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Several years ago, the Samsung Galaxy Note 7 gained notoriety when its batteries caught fire in a series of incidents. Since then, there has been a steady stream of similar, albeit isolated, incidents. However, despite the high-profile coverage of batteries gone bad, most Li-ion batteries are safe.
The chemical reaction that occurs in a lithium-ion cell is complex, but as in any battery, there is a negative and a positive electrode. In lithium batteries, the negative is a lithium-carbon compound, and the positive is cobalt oxide (although many battery manufacturers are moving away from cobalt). These two compounds cause a reaction that is safe when controlled and provides energy to your devices. When the reaction is out of control though, you end up with the headphones melting in your ears. What changes a safe reaction to an uncontrolled reaction can be any number of things: excessive heat, physical damage during use, physical damage during manufacturing, or using the wrong charger.
The three basic rules that have kept me safe (so far) through testing dozens and dozens of batteries are:
- Avoid cheap cords, chargers and plug adapters.
- Make sure the batteries are not exposed to excessive heat (over 110 degrees Fahrenheit).
- Inspect batteries regularly for signs of damage.
Avoiding cheap adapters, cords and wall chargers is most important. These are your most likely source of problems. Those chargers you see on Amazon for $20 cheaper than the competition? It’s not worth it. They probably lowered the price by discarding the insulation, leaving out the power management tools, and ignoring the basics of electrical safety. Price alone is not a guarantee of safety. Buy from reputable companies and brands.
Then there is the heat. Too much can cause all sorts of problems, both in terms of downloading and in terms of security. Avoid heat, and be careful with your batteries when charging. If your device gets too hot while charging, this may be a sign of problems. Likewise, watch out for any bulging, swollen or otherwise deformed batteries.
