How to take ‘proper’ care of your power bank

People carry power banks daily to charge their smartphones and other gadgets on the go. They’re a great option when a charger isn’t readily available. Often, though, they are not given the care and attention they need compared to other devices.

Most power banks rely on lithium-ion batteries, which store energy through chemical reactions. However, if mishandled or damaged, they can pose risks like fires or chemical burns.

This article will explain how to take care of your power bank, prolong its life span and spot warning signs of damage.

How to spot a damaged power bank

• Swelling or Bulging: If your power bank looks puffed up or deformed, the battery inside is likely producing gas due to chemical breakdown.
• Overheating: It’s normal for a power bank to get slightly warm during use, but if it’s too hot to touch, it may malfunction. Excessive or constant heating could indicate that your power bank is damaged.
• Strange Smells or Leaks: Chemical odours or liquid leaking from the power bank indicates internal damage. These leaks contain harmful substances that can cause burns or fires. If you notice a leak, handle the battery with care and avoid touching the battery or leaking directly.
• Physical Damage: Cracks, or punctures from drops can harm the battery’s internal structure, by exposing important components to the atmosphere which could result in explosions
• Poor Performance: If your power bank charges slowly, doesn’t charge, at all or fails to power devices, it may be degrading. If you notice this, it’s time to get a new power bank.

How to prolong power bank lifespan

Proper care can extend your power bank’s life and reduce risks. Lithium-ion batteries typically last 2-3 years or 300-500 charge cycles.

• Use Quality Cables and Chargers: Always use the cable that comes with your power bank or one from a trusted brand. Cheap cables can cause irregular voltage, leading to overheating.
• Avoid Overcharging: Don’t leave your power bank plugged in overnight. While modern power banks have overcharge protection, prolonged charging can stress the battery. Many safety guides recommend unplugging your power bank once fully charged.
• Keep away from heat: Store your power bank in a dry, well-ventilated place away from heat sources like direct sunlight or heat. Extreme temperatures can degrade your power bank battery.
• Handle with Care: Avoid dropping or crushing your power bank, as physical damage can cause internal short circuits.

These steps help maintain the battery’s health and minimize safety risks.

What to do when your power bank is damaged

If your power bank shows signs of damage, act quickly and safely:

• Stop Using It: Unplug the power bank and stop using it immediately. If it’s overheating or leaking, place it in a non-flammable area, like a concrete surface, away from anything that can catch fire.
• Don’t Self-Repair: A swollen or damaged power bank can’t be fixed. Puncturing or opening it can release toxic gases or cause a fire.
• Warranty: If under warranty, take photos of the damage and contact the manufacturer for a potential replacement before disposal.

By following these steps, you protect yourself, your devices, and the environment.