Hoverboards are amazing devices you can zoom on, just like the flying carpet or the futuristic generation! It is like gliding through the air but on the ground.
Hoverboards have become a famous item for humans of all ages. They provide a trendy and easy means of private transportation. To move around, you simply have to lean in the direction you desire to go. It is like gliding through the air but on the ground!
They have come under fire recently due to unsettling instances of spontaneous combustion. Although they might provide a unique and entertaining mode of transportation, you cannot disregard safety issues. Hoverboard enthusiasts, let’s explore this burning issue together!
The hoverboard, which has two motorized wheels connected by a pair of articulated pads on which the rider stands, is a self-balancing scooter. Just leaning forward or backward on the pads allows the rider to change direction and speed.
Despite their popularity in our surroundings, hoverboards have been linked to numerous fire incidents worldwide. They have led to serious injuries and collateral property damage. This alarming rise in accidents makes you question why hoverboards are catching fire.
Battery-Operated Charging Systems
The quality and type of batteries used in these devices heavily influence the hoverboard’s safety. A key factor contributing to fires has been excessive charging of boards, which most users tend to do.
Rechargeable Lithium-ion batteries power these hoverboards. Due to their extensive strength density, extended durability, and lightweight nature, lithium-ion batteries are frequently used in various portable electronic devices. However, these batteries have a prominent flaw. Under certain circumstances, they can overheat, catch fire, or even explode. Reputable manufacturers rely on well-known battery suppliers who provide batteries adhering to strict quality control standards.
The most common cause of hoverboard fires stems from trouble with the battery or charging systems. Lower-quality hoverboards frequently cut corners by utilizing low-cost batteries and cheap chargers that lack the necessary safety features that could prevent your hoverboard from overcharging. When a lithium-ion battery is overcharged, it goes through a thermal runaway. It is a doubtlessly risky chain reaction that results in a fire or explosion. The best kind of hoverboard uses advanced charging systems that have automatic indications when your device has been fully charged. It then ceases the current to prevent the device from overheating and charging excessively.
Manufacturing Regulations And Quality Control
Many of the hoverboards involved in fire incidents come from less reputable manufacturers. They prioritize cutting prices over quality control. As cheap as a hoverboard sounds, it will cost you way more for the damage it causes when it bursts into flames. As a result, these fiery transport devices may have faulty electrical circuits, batteries, or chargers. Consequently, it will render them extra vulnerable to overheating and catching fire.
In response to these hoverboards catching fire, safety specifications for hoverboards have been developed by several standard organizations worldwide. There is a solution to ensure that the electrical drive system, battery, and chargers in your hoverboards are safe to use. The Underwriters Laboratories (UL) in the US established the UL 2272 standard. This standard includes several kinds of stringent evaluations for these components. These tests can include electrical performance assessments, thermal analysis, and stress testing to rule out any safety risks for your amazing hoverboard. Therefore, you need to always look for hoverboards that are UL 2272 certified when making a futuristic purchase and Avoid cheap, off-brand models that may not meet these standards.
Preventive Measures For A Safe Experience
Despite the potential risks associated with hoverboards, there are several precautions you can take to protect yourself and your surroundings.
Firstly, always look to purchase a hoverboard that is UL 2272 certified or adheres to similar safety standards. Steer clear of cheap, off-brand models and accessories that may not meet these standards or give you a safe ride.
Frequently connecting and disconnecting the charger for short periods may disturb the circuit systems inside the machine. Patience is key. Letting the hoverboard charge fully before unplugging it will make it less likely for your device to go up in flames.
Follow the manufacturers’ recommendations for safe charging patterns. Ensure you are charging the device for an adequate amount of time and using suitable voltage outlets for the chargers.
Never change your hoverboard unattended or overnight. Overnight charging may cause the device to overheat and catch fire.
Have you ever noticed your hoverboard heating up while charging? That is probably because the voltage from the outlet is way higher than the charger can handle. It results in the hoverboard eventually heating up. Another reason could be plugging it in at night after zooming around on your board. It then heats up the already-heated device again as soon as you plug it in for charging. To prevent such incidents of overheating:
Suppose you feel the device heating up during use or charging. In that case, stop immediately.
Always cautiously avoid charging the device near flammable objects or direct sunlight. Additionally, make sure the device is kept in a cool and dry place.
Suppose your device has come into contact with water or has been riding in the rain. In that case, you have to be extremely careful when plugging it in for charging, as it may cause a short circuit.
Refrain from charging the board right after use. It might already be too hot. Always wait for the device to cool off before you plug it in.
Keep on top of any updates from the manufacturers about guidelines for your specific hoverboard model. Keep an eye out for any possible problems or safety concerns.
The risk of hoverboards catching fire is largely due to substandard manufacturing, poor quality, and cheap batteries and charging systems. As such, you should be selecting a high-quality, certified hoverboard. Moreover, following safe usage practices advised by manufacturers can significantly reduce the risk of a fire.
No, not all hoverboards are dangerous. Only the ones made with inferior-quality batteries or poor charging systems have a risk of catching fire. High-quality and certified hoverboards are generally considered safe for your use and provide you with a smooth ride.
The key to choosing the safest hoverboard is to look for a UL 2272-certified device or one that complies with similar safety standards. This would ensure that your chosen hoverboard has undergone rigorous evaluations to meet the requirements for your safety. Avoid low-priced hoverboards that may cost you loads of money to fix the damage they may do by catching flames.
Depending on the kind of hoverboard you’re using, the charging duration for the board to fully charge varies. Most hoverboards require a charge for up to 2–3 hours. Read the manufacturer’s provided user manual to make sure you’re charging your hoverboard for an adequate amount of time.
Usually, the batteries in hoverboards cannot be easily replaced by users. It is, however, recommended to contact the manufacturer or a professional technician if you need to replace the battery or if you suspect any issues with it to avoid putting the battery in incorrectly and causing the device to short circuit.
Use the charger with your hoverboard or one approved by the manufacturers for your hoverboard’s particular model. Remember to never let it charge unattended or overnight. Check the user manuals to know the exact period for you to let your hoverboard charge fully.
Final Words
In conclusion, the possibility of hoverboards catching fire might have been raised. However, you can prevent these fires. Through knowledge of the right patterns of charging and relying on manufacturers that prioritize using top-quality batteries, you will prevent more boards from catching fire. All the possible precautions can help you towards a safer future as a hoverboard user and prevent the potential dangers associated with these popular personal transportation devices.
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.
