Okay, maybe your e-bike battery doesn’t really have feelings. But you can keep it functioning at its best and safest by following these tips.
- Temperature (Think: Goldilocks)
Not too hot: Most of us get cranky when we’re overheated, and your e-bike battery is no exception. When lithium ion batteries overheat, they can become unstable and can even be susceptible to catching fire. (But note that battery fires are rare among new, high-quality batteries like Perfect Fit uses.)
If you’re riding outside in the upper 80s Fahrenheit (30C) or warmer, take special care to let your battery completely cool off in an air conditioned space (NOT your fridge or freezer) before re-charging it.
Not too cold: In chilly temperatures, your e-bike battery may try to channel its inner bear and go into a low-energy state. When very cold, lithium ion batteries temporarily lose some of their usual power and charging ability. Keep this in mind if you are riding in the winter, as you’ll have less range before you need a charge, and cold batteries take longer to charge, too. (But you can always purchase a backup battery from Perfect Fit to bring with you.)
Just right: You like comfortable temperatures, and so does your battery. Store your e-bike battery at room temperature (around 50-80 degrees Fahrenheit or 10-20 degrees Celcius). For safety, keep it away from flammable materials and be aware of heat sources like electronics or direct sunlight. For extra peace of mind, consider picking up a fireproof e-bike battery storage bag.
- Time
Charge Time: Much like you need a specific amount of time to “recharge” to feel your best, your battery does, too. Carefully read and follow the instructions for your specific battery. It is okay to interrupt a charge cycle if your battery just needs a quick power nap, but only use the included charger, and don’t leave your battery on the charger overnight. Keeping the battery charged at 100% can strain the battery over time, a bit like a human chugging caffeine all day every day won’t feel so great after a while 🙋♀️. Try to keep the battery charge between 20% and 80% most of the time to extend the life of your battery.
Long-Term Storage: If you won’t be riding for a few weeks, unplug your battery from your e-bike to be safe from accidental power drain. And, just like it’s uncomfortable for people to sleep when too hungry or too full, your battery also likes to rest with a fullness level somewhere in between.
Charge your battery to about 60% power for optimal long-term storage.
If you leave the battery either full or empty for over 3 months, your battery may fail. And that won’t be covered by its warranty.
- Tampering
Key Lock: Your Lightning e-bike from Perfect Fit comes with a battery key and a spare key. A high-quality battery like yours is expensive, so lock your battery in place on your bike to prevent theft when out and about.
Protect your battery!
Damage: Of course, don’t use your battery if it is swelling or bulging, leaking, inexplicably overheating, cracked, dented, punctured, crushed, water damaged, exposed to fire….
Refurbishing: We all know how important a good specialist is, and your battery knows it, too. Only let a professional do any repairs.
Unprofessional tampering with your battery voids its warranty!