How To Use Power Bank Safely How To Use Power Bank Safely

How To Use Power Bank Safely

28th, January 2025

We've all been there. Your phone's battery is about to die, and you're far from an outlet. That's where Power Banks come to the rescue. They keep your mobile devices, laptops, and more charged when you need them most. However, their rising popularity also gives rise to concerns about their safety.

In this blog, we'll cover everything you need to know about using your Power Bank safely. From avoiding common mistakes to picking the best Power Bank for you, this guide will help you stay safe and stay charged.

What is a Power Bank?

A Power Bank is a portable charging device that stores energy and transfers it to your gadgets when needed. It works by first drawing power from an external source, like a wall outlet or USB port, which is converted into chemical energy and stored in an internal rechargeable battery. This battery is usually made of lithium polymer or lithium-ion, which is highly flammable.

When you connect a device to the Power Bank, the stored chemical energy is converted back into usable electricity. A smart little circuit inside makes sure the energy flows safely and steadily to your device. This process allows the Power Bank to act as a temporary, portable power source for phones, tablets, and other electronics.

Why Safe Charging Matters

We all rely heavily on our electronic devices—phones, tablets, laptops—and Power Banks have become essential accessories to keep them juiced up. But it’s crucial to remember that these convenient gadgets can pose risks if not used correctly.
Unsafe charging can damage your devices and even put you at risk. One of the biggest risks is a short circuit. This occurs when electricity flows through an unintended path, often causing excessive heat and potentially leading to fires.

Another common issue is battery degradation. Overcharging, undercharging, or using a Power Bank with insufficient wattage can shorten your device’s battery lifespan and reduce its performance. Underpowering the battery forces it to work harder to draw the required current, which can increase heat generation and put strain on the internal components over time.

Ideally, batteries should be kept between 20% and 80% charged to help them last longer.

Plus, an overheated battery pack or a short circuit can cause burns or even a full-blown fire. Scary, right? But here's the thing: these incidents happen more often than you might think, all due to unsafe practices. That’s why Cygnett Power Banks have thermal cut-offs to prevent this. It’s a safety mechanism that stops the device from operating if it gets too hot. 

With all these, you can see why it’s so important to understand how to use your Power Bank safely to keep both your devices and yourself out of harm's way. 

Common Causes of Power Banks Incidents

Accidents involving Power Banks are usually the result of improper use, which include:

1. Overcharging: Many people leave their devices connected for too long, even after they reach full capacity. This puts strain on both the Power Bank and your device, often leading to overheating.

2. Mishandling: Dropping your Power Bank or subjecting it to rough handling can damage its internal circuitry, leading to malfunctions. This increases the risk of short circuits or even fires.

3. Excessive Heat: Leaving a Power Bank in direct sunlight or using it in a hot environment can cause it to overheat, which sometimes can lead to dangerous fires.

4. Dust/Debris in the Ports: Dirt, lint, or small debris can accumulate in the Power Bank’s charging ports. Over time, this debris may corrode the metal contacts, affecting performance or leading to a complete failure. This can also obstruct connections, cause overheating, and even explosions.

5. Using Incompatible Cables or Chargers: Charging with incompatible cables or adapters can cause voltage fluctuations. These fluctuations may overload the Power Bank’s internal components, increasing the risk of overheating, fire, or permanent damage.

Poorly designed circuitry, like those in low-quality Power Banks, can also increase the risk of short circuits, which can lead to overheating and fires.

Choosing the Right Power Bank

The first step to keeping your gadgets (and yourself!) safe is choosing the right Power Bank. A good Power Bank not only charges your devices efficiently but is also built with safety in mind. Here are some things to keep in mind when choosing one:

1. Battery Capacity (mAh): If you need to charge a laptop, go for a laptop Power Bank, which usually offers above 20,000mAh. For mobile phones, 10,000mAh should be enough for about two full charges, but keep in mind that higher capacities can increase the risk of overheating if not used properly.

2. Charging Ports: Different devices require different ports. Older devices typically use USB-A cables, while older Apple devices use a Lightning cable. While newer smartphones, including the latest iPhones, use USB-C cables. So consider your devices when picking a Power Bank. Many Cygnett Power Banks have both USB-C and USB-A ports, giving you more options. They also have built-in safety features to prevent overloading.

3. Wattage: Wattage refers to how fast your Power Bank can charge your devices. It's important to consider this because a high-wattage Power Bank delivering too much power to a device not designed to handle it may cause overheating. Similarly, using a low-wattage Power Bank with a high-demand device can strain the Power Bank, causing it to overheat and potentially fail. Using the wrong wattage can also degrade your device's battery over time, shortening its lifespan. The typical wattage for phones is anywhere between 5-20 watts. Though most modern smartphones support fast charging, with wattages ranging from 15W to 30W or higher. Laptops and other larger devices typically require more power, ranging from 30W to 100W for standard models. Check your phones and laptops to make sure you’re using the correct wattage.

4. Quality and Compatibility: Make sure your Power Bank is compatible with your devices. Brands like Cygnett offer certified options that work seamlessly with both Apple and Android devices, and our products are designed with safety in mind.

5. Safety Certifications: High-quality brands like Cygnett follow international safety standards, such as overcharge protection, overheat protection, and short-circuit prevention. Always check for certifications before buying.

6. Portability: Think about whether you need something compact or if a larger Power Bank works for you. If you have multiple devices, opt for high-capacity options like our VertPWR Laptop Power Bank 25K. If you’re looking for something that can easily slip into your bag, portable Power Banks like Cygnett’s Boost 4th Gen are great for travelling light. Plus, it boasts several safety features to protect you and your devices.

Recognising and Avoiding Substandard Power Banks

The market is full of substandard Power Banks, and they can be dangerous. These cheap portable chargers often lack safety features and can easily malfunction. Here’s how to spot a substandard Power Bank:

1. Build Quality: A high-quality Power Bank feels sturdy with no loose parts. If it feels cheap, it probably is.

2. Certifications: Look for product safety certifications, such as Conformité Européenne, Federal Communications Commission, RoHS (Restriction of Hazardous Substances), UK Conformity Assessed, and especially the Regulatory Compliance Mark, which indicates the Power Bank has been tested to Australian standards. No labels? It’s a red flag.

3. Warranty: High-quality Power Banks offer a comprehensive warranty. Cygnett Power Banks, for instance, come with a 2-year warranty. If there's no warranty, it’s best to avoid that product.

This is why opting for a trusted brand is crucial. Cygnett Power Banks are designed with safety in mind, featuring protection against overcharging, overheating, and short circuits. Plus, they meet international safety standards, making them a reliable choice.

Recognising and Avoiding Substandard Power Banks

The market is full of substandard Power Banks, and they can be dangerous. These cheap portable chargers often lack safety features and can easily malfunction. Here’s how to spot a substandard Power Bank:

  • Build Quality: A high-quality Power Bank feels sturdy with no loose parts. If it feels cheap, it probably is.

  • Certifications: Look for product safety certifications, such as  (Conformité Européenne),  (Federal Communications Commission), RoHS (Restriction of Hazardous Substances), (UK Conformity Assessed), and especially the (Regulatory Compliance Mark), which indicates the Power Bank has been tested to Australian standards. No labels? It’s a red flag.

  • Warranty: High-quality Power Banks offer a comprehensive warranty. Cygnett Power Banks, for instance, come with a 2-year warranty. If there's no warranty, it’s best to avoid that product.

This is why opting for a trusted brand is crucial. Cygnett Power Banks are designed with safety in mind, featuring protection against overcharging, overheating, and short circuits. Plus, they meet international safety standards, making them a reliable choice

Power Bank Safety Tips for Everyday Use

If you use your Power Bank daily, it’s important to keep safety in mind. Here are some tips:

1. Follow the Manufacturer’s Instructions: Most Power Banks come with safety use instructions. Make sure to follow them carefully to avoid misuse or damage.

2. Monitor Charging Status: Avoid charging overnight and disconnect once your device is fully charged. Overcharging can reduce your Power Bank’s battery life and cause overheating.

3. Store Properly: Keep your Power Bank in a cool, dry place away from heat sources, direct sunlight, combustible gas, or metal objects that could cause a short circuit, especially for wireless charging devices. Also, avoid storing it in dusty areas, as debris can accumulate in the charging ports, leading to poor connections or potential damage.

4. Avoid Moisture: Never let your Power Bank get wet. Water and electronics are a dangerous mix.

5. Use the Right Charger and Cable: Always use chargers and cables with the correct wattage as specified by the Power Bank manufacturer. Using a charger with the wrong wattage can cause voltage fluctuations, which may overheat or damage the Power Bank.

6. Don’t Use Power Banks While Charging: Unless your Power Bank has a pass-through charging feature, don’t use it while it’s charging. Let it fully charge before you use it to power other devices.

7. Inspect Regularly: Conduct regular inspections of your Power Bank. Look for any visible damage, such as cracks, bulges, or fraying around the ports. Don’t forget to check the ports for any dirt and debris that can block and short circuit the ports. If anything looks off, it's better to replace it.

8. Avoid Placing Heavy Objects on the Power Bank: Pressure can damage internal components, leading to potential failure or overheating. Always keep the Power Bank away from heavy items.

9. Avoid Damaged Power Banks: Don’t use a Power Bank that’s broken, damaged, dropped, or has been in contact with liquids. It’s safer to replace it.

10. Avoid Damaged Charging Accessories: Steer clear of using damaged or faulty cables and accessories. They can create safety hazards.

11. Avoid Bending or Twisting Cables: Do not bend or twist charging cords and cables sharply. Repeated bending can weaken the internal wires, leading to damage, loss of functionality, or potential short circuits.

12. Prevent Battery Over-Discharge: Don’t use a Power Bank that’s completely out of power. It can lead to battery bulging or damage.

13. Keep Away from Fire and Water: Avoid throwing the Power Bank into fire or water. This could cause it to malfunction or explode.

14. Don’t Dismantle or Disassemble: Never attempt to open, dismantle or repair your Power Bank yourself. The internal battery and circuitry are sensitive components, and tampering with them can cause short circuits, battery leakage, or even fires.

15. Supervise Children and Pets: Make sure kids (and pets!) don’t treat the Power Bank as a toy. It’s not designed for play.

16. Charge in a Safe Spot: Use a cool, shaded, and ventilated area for charging. Avoid flammable surfaces like blankets, pillows, cushions, the couch, the bed, and inside a bag.

17. No Tampering: Avoid painting, poking, or burning the Power Bank. These actions can damage it and create safety risks.

Staying Safe While Travelling with Your Power Bank

Travelling with a Power Bank? Here’s how to stay safe:

1. Avoid Direct Sunlight: Don’t leave your Power Bank in direct sunlight or in extremely high temperatures, like the inside of your car. Excessive heat can cause the internal battery to overheat, swell, or even explode, which can result in fires or serious damage.

2. Carry-On Only: Always pack your airline-approved Power Bank in your carry-on luggage. Airlines don’t allow them in checked baggage.

3. Check Capacity: Make sure your Power Bank complies with airline regulations regarding capacity. Most airlines in Australia only allow you to carry up to 99.9 watt-hours, which is approximately a 27,000mAh Power Bank. But no worries. Cygnett has plenty of options that comply with airline requirements, including wired and magnetic wireless options.

4. Don’t Use While Charging: Resist the urge to use the Power Bank while it’s recharging itself. Give it a break.

5. Check Voltage: Some countries have different standard household voltages. In Australia and many other countries, power supply sources use 230V, while in the United States, 120V is the standard. Using a Power Bank in a country with a different voltage standard may affect its performance or safety. So, make sure your Power Bank and chargers are compatible with the local voltage to avoid any issues. 

Using Power Banks Safely During Natural Disasters

Australia faces various natural disasters like bushfires, floods, and cyclones, where having a charged Power Bank can be crucial. But using your Power Bank during these times can also be risky. Here’s how to use one safely:

1. Keep It Charged: Make sure your Power Bank is fully charged before any emergency.

2. Avoid Heat and Water: Keep it away from direct sunlight and water sources to avoid damage. If you must use your Power Bank in wet conditions, ensure it's properly protected in a waterproof case or bag.

3. Avoid Overloading: Charge only essential devices. Overloading the Power Bank with multiple devices may shorten its usage time or cause it to overheat.

4. Avoid Charging During Storms: Do not charge the Power Bank while connected to the main power source during lightning storms to prevent electrical surges.

Spotting Early Warning Signs

Failing Power Banks can pose lots of safety risks. So, always keep an eye out for these signs to avoid potential dangers:

1. Visible Swelling: If your Power Bank looks bloated, replace it.

2. Unusual Heat: If it gets unusually hot, even when not in use, stop using it.

3. Charging Issues: If your devices take too long to charge, it might be a sign the Power Bank is failing.

4. Odd Smell: If you notice a burning smell or anything unusual coming from your Power Bank, stop using it immediately.

5. Cracks: Visible cracks or splits can expose internal components to dust, moisture, or debris, increasing the risk of short circuits and other safety hazards.

How to Keep Your Power Bank in Top Shape

Want to extend your Power Bank’s life? Here are some tips:

1. Charge Regularly: Don’t leave it uncharged for extended periods. Battery capacities can deteriorate when left uncharged for too long.

2. Avoid Full Discharges: Try not to let it run down to zero. Keep it above 20% if possible.
Use Quality Accessories: Only use good-quality cables and adapters to avoid damage.

3. Avoid Extreme Cold: Just like heat, extremely cold temperatures can damage your Power Bank. Store it in moderate conditions.

When to Replace Your Power Bank

Ideally, Power Banks should be replaced every 2 to 3 years or sooner if you notice signs of damage or performance issues. However, this still depends on handling, usage, and how the battery has been charged or discharged. Here are some signs that you need a new one:

1. Swollen Batteries: If the Power Bank is swollen, the batteries are likely failing.

2. Reduced Battery Life: If it doesn’t hold charge as long as it used to or can’t fully charge your device anymore.

3. Visible Damage: Any visible damage means it’s time for a replacement.

4. Unusual Smells or Sounds: If you notice any odd smells or hear strange noises, it’s time for a new Power Bank.

How to Safely Dispose of Old Power Banks

Improper disposal of Power Banks, especially those containing lithium-ion or lithium polymer batteries, can be dangerous. If these batteries are punctured or exposed to high heat, they can catch fire or even explode. Lithium-ion batteries contain flammable electrolyte, and mishandling can lead to leakage of harmful chemicals or even cause environmental damage. 

So, when disposing of old Power Banks, make sure to follow local e-waste guidelines and:

1. Check for Recycling Options: Look for e-waste recycling programs like Recycle Mate or B-Cycle. Recycle whenever possible to promote sustainability.

2. Find a Drop-Off Point: Many electronics stores, battery retailers, or council waste management facilities have battery recycling bins. Use recycling directories or check your local council’s website.

3. Discharge the Battery: Use the Power Bank until it's completely out of charge to minimise risks of leakage or fire. 

4. Pack the Power Bank Safely: Wrap the Power Bank in a non-conductive material, such as paper or tape, to prevent short circuits. Avoid exposing it to heat or direct sunlight during transport. If the battery is swollen, leaking, or damaged, place it in a fireproof container. Do not wrap multiple Power Banks together, especially if the batteries are exposed, as this can increase the risk of overheating or explosion during transit.

5. Avoid General Waste Bins: Never throw Power Banks in household bins or hard waste collections. They can cause fires in landfills or harm the environment due to toxic components.

Protect Your Gadgets and Yourself

Safety should always be a priority when it comes to using Power Banks. By choosing a high-quality Power Bank, following best practices, and staying informed, you can protect both your gadgets and yourself from potential risks. Remember, a little care goes a long way in preventing mishaps.

If you’re ready to upgrade your Power Bank to something more reliable and safer, explore Cygnett’s range of Power Banks. With built-in safety features and a proven track record, they are an excellent choice to keep your devices charged and secure.

FAQ

Warranty

Cygnett’s warranty extends to purchases made at authorised retailers, to claim please contact your original place of purchase. 

All Cygnett products include a 2-year warranty, with the exception of the 5-year warranty for Armoured cables.

Shipping

Once your order has been placed it will leave our warehouse within 1-2 business days. You will be notified of this via email.

Returns

Cygnett accepts returns within 30 days of purchase on items purchased from cygnett.com.

To be eligible for a return, your item must be unused and unopened in the original packaging.

Cygnett Care

For any additional enquiries, you can find more FAQs, or get in touch with our customer service team through the "Support" button on our web banner.

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