Vape Batteries: Safety and Handling Tips

 Vape Batteries – How to Handle Them Safely

Lithium-ion batteries are used not only in e-cigarettes, but also in laptops, mobile phones, watches and many other electronic devices. Generally speaking, lithium-ion batteries are safe when handled properly. Still, damage, electrical faults and exposure to heat can pose risks.

Vape batteries – what you need to watch out for

If a vape battery is damaged, gases or liquids may leak out, and these can be highly irritating, flammable or even toxic. If a battery shows this kind of damage, dispose of it promptly and properly at a collection point. Repeatedly inserting and removing cells from vape mods can tear the protective wrap at both ends of the battery. If that happens, re-wrap the battery immediately with new battery wrap (available in our shop) or replace it entirely.

An electrical fault – for example, a short circuit caused by an unregulated (mechanical) mod – can lead to overheating and fire. You need to be careful here too: mechanical mods should only be used if you have the necessary technical know-how. Read our guide to mechanical vaping.

Direct sunlight can cause a battery to overheat. When it’s warm outside, never leave batteries or mods in the car or expose them to direct sunlight for extended periods.

Batteries should never be carried loose in your pocket, bag, etc. In the worst case, a short circuit can be caused by other metal objects, such as keys or coins. We also recommend carrying batteries only in suitable protective cases (silicone case, battery case).

Vape batteries and cells – the key differences

Vape batteries are available from a range of manufacturers and in various sizes. In addition to their format, they differ in continuous discharge rating (A), pulse discharge rating (A) and capacity (mAh).

The most widely used format is 18650. 18 stands for 18mm in diameter and 65 for 65mm in length. This naming convention applies to all cells, so a 21700 cell is 21mm in diameter and 70mm long. Alongside 18650 cells, more and more mods now also use 20700 or 21700 cells. A larger cell usually means higher battery capacity (mAh) or a higher discharge rating (A).

We strongly advise against ordering cheap batteries from abroad. What’s on the label isn’t always what’s inside. As a rule of thumb, the higher the battery capacity, the lower the discharge rating. Claims of extremely high battery capacity should therefore set alarm bells ringing straight away.

Important: Please only buy your batteries from a retailer you trust.