Consumer News
Are you using the correct charger for your device?
Incorrect charger use exposes weaknesses in the battery and is likely to cause damage.
By using a charger that is too powerful for the device you are charging, it can expose weaknesses in the battery and cause it damage, leading to a shortened life span of the item or in more extreme cases, the battery could fail and pose a fire hazard. For example, e-cigarette batteries generally run on lower amperage to mobile phone chargers. Nationally there has been a rise in fires involving e-cigarettes; the direct cause being due to failure of battery packs during charging.
A spokesperson from Electrical Safety First has commented ‘Always use the charger that is supplied, or designed to be used, with the device. If a charger with a different amperage is used, this could lead to an incorrect charge being supplied resulting in damage to the battery. A damaged battery is at risk of catching fire or exploding. Lithium batteries, which are common in products like e-cigarettes and mobile devices, are very sensitive and need to be charged carefully.’
When charging devices:
- always use the correct charger and follow the manufacturer’s instructions. Mobile phone chargers are generally too powerful for charging e-cigarettes
- never charge a battery that has signs of damage, that has been dropped, or has been subjected to impact
- never plug a charger into a non-approved mains power transformer
- check that your e-cigarette battery has overcharge or overheat protection
- remove the battery from charge when complete, don’t overcharge
- never leave a battery on charge unattended
- don’t use if wet or exposed to water
- E-cigarettes -do not over tighten the atomiser or when connecting to the charger
- ensure that you dispose of batteries correctly
If you require any further assistance please contact Trading Standards on 01534 448160.
With thanks from Trading Standards & Jersey Fire Service
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