Hoverboards have been the latest craze among children and adults alike since their introduction into the market. However, the safety concerns surrounding them have been a hot topic since some hoverboards have been known to catch fire. If you’re someone who’s curious about Which Hoverboards Are Catching Fire? then this post is for you.
Among the hoverboards that have been known to catch fire, some of the popular brands include Swagway X1, Hovertrax, and Razor Hovertrax. However, it’s essential to note that not all hoverboards from these brands have faced such problems. Most brands have taken steps to improve their product, including replacing the battery packs and improving the quality of wiring. Moreover, hoverboards manufactured after 2016 have to undergo rigorous safety tests, including the requirement of having UL 2272 certification. Let’s explore Which Hoverboards Are Catching Fire?
Reasons Why hoverboards are catching fire
Hoverboards became incredibly popular upon their release, quickly becoming a must-have item for kids and adults alike. Unfortunately, with that popularity came a slew of safety concerns, specifically related to fires caused by hoverboards. Surprisingly, this has led to a huge recall of hoverboards, leaving many people wondering what’s going on.
- Cheap Batteries
Hoverboards rely on rechargeable lithium-ion batteries, which, in the wrong circumstances, can overheat and explode. One problem, in particular, is that many companies manufacturing hoverboards use cheap batteries that are prone to catching fire. Inexpensive batteries may not have gone through the proper quality control processes, resulting in a lack of regulation and a higher risk of fire.
- Too Much Power in Too Small a Space
Hoverboards demand the use of several low-grade battery sources to generate enough power to move the device. As these lithium-ion batteries release excessive heat, there is a high risk of the device overheating or combusting. Compounded by the lack of proper ventilation, a hazardous situation is created by the significant amount of heat being generated within a limited space.
- Charging the Wrong Way
Many hoverboard fires occur because users are charging them the wrong way, such as leaving them plugged in overnight or using third-party chargers rather than the one that came with the hoverboard. This can cause batteries to overheat and, ultimately, explode. It’s important to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for charging, including only using the charger that came with the hoverboard and never leaving it plugged in for an extended period.
- Poor Quality Control
Hoverboards are not regulated, meaning that there is no official safety check before selling them to consumers. Importers and manufacturers of low-quality hoverboards often cut corners on the safety features or choose to ignore them altogether. In this case, the cheaper the hoverboard, the more likely it is that there were issues with the quality control process. Investing in a high-quality brand can help minimize the risk of a fire caused by poorly designed or manufactured components.
- Overuse and Wear & Tear
Hoverboards that are heavily used or have unspecified damage are more likely to cause fires. Over time, the components of the hoverboard, including batteries, can become damaged or wear out, greatly increasing the risk of a fire. It’s important to be aware of the manufacturer’s recommended guidelines for the maximum weight and usage time for each hoverboard to avoid this risk.
- Manufacturing Errors
Lastly, manufacturing errors can also contribute to fires caused by hoverboards. There have been reported cases of batteries or other components being damaged during production, leading to problems down the line. While this is rare, it still can happen and emphasizes the importance of purchasing from a reputable company.
If you already own a hoverboard and are worried about it catching fire, there are a few things you can do to prevent such occurrences. Firstly, make sure that you use the recommended charging cables, and never overcharge the battery. Also, it’s best to charge your hoverboard in an open, well-ventilated area, away from other flammable objects. Lastly, never ride your hoverboard on uneven or wet surfaces, which can result in accidents and fires.
Tips and Warnings
- Only Buy UL-certified Hoverboards
To avoid the risk of hoverboards exploding or catching fire, it’s recommended to purchase models with UL certification. This third-party agency devised standards that enforce safety protocols like preventing explosions from occurring in their designs, specifically the lithium-ion battery and other components. Obtaining a UL-certified hoverboard is the first step to ensuring it’s secure.
- Don’t Leave Fully Charged Hoverboards Idle
Lithium-ion batteries come with a significant downside as they contain flammable materials. A fully charged battery poses a high risk of danger. Therefore, experts advise against leaving a fully charged battery idle for long periods. A general rule of thumb is to drain the battery till it discharges to at least 90% of its charge to avoid risks.
- Store Hoverboards in Cool Spaces
Lithium-ion batteries tend to run hot, particularly after a ride. As a precaution, ensure that your board has proper ventilation, and avoid placing it near flammable surfaces at all times. This will reduce the risk of explosion or fire.
- You Get What You Pay For
It’s important to invest in high-quality tech toys. Although it’s not necessary to purchase the most expensive models available, experts recommend buying hoverboards that cost at least $300. Inexpensive hoverboards are frequently made of cheaper materials, which can cause them to explode. Additionally, if you’d prefer a seated option, you can upgrade your hoverboard to operate like a go-kart using one of the top-quality hoverboard seats available. It’s crucial to note, however, that the installation of a seat may somewhat decrease the hoverboard’s top speed.
- Don’t Be Unnecessarily Rough
UL stress-tests hoverboards to prevent battery explosions. However, users can also contribute to damages. It is important not to purposely damage the scooter, and know how to clean it to prevent debris and dirt buildup.
Conclusion
In conclusion, hoverboards have been a source of joy for many people but come with their own set of risks. If you plan to buy a hoverboard, make sure that it has UL 2272 certification and comes from a reputable manufacturer. It’s also important to follow the safety guidelines while using them to reduce the risk of accidents and fire incidents. We hope that this post answers some of your questions about Which Hoverboards Are Catching Fire? and will help you make an informed decision before buying or using one.
Check out Best hoverboard for kids.
FAQ’s
Q: Is it common for hoverboards to catch on fire?
A: Over several years, numerous instances of hoverboards erupting into flames or exploding have been reported. These events prompted the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) to recall multiple hoverboards due to fire hazards in the past.
Q: Are the hoverboards safe now?
A: Modern hoverboards are safe for both children and adults. However, safety issues have occurred in the past, which means there are risks when riding one of these boards. It is crucial to understand how to properly ride your hoverboard safely to avoid unnecessary incidents.
Q: What is the safest brand of hoverboard?
A: Some of the well-known brands that design high-quality hoverboards and self-balancing devices include Segway Ninebot, Razor, and Onewheel. These brands offer UL-certified hoverboards that comply with safety standards. However, since there’s no universally “best” hoverboard brand, it’s essential to do your research and pick the one that best suits your needs and budget.
Q: Which hoverboard does not explode?
A: A hoverboard with a UL test mark ensures battery safety, avoiding any possibilities of explosions.