Ever hopped on a hoverboard and thought, “Gee, I sure hope this thing doesn’t burst into flames today!”? If that’s you, then this guide is just the ticket. We’re going to share all the details on how to score hoverboards that don’t catch fire—literally.
Hoverboards, with their high-tech charm, didn’t exactly hit the ground running. The early models sometimes caught fire, sparking a ton of safety worries. So, what went wrong, and why did it turn into such a big deal?
Understanding Why Hoverboards Caught on Fire
Lithium-ion batteries are the lifeblood of any hoverboard. These little dynamos are the ones making sure we’re cruising down the street without a hitch. But remember, folks, with such power comes the need for some serious responsibility.
When these batteries aren’t manufactured correctly, get banged up, or just aren’t up to snuff, they can start to “overheat.” This overheating was the culprit behind some hoverboards catching fire. Sure, these incidents weren’t common, but they were serious enough to cause quite a stir and kickstart some much-needed innovation.
The Problem With Substandard Chargers
Much like a car needs gas to run, a hoverboard needs a decent charger to keep it rolling. Sadly, back in the day, some hoverboards were paired with less-than-stellar chargers, causing a few batteries to get overcharged.
This overcharging got the batteries all hot and swelling, and, you guessed it, sometimes they flamed up. As the old saying goes, “You’re only as strong as your weakest link”, and it sure hit home in these cases.
Improvement in Technology and Safety Regulations
But don’t sweat it; we’re not here to be party poopers. We bet you’ll be stoked to learn that both the technology and safety rules for hoverboards have made some serious strides.
Advancements in Battery Technology
The bigwigs in tech have been working very hard to improve lithium-ion batteries. Today’s versions are less likely to go up in smoke, which is a win for us hoverboard enthusiasts.
Adoption of Strict Safety Standards and Certifications
And it’s not just about the batteries. Companies now have to meet tough safety standards. One biggie you’ve probably seen around is the UL 2272 certification.
Steps to Choose Hoverboards that Don’t Catch on Fire
Now that we’ve covered the basics, let’s get down to brass tacks. Here’s your step-by-step guide to finding a hoverboard that won’t go up in smoke.
Recognizing Safety Certifications
When shopping around, look for the UL 2272 certification. This stamp of approval means the hoverboard has passed a series of rigorous fire safety tests.
Think of it as a seal of “trust”. We can’t stress this enough—you want to ride with peace of mind, so only go for UL-certified hoverboards.
Read Product Reviews and Ratings
You wouldn’t buy a car without reading reviews, right? Do the same for your hoverboard. Reviews are your window into the good, the bad, and the downright ugly. They can tip you off to any “red flags” that may not be obvious at first glance.
Common complaints about battery life, charging issues, or worse—fire incidents—are major no-nos. You’d do well to steer clear of such models.
Verify the Manufacturer’s Reputation and Transparency
You’ve got to know who’s behind the product. Check out the company’s track record and how transparent they are about their safety measures.
A company with a clean slate is what you’re looking for. It’s an indicator that they’re committed to delivering safe, quality hoverboards. Also, peek at their warranty and customer support. A company that stands by its products will have a solid warranty and a responsive, “helpful” customer service team.
Ensure Proper Battery Quality and Charger Integrity
The cherry on top is making sure the battery and charger are top-notch. A good battery equals a smooth ride, and you shouldn’t settle for anything less.
And remember, the charger is just as important. Make sure it’s built to last, doesn’t get too hot under the collar, and has all the right safety badges.
Top 3 Non-Flammable Hoverboards in 2023
Looking for a guiding light in the hunt for the top non-flammable hoverboards? We’ve done the legwork for you. Here are the three best non-flammable hoverboards to buy in 2023:
1. Gotrax 8.5″ All Terrain Off Road Hoverboard
Score8.4OUT OF 10
The GOTRAX hoverboard knocked the rigorous electrical, battery, and charger system tests out of the park, earning itself the UL2272 safety certification. It’s a testament to its rock-solid safety. This hoverboard isn’t shy about showing off its unique UL certification label right on its floor.
And don’t think this cool ride is just for adults! It’s perfect for riders of all sizes, comfortably carrying anyone between 44 and 220 lbs. Plus, its 8.5-inch off-road rubber tires can tackle any terrain, delivering a smooth and stable ride.
Pros
Sturdy and durable design
Equipped with a 144Wh battery with a range of 60-90 minutes or 7.5 miles per charge
Two LED headlights provide a safer ride at night.
5 inch off road rubber tires for all terrains for a smooth and secure ride
Cons
May be a bit pricier
2. TOMOLOO Off-Road Hoverboard
Score8.0OUT OF 10
The TOMOLOO Off-Road hoverboard dominates any terrain thanks to its UL2272 and UL2271 certifications for the board and battery, respectively. Not only does it meet all U.S. safety regulations, but it’s also the proud holder of an invention patent.
With up to 1,000 battery charges, this hoverboard goes the distance. Its flame-retardant shell is fireproof, resistant to high temperatures, and shockproof, with a waterproof feature to boot. The anti-slip foot pad also adds an extra layer of safety. All these features come together to deliver a top-notch, safe riding experience.
Pros
The flame-retardant shell is fireproof, high temperature resistant, shock-resistant, and waterproof
Has anti-slip texture and great road-holding capabilities,
has three speed options and a self-test feature
The latest 4.2 Bluetooth technology provides a stereo surround sound music experience
The EPCTEK Hoverboard doesn’t just meet the UL2272 electrical and safety standards—it nails them, ensuring a safe, stable, and controllable ride for kids. Additionally, it features a self-balancing control system that works like a charm to ward off any unwanted tumbles or shakes.
With a top speed of 6 mph and the strength to carry anyone between 44 and 154 lbs, this ride is spot on. And for all you beginners and amateurs out there, this hoverboard is a piece of cake to master and keep balanced.
Whether you want to cruise straight, spin around, or pull off a cool 360-degree rotation, this hoverboard has got your back!
Pros
Has anti-skid pedals, anti-skid tires, an over-speed warning, and speed reduction
Easy and enjoyable – Full of technology and simple to learn for beginners and amateurs
Has three lighting effects: workout lights, light strips, and motor lights
Safety protection measures to restrict the speed of self-balancing scooter hoverboards
Cons
Bad customer service
How to Ensure My Hoverboard Doesn’t Catch Fire: Safety Tips
Safety Measure
Reason
UL 2272 Certification
Have undergone safety testing and meet fire safety standards
Battery Safety
Use high-quality Lithium-ion batteries
Charging Practices
Use a manufacturer-provided charger
Do not overcharge
Storage Safety
Store in a cool, dry place, away from extreme temperatures.
The UL 2272 certification is the hoverboard’s equivalent of a gold star. Underwriters Laboratories (UL), a business that is knowledgeable about safety, distributes it.
If a hoverboard can boast this certification, it means it’s breezed through a boatload of safety tests, with a special focus on keeping things electrically safe and fire-free. Remember, this is the “gold standard” you should be hunting for when you’re in the market for a hoverboard.
Great question! First off, stick to hoverboards with the UL 2272 certification; it’s proof that the board has been put through its paces. Next, always stick with the charger that came with your hoverboard, as other chargers might not play nice and could cause problems.
Lastly, don’t turn a blind eye to any weird stuff, like your hoverboard getting too hot or throwing a fit when charging. If something smells fishy, contact the manufacturer right away.
If your hoverboard goes up in flames, safety comes first. Don’t even think about using water to douse the flames; that’ll just fan the fire. Instead, grab a fire extinguisher (only if it’s safe, of course) or dial up the fire department right away.
After the dust settles, report the incident to the Consumer Product Safety Commission to help keep this from happening to someone else down the line.
In a nutshell, it’s not a great idea. Most hoverboards are raring to go after just a few hours of charging. Leaving it on the charger all night can lead to overcharging, which could get things heated and possibly start a fire. Always check the manufacturer’s guide for the lowdown on the right way to do things.
Counterfeit hoverboards can be dangerous and are often more likely to catch fire. Signs of a fake can include missing brand names, suspiciously low prices, poor-quality packaging or manuals, and a lack of UL certification.
It’s always best to buy from reputable retailers and directly from the manufacturer whenever possible. Remember, folks, the key to staying safe with hoverboards is to stay informed and always prioritize safety over convenience or cost.
Conclusion
In the end, finding hoverboards that don’t catch on fire is all about doing your homework. Keep your eyes peeled for safety certifications, read those reviews, check out the company, and always, always verify the quality of the battery and charger. Do all this, and you’re golden. Safe hoverboarding, folks!
Hi! My name is Johnathan, and I am the creator of ScooterAdvice360.com. Having been riding motor scooters and bikes for over 20 years, I have picked up a few things! I ran my own scooter store in Florida, selling all manner of motor scooters, mobility scooters, hoverboards, e-scooters and accessories, from Forzas to Vipers, Hellcats to Vespas.
Here, at ScooterAdvice360.com, I want to ensure everyone has access to the information that they need to enjoy their bikes and scooters for longer.
