverboard once or twice before the actual ride, and avoid overcharging it without regular use. If the hoverboard is not consumed at least 60% after riding, do not put it on the charge. Overcharging without use can damage the battery cells and potentially lead to a fire.
By being mindful of your charging habits, you can reduce the risk of fire and ensure the long-term safety of your hoverboard.
Consider the Surface While Riding the Hoverboard
When riding a hoverboard, it is crucial to consider the surface you are riding on to protect your hoverboard from potential damage. The batteries of hoverboards are typically located below the footrest, and while high-end models may have their batteries covered and secured, most hoverboards have their batteries exposed.
Riding on rough or rugged surfaces can result in scratches, kicks, and other impacts that can cause significant damage to the batteries. To prevent this, it is important to carefully inspect and cross-check the surface of the road before riding your hoverboard. Additionally, for off-road or terrain riding, it is recommended to use all-terrain hoverboards that are specifically designed to withstand these kinds of conditions.
These hoverboards have sturdy protective materials around the batteries to ensure their safety and longevity. By being mindful of the surface you ride on and opting for appropriate hoverboard models, you can greatly reduce the risk of damage to your hoverboard and ensure a safe and enjoyable riding experience.
Store It In The Right Manner
When you’re not using your hoverboard, it’s crucial to store it properly to protect it from fire. To ensure its safety, store your hoverboard in a dry and room-temperature environment.
Avoid storing it in places that are damp, humid, or prone to temperature extremes. Also, make sure the hoverboard is turned off and not plugged into an outlet when not in use. Storing it properly not only helps to prevent fire hazards but also extends the lifespan of your hoverboard. By following these simple steps, you can ensure the longevity of your hoverboard and minimize the risk of fire.
Avoid Contact With Direct Sunlight
Just like with any electronic device, it’s important to avoid exposing your hoverboard to direct sunlight. The heat from the sun can damage the internal components of the hoverboard and shorten its lifespan. If you have to store your hoverboard outdoors, make sure to keep it in a shady area. This simple precaution can help protect your hoverboard from potential overheating issues and ensure its longevity.
Use A Bag To Cover It
If you need to store your hoverboard for an extended period of time, it is important to protect it from potential damage. One effective way to safeguard your hoverboard is by investing in a hoverboard storage bag or case. These specially designed bags provide an extra layer of protection, shielding your board from dirt, dust, and other harmful elements.
By using a bag to cover your hoverboard, you can help prolong its lifespan and prevent any external damage that could potentially compromise its functionality. Protecting your hoverboard with a storage bag is a simple and effective precautionary measure that ensures your board stays in good condition, ready to be used whenever you want.
Keep It Clean
To keep your hoverboard safe from the risk of fire, it is essential to keep it clean and free from dirt and debris. If you live in an area with a lot of dust or pollen, it is recommended to clean your hoverboard more frequently. You can use a vacuum with a soft brush attachment to effectively remove any build-up of dirt and debris.
After each ride, use a soft cloth to wipe down your hoverboard, paying close attention to the sensors and wheels, as these areas are most likely to get dirty. If your hoverboard gets wet, promptly dry it off to prevent any damage to the sensors and electronic components.
Keeping your hoverboard in a clean and dry environment when not in use not only reduces the risk of slipperiness but also contributes to a longer hoverboard lifespan. Remember, a clean hoverboard is a safer hoverboard.
FAQ
The main culprit behind hoverboards catching fire is the lithium-ion battery pack. Often, these batteries can overheat which can lead to smoking, explosions, and fire.
The best way to prevent a hoverboard fire is to avoid charging them overnight. Most hoverboards are designed to charge in two to three hours. Leaving them plugged in longer can increase the risk of the battery exploding.
One of the best things you can do is invest in a quality hoverboard that’s UL-certified. More importantly, don’t leave a fully charged scooter idle for extended periods.
A good hoverboard should be UL-certified. This means that the product has been rigorously tested against standards that ensure the lithium-ion battery won’t explode and that the USB charger and wiring won’t short circuit.
The average hoverboard should last between three and four years with normal wear before the lithium-ion battery eventually dies.
Conclusion:
Taking the necessary precautions to protect your hoverboard from fire is not only crucial for your safety but also for the longevity of your beloved gadget. By following these simple steps and being mindful of potential risks, you can enjoy hours of hoverboard fun without worrying about any fiery mishaps.
Remember, prevention is key, so keep your hoverboard charged, avoid overcharging, and always store it in a safe and well-ventilated area. Stay safe and hover on!
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