Storing and maintaining the e-bike battery correctly
If you look after your e-bike battery properly, you can significantly extend its service life. Storage can also play a role. We explain what you need to look out when caring and storing a bike battery.
Where and how can I store a bike battery?
E-bike batteries (like e-bikes) should be stored in a dry, well-ventilated place. A basement room or garage is ideal. The batteries should not be stored in the immediate vicinity of heat sources such as radiators. Direct sunlight should also be avoided. Make sure that the room has a smoke detector. Small metal objects should also be kept away from the e-bike battery. These include paper clips, coins, keys, nails and screws, for example. These could cause the contacts to be bridged, resulting in a short circuit between the battery contacts.
Should I store my e-bike battery fully charged?
No, a bicycle battery should not be fully charged before being stored for a longer period of time. Charging to approx. 60% is sufficient. Check the charge level again after six months. If it falls below 30%, a “recharge” is recommended. Please do not store an empty bike battery. This is because lithium-ion batteries discharge themselves over time. During prolonged storage, they can become discharged (deep discharge) that they have to be replaced.
Tip: Monitored battery storage in winter with smart charger
There are now intelligent chargers for storing your e-bike battery in winter. These smart chargers automatically monitor the battery for a certain period of time and maintain a constant charge. One of these smart chargers is the ONgineer LiON. This charger offers various charging modes, including the hibernation mode. In hibernation mode, the battery is continuously kept at 50% charge, automatically checked and monitored at regular intervals, which protects the cells and has a positive effect on their service life.
There are ten different connection cables for the ONgineer LiON Smart Charger for different motor systems. For Bosch, Fazua, Brose and many more. These cables are connected separately. The different modes can be customised via a free app that is available for download. Communication between the charger and your smartphone takes place via an NFC chip. According to a test report by eMTB-News.de, this technology works perfectly as long as the smartphone is close to the device.
What is the best temperature for storing a bike battery?
To maximise the service life of your e-Bike battery, storage at room temperature around 20°C is ideal. Please do not store your e-bike (and therefore also the battery) at ambient temperatures below -20°C and above +50°C.
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Do you have further questions about bike batteries? We recommend you take a look at our large e-bike battery FAQ. Here you will find information on range, care, disposal and much more.
Can I store a bike battery in my apartment?
Yes, you can store a bike battery in your apartment. However, you should store it in a well-ventilated, dry place where there is a smoke detector. Easily flammable materials and heat sources should be kept away, as should water or moisture. Keep the bike battery away from children.
Does sunlight affect my e-bike battery?
E-bike batteries can react sensitively to extreme temperatures. Heat increases the internal resistance of the battery. Do not store the e-bike battery in the car in summer and avoid constant temperatures of over 30 degrees. If the e-bike is in direct sunlight, remove the battery and store it somewhere else.
How do I properly care for my e-bike battery?
Just like a “normal” bike, you should also give your e-bike a thorough clean from time to time. Remove the battery before cleaning. You clean the battery separately. Use a slightly damp cloth. Aggressive cleaning agents should not be used as they can attack the surface. A direct jet of water or even high pressure is harmful to the battery.
The battery contacts are important in this context. Clean them carefully with a dry cloth. Before inserting the bike battery, make sure that all contacts are completely dry.
How do I transport an e-bike battery?
Ideally, the battery charge level should be approx. 30 % for longer journeys or transport. Recharge it at your destination. If you are transporting your e-bike with a bike rack, you should remove the battery beforehand and stow it safely in the car. E-bikes can usually be taken on trains without any complications. The battery should remain mounted while travelling. If you are planning to travel by train or bus, you should check the exact transport conditions with the respective service provider. The International Air Transport Association (IATA) has banned the transport of e-bike batteries on passenger aircraft.
Conclusion on the storage of e-bike batteries
To store your e-bike battery correctly, it is important to keep it in a dry, well-ventilated place. Keep flammable materials away and check the charge status. Maintenance is also extremely easy: Keep the contacts clean. This means you are doing something good for your bike battery even when it is not in use.