Battery Safety Tips
Caring for Your E-Cigarette Batteries: Essential Tips for Vapers
Batteries are the lifeblood of e-cigarettes, supplying the power needed to convert e-liquid into the flavourful vapour that satisfies your cravings. Whether you use a pod kit, starter kit, advanced vape kit, or box mod, a functional battery is key to a fulfilling vaping experience. Proper maintenance of your e-cigarette batteries not only ensures optimal performance but also safeguards your safety.
Types of Vape Device Batteries
Vape devices typically use either internal or external batteries.
Internal Batteries
Often known as 'built-in' or 'integrated' batteries, internal batteries are non-removable and generally charged via a USB cable. It's advisable to use the cable provided with your kit, or if necessary, replace it with one from a reliable vape supplier.
Since internal damage to these batteries can be hard to detect and potentially hazardous, it is always recommended if you notice anything out of the ordinary, like longer charging times, random shut offs or flickering screens, taking you device into a reputable vape store or replacing the battery is always recommended.
Tips for Internal Battery Care:
- Safe Storage: Keep your e-cigarette in a secure place away from children, pets, extreme temperatures, moisture, and metal objects to prevent short circuits.
- Optimal Charging: Recharge your battery at 20-30% charge and avoid complete drainage.
- Prevent Overcharging: Disconnect the battery once fully charged and avoid overnight charging.
- Visible Charging Area: Charge on a non-flammable, flat surface and never leave it charging unattended.
Can You Vape While Charging?
Although some devices offer 'Pass-Through' charging, allowing usage during charging, this practice is now generally discouraged. It can lead to overheating, slower charging, and reduced battery life. For safety and battery longevity, refrain from vaping while charging.
External Batteries
Preferred for advanced vape kits and box mods, external batteries like the 18650 and 21700 provide high power output for customizable vaping experiences. However, they pose risks if mishandled, such as fire hazards or explosions.
Tips for External Battery Care:
- Safe Purchasing: Always buy from dedicated vape suppliers to ensure compatibility and safety.
- Proper Storage: Store batteries in cool, dry places, preferably in a battery case, away from metal objects.
- Use a Suitable Charger: Employ chargers specifically designed for your batteries.
- Charging Practices: Avoid overcharging or undercharging; recharge at 20-30% and remove once full.
- Battery Pairing: Use the same set of batteries for each device to maintain voltage balance.
Battery Lifespan and Disposal
External vape batteries typically last 6-12 months, with a charge cycle limit of around 300 times. When batteries show signs of wear, like reduced capacity, torn wraps or longer recharge times, they should be replaced.
Proper disposal is crucial for safety and environmental protection. Recycle your batteries at designated points or consult local recycling centres.
Key Safety Protections in E-Cigarettes: A Guide for Vapers
Modern e-cigarettes, encompassing everything from advanced vape kits to simple pod kits and starter kits with internal batteries, are equipped with multiple safety features. These protections are crucial for preventing battery damage and ensuring safe vaping experiences.
When selecting your next e-cigarette, consider these vital safety features:
- Short Circuit Protection: This safeguard automatically deactivates the device if a short circuit occurs in the atomizer, preventing potential damage and injuries.
- Overheat Protection: Designed to avert overheating, this feature shuts down the device when excessive heat is detected, protecting both the user and the device.
- Low Voltage Protection: This function prevents the e-cigarette from operating if the battery voltage drops too low, safeguarding against battery damage and ensuring safe usage.
- Over-Discharge Protection: This protection stops the battery from draining below a safe threshold. If the battery voltage falls too low, the device powers down, preserving battery integrity and safety.
- Overcharge Protection: To prevent overcharging, this feature halts the charging process when the battery reaches its maximum safe voltage, ensuring the longevity and safety of the battery.
- Automatic Cut-Off: This mechanism limits the device's firing duration to a specific time frame, helping to prevent overheating and ensuring safer operation.
Each of these features plays a crucial role in ensuring your vaping experience is as safe as it is enjoyable. By understanding and looking for these protections, you can make more informed choices about your e-cigarette purchases.