How do I avoid a battery fire?

When charging an e-bike battery, chemical processes are released. This process should therefore always be carried out under supervision and with the appropriate respect. Even if we are now sensitized and deal with the charging process of our batteries as a matter of course, malfunctions can occur that could cause a fire.

Tips for correct battery charging to avoid a fire:

1. Do not charge battery in the home, but in the garage.
2. Do not leave battery unattended.
3. Once the battery is charged, disconnect it from the mains.
4. If the battery is stored for a longer period of time, the battery charge should be at approx. 40 – 70 percent. The charge level can be checked every 12 weeks to prevent deep discharge.
5. Always charge batteries at room temperature.
6. Always use the original charger from the manufacturer.
7. Always store the battery under normal temperatures and in a dry environment.
8. Avoid deep discharge.
9. Do not use damaged batteries, and replace them.
10. Store in a fire-proof environment. If a fire should occur, the fire will not spread as quickly.
11. Do not extinguish the fire with water. Always use sand or a fireproof blanket. Extinguishing agents such as ABC or BC powder are not suitable.
12. Have a fire extinguisher with a high cooling effect or a fire blanket ready.

When does my insurance cover a battery fire?

The battery catches fire in your own home:

In this case, the homeowner’s insurance will pay for the damage. The household insurance takes care of the damage to the bike. It is important that the e-bike is included in the household insurance.

The battery burns at a friend’s house:

Your own household insurance will take care of the damage to your own bike, but the damage to someone else’s building can only be covered by liability insurance. In the case of S-pedelecs (over 25 km/h) with license plates, the damage is covered by partial coverage insurance.

The battery burns at the workplace or in a rented apartment/holiday home:

Here only a private liability insurance helps. The damage to the bike is again covered by the household insurance, if the bike is included. The damage caused by the fire will be settled by the homeowners insurance or the household insurance of the injured party. The latter will usually claim back the damage payments made from the owner of the battery or from the manufacturer of the battery.

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