Hoverboards are the new sensation in the UK and other advanced countries. These two-wheel self-balancing scooters have become a very popular mode of individual transport. They are easy to navigate and fun to ride on.
The biggest hiccup is the propensity of these devices to explode and catch fire! Imagine having your fun and the gadget just explodes on you! Scaring, to say the least! But the truth is that several real cases have been reported of these devices bursting into flames with dire consequences to the jolly riders! Yours too could be no exception. These unfortunate blasts have attracted the attention of British authorities. Understanding why these devices are turning into potential disasters will safeguard you and ensure you get the utmost pleasure from these ingenious technological masterpieces.
Why are They Exploding?
So what is causing all these unwanted explosions of these pretty nice devices as people ride on them? The issue lies with the quality of the rechargeable lithium batteries inside these two-wheeled self-balancing scooters! The cost of cheaper hoverboards compared to the bona fide devices is the underlying factor here.
- Read more: How to spot fake hoverboard
The reputable hoverboard models are pretty expensive for the average shopper. Thus, other more affordable brands are luring shoppers with devices having cheaper components. But are these cheaper brands worth your dime? These low-end brands are flooding the market with shoddy two-wheeled self-balancing scooters that are freaking people out with notorious explosions.
Many overseas factories are making Li-ion batteries of questionable quality compared to other brands such as Samsung or LG. Professional advice comes in handy here. Jay Whitacre, a scholar, and professor of Materials Science & Engineering at Carnegie Mellon University contend that these low-cost Li-ion batteries are not even copies but just mass-manufactured cells! The problem is not just the nature of the cheap batteries but rather the nature of ANY lithium-ion battery!
The separator between the anode and cathode in such batteries may not be aligned correctly and at worse, with the cheaper batteries, there might be holes in the separator. This can cause a short circuit; a perfect precursor of an explosion! Lithium batteries are very popular with manufacturers; they are small but do hold a lot of energy. That is where the risk emanates from. Holding all that energy has its own risks in the name of FIRE!
Battery damage can also be precipitated by other reasons such as a defective charger that can overcharge the cells which is disastrous even to high-quality cells. In a nutshell, beware of cheap hoverboards with cheap low-quality lithium batteries! This category of batteries has the dubious distinction of causing explosions in laptops, smartphones, airplanes, cars and so on! How then do you choose a safe hoverboard?
Prevent Hoverboard from Exploding
Choosing a safe Hoverboard
Your safety takes precedence to anything else. Why compromise your life and limb in the name of low-cost hoverboards. Rule number one; AVOID cheap hoverboards, they are not worth the saving. In fact cheap, in this case, can be very expensive in terms of injuries to you and repairs or replacements of your valued two-wheeled self-balancing scooter! Granted this technology is relatively new. The cost of genuine brands should not put you off; it’s worth your safety. Don’t mind spending some necessary extra bucks to safeguard your well-being! Why not sample some premium quality brands such as Swagway, Razer, Powerboard, Jetson Electric! These are renowned brands that you can confidently bank on!
Be a wise Buyer
As a passionate buyer, check on the guarantees and trading standards as given by the manufacturer and the retailer. These build your confidence in the quality and assurances are given about the hoverboard you are buying!
Where to Buy quality Hoverboards
A retail point that responds to the safety needs of its customers is a friend indeed. Amazon has taken critical steps o safeguard the well-being of its customers. In response to fire safety concerns raised over some hoverboard brands, Amazon took vital steps to safeguard the client, and it banned the sale of the suspect brands from its stores. With Amazon be guaranteed to notch brands for your safety, comfort, and fun.
- Read more: Where to buy quality hoverboards
Summary
For safety concerns and value for your money. Avoid cheap hoverboards, trust in higher quality brands as found at Amazon. Check the warranty offered by the manufacturer before you buy it. Avoid overcharging your hoverboard. Ensure the model has a UL-certified charger or battery pack
With these tips taken care of, you can conveniently enjoy your ride on your two-wheeled self-balancing scooter!