What Not to Store in Self-Storage: Protecting Against Lithium-Ion Battery Risks
There are a lot of things you can store inside a self-storage unit, and individuals and businesses utilize it for a myriad of reasons. It is ideal for downsizing, as you can keep the things you value while making space at home to live. Small seasonal businesses can keep equipment and inventory in a safe place in the town where they conduct their business.
There are also some things that you should not put into self-storage, and with the rise of fire-related incidents from lithium-ion batteries, these are just some of them. Lithium-ion batteries are increasing in use since the number of electric vehicles, scooters, and bikes is also increasing. With the rise of usage comes the rise of incidents that you should be prepared for. In this post, we will cover the basics of lithium-ion batteries and alternatives for storing them.
Understanding Lithium-Ion Batteries
Lithium-ion batteries are an essential type of rechargeable battery that is used in a wide range of devices, such as laptops, smartphones, and electric vehicles. Despite their usefulness, lithium-ion batteries come with some risks. One of the most significant risks is overheating, which can cause the battery to swell and potentially catch fire. This can be caused by physical damage to the battery, overcharging, or exposure to high temperatures. Fire-related incidents serve as a reminder of the importance of proper storage and handling of lithium-ion batteries to prevent potential damage or harm.
Risks of Storing Lithium-Ion Batteries in Self-Storage
When it comes to storing lithium-ion batteries, self-storage units can pose unique risks. One of the main concerns is that these facilities often lack the climate control necessary for safe battery storage. Lithium-ion batteries are sensitive to temperature changes and can be dangerous if exposed to extreme heat or cold. It is important to carefully consider the potential risks before storing lithium-ion batteries in a self-storage unit.
What Not to Store in Self-Storage
If you are considering using a self-storage unit, it’s important to know what items you should not store there. Avoid storing lithium-ion batteries. These batteries have the potential to overheat and even catch fire, which could lead to serious safety risks. You should avoid storing any flammable or combustible materials in a self-storage unit. This includes items like gasoline, propane, or fireworks, which can easily ignite and cause a fire.
Avoid storing perishable goods in a self-storage unit. This includes food, plants, or other items that can spoil or rot over time. Not only can this create a strong odor, but it can also attract pests and rodents. Hazardous chemicals should never be stored in a self-storage unit. These chemicals can be harmful to the environment and pose serious health risks to those who come into contact with them.
Alternatives to Self-Storage for Lithium-Ion Batteries
To ensure the safety of lithium-ion batteries, it’s crucial to store them properly. There are several options for storing these batteries, and it’s important to keep in mind the specific storage conditions that they require.
At home, it’s recommended to store lithium-ion batteries in a cool and dry place. This could be a designated area in your home where the temperature and moisture levels are controlled. Another option is battery-specific storage containers or bags. These containers are designed to maintain the correct temperature and prevent any damage that could occur from exposure to moisture or other environmental factors.
Dispose of old or damaged batteries appropriately. Designated collection points for recycling should be utilized to ensure that these batteries are disposed of safely. This helps to prevent environmental damage and also protects individuals from potential harm.
Purchase Property Protection
The best measures you can take before storing your belongings in self-storage are preventative ones. Before moving into your storage unit, ensure you have the proper protection for your property by purchasing protection plans from Tenant Property Protection®. By following the necessary precautions, you will ensure that your belongings are protected for a long time, with the peace of mind of knowing that should anything go wrong, we’ve got your back. Get in touch with us today to protect your possessions.