What is a lithium-ion battery?
A lithium-ion battery is a rechargeable battery that holds a long-lasting charge in a compact size. A lithium-ion battery is one “that uses the reversible intercalation of lithium ions (Li+) into electronically conducting solids to store energy. There are wide varieties, which are usually categorized by the materials used in the cathode. [12] Compared to other rechargeable battery types, they generally have higher specific energy, energy density, and energy efficiency, and a longer cycle life and calendar life. In the three decades since Li-ion batteries were first sold in 1991, their volumetric energy density increased threefold while their cost dropped tenfold.” (Source)
What are the specific dangers related to lithium batteries?
The dangers to lithium-ion batteries relate specifically to proper handling and temperature control. They should not be charged or stored above 105 degrees (F) or below 32 degrees (F). When these batteries are stored in a self-storage unit, there is no ability to control the temperature or even know where they are stored within a unit. Lithium batteries can overheat sitting in a cabinet at your home. This overheating can lead to dangerous fires that burn hot and spread quickly.
The danger in a self-storage unit is the lack of supervision or even knowledge of what is stored in a private unit, which is why all self-storage businesses in America prohibit these items from being stored.
What do they look like?
These batteries come in different shapes and sizes. They can power phones and other electronic devices, and they can also power devices like small toys. Think of any rechargeable battery. That is most likely a lithium-ion battery. They range in size from small items like a AA battery to a battery that you use to power your lawn mowing tools.
Where do you find them?
- Smartphones and tablets
- Laptops and e-readers
- Digital and action cameras
- Noise-canceling headphones and wireless earbuds
- Smartwatches and fitness trackers
- Portable power banks
- Electronic cigarettes/vapes
- Electric vehicles (EVs) and hybrid cars
- Electric bikes, e-scooters, and hoverboards
- Golf carts and mobility scooters
- Drones and aerospacecraft
- Cordless power tools (drills, saws, drivers)
- Cordless vacuum cleaners
- Smart home devices and wireless sensors
- Robotic lawn mowers and vacuum cleaners
- Medical monitors and portable health devices
How do I provide clarity to my tenants on things that are dangerous to store in self-storage?
The first step you can take is to educate your new and existing tenants on the dangers of lithium-ion batteries in storage. When a new tenant moves in, take 3-5 minutes to explain what the batteries are and the dangers that exist. Similar to asking them about storing food or other prohibited items, ask if they are planning to store any lithium-ion batteries and then tell them they are banned from storage. Just like food, they pose other dangers to a business.
You can find educational videos and links here at the National Fire Prevention Association. This information can and should be shared with tenants whenever communication is distributed to tenants to remind them of items that are prohibited in storage. At the end of the day, it is difficult to force compliance in self-storage units, but it is necessary to educate and explain in order to protect all tenants and the business itself. Make it clear that any damages incurred from storing prohibited items will result in prompt eviction and legal action as permitted by law.
At Coastal Storage, we partner with our investors to find the best solutions that promote success in the self-storage industry. We find new investment opportunities, we locate new development sites, and we work to ensure business success through consultation with owners and operators.
Call us today at 904-591-0140 to work with our team of self- storage experts.