Want your e-skate battery to last longer? Here's how:
- Keep charge between 20%-90%: Avoid deep discharges or overcharging.
- Unplug after charging: Don’t leave it plugged in overnight.
- Store at 50-60% charge: Ideal for long-term storage.
- Avoid extreme temperatures: Keep between 50°F-80°F for charging and storage.
- Use the right charger: Stick to Wheelfeet-approved chargers to prevent damage.
- Stop before full drain: Don’t ride until the battery is completely dead.
- Dry before charging: Moisture can damage the battery.
- Clean charging ports: Remove dirt and debris regularly.
- Use regenerative braking wisely: Avoid overcharging on downhill rides.
These simple steps can improve performance and save you from costly battery replacements. Read on for detailed tips!
3 Ways You're Destroying Your Electric Skateboard Battery (& What To Do About It)
Habit 1: Keep Charge Between 20% and 90% for Daily Use
To get the most out of your lithium-ion battery, aim to keep its charge between 20% and 90%. Staying within this range helps reduce stress on the battery cells, which can lead to a longer lifespan and better overall performance.
Letting the charge drop below 20% puts the battery under deep discharge stress, which can make recharging more demanding. On the other hand, charging past 90% can cause voltage stress, speeding up the battery's natural wear and tear.
How to Monitor Your Battery Level
Your Wheelfeet skates make it easy to keep track of your battery. LED indicators on the side panel show your charge level at a glance:
- Four green lights: Above 75%
- Three green lights: Between 50% and 75%
- Two green lights: Between 25% and 50%
- One red light: Below 25%, time to charge!
For a more precise readout, connect your skates to the Wheelfeet mobile app via Bluetooth. The app not only displays the exact battery percentage but also tracks your riding habits. Plus, it can send alerts when your charge approaches the 90% limit while plugged in or dips close to 20% during use.
To stay on top of your charging routine, set a reminder to check your battery a couple of hours after plugging in. For example, if you charge your skates when you get to work, unplugging them around lunchtime can help you stay within the ideal range. Many riders prefer to top off their batteries regularly instead of waiting for them to drain completely. This small habit can go a long way in preserving your battery’s health and ties directly into the next habit - avoiding unsuitable charging conditions.
Habit 2: Don't Leave Skates Plugged in Overnight
It might feel convenient to leave your Wheelfeet skates charging overnight, but doing so can actually harm your battery over time. Once the charger’s green LED lights up, signaling a full charge, it’s best to unplug your skates right away. Letting them stay plugged in longer than necessary puts unnecessary strain on the battery, which can shorten its lifespan.
To make things easier, consider setting a phone alarm or using an outlet timer to cut the power once the battery is fully charged. This way, you don’t have to keep an eye on the charger constantly.
Instead of charging your skates based on your sleep schedule, plan it around your riding needs. Modern lithium-ion batteries don’t have the old “memory effect,” so it’s completely fine to give them a partial charge. By syncing your charging habits with how often you ride, you’ll help keep the battery in good condition for the long haul.
Habit 3: Store at 50-60% Charge for Extended Periods
Taking care of your battery during storage is key to keeping it in good shape over time. If you're planning to store your skates for weeks or even months, paying attention to the charge level can make a big difference. Leaving the battery fully charged or completely drained for long periods can speed up wear and tear on the lithium-ion cells.
The sweet spot for long-term storage is keeping the battery between 50% and 60% charged. This range helps reduce strain on the battery and preserves its capacity while it's not in use.
Before putting your skates away, make sure the charge is within that range. If the battery is fully charged, you can take a short ride or turn the skates on for a bit to bring it down to the target level. On the other hand, if the battery is too low, plug it in for a quick charge to get it up to 50-60%. This small step goes a long way in protecting your battery.
Temperature matters too. Store your skates in a cool, dry place, away from heat sources or direct sunlight, to avoid unnecessary damage.
Monthly Check-ups for Stored Skates
Even when your skates are sitting idle, the battery slowly loses charge. Lithium-ion batteries naturally self-discharge at a rate of about 1-2% per month, even when they're turned off. This means you'll need to check in on them occasionally to keep the charge at the optimal level.
Set a reminder to check your skates once a month. Power them on briefly to see the charge level. If it has dropped below 50%, plug them in for a short charge to bring it back into the 50-60% range. This quick check-up can make a big difference in extending your battery's life.
For added peace of mind, aim to inspect the battery every 6–8 weeks and recharge if needed. This simple habit ensures that your battery stays healthy, even during long storage periods.
Habit 4: Maintain Safe Temperature Ranges
Temperature plays a big role in how well your battery performs and how long it lasts. Lithium-ion batteries, like the ones in your skates, don’t handle extreme heat or cold very well. Pushing them outside their comfort zone can lead to permanent damage or a noticeable drop in lifespan.
Keep your skates away from temperatures above 95°F (35°C) or below 32°F (0°C). High heat can lead to overheating, swelling, or even safety hazards. On the flip side, cold temperatures slow down the battery's chemical reactions, which reduces its capacity and efficiency.
For the best results, aim to charge and store your skates in temperatures between 50°F and 80°F (10°C to 27°C). This range aligns with typical indoor conditions, helping your battery charge more efficiently, hold its charge longer, and last through more cycles.
Where you store your skates matters too. Avoid leaving them in hot spots like garages, car trunks, or near heating vents during summer. In winter, steer clear of unheated areas like basements, garages, or sheds where freezing conditions can occur. If you live in a place with extreme weather, keeping your skates indoors can go a long way in preserving the battery’s health.
Charging After Hot or Cold Rides
After a ride in extreme weather, your battery might not be ready to charge right away. Always let your skates return to room temperature before plugging them in. Depending on how hot or cold they are, this can take anywhere from 30 minutes to an hour.
Charging a battery that’s too hot or too cold stresses its components and can even lead to condensation inside the battery, which is a recipe for trouble. If your skates feel warm after a hot ride, place them in a cool, dry spot and wait until they cool to room temperature. For cold rides, let them warm up naturally in a safe indoor space.
Avoid the temptation to speed up the process by putting your skates near heaters, air conditioners, or in direct sunlight. Sudden temperature changes can be just as harmful as extreme conditions. Taking these steps will help protect your battery and keep it performing well for a long time.
Habit 5: Use Only Wheelfeet-Approved Chargers
Your charger might seem like a simple cable, but it plays a critical role in maintaining your skates' battery health. Choosing the wrong charger is one of the quickest ways to damage your battery or even create a safety hazard.
Every Wheelfeet electric roller skate comes with a charger specifically designed to meet the exact needs of your battery system. This charger provides the precise voltage and current necessary for safe and efficient charging. While third-party chargers may claim to be "universal" or "compatible", they often fail to meet these exact specifications, which can lead to serious risks.
Using non-approved chargers can cause significant problems, including battery damage and even potential fire hazards. These chargers may not deliver the correct power levels, leading to inefficient charging or permanent harm to your battery. Additionally, relying on third-party chargers can void your warranty, leaving you unprotected if something goes wrong. Counterfeit chargers, in particular, are especially dangerous as they often use cheap components and lack proper safety certifications.
If you ever need a replacement or an extra charger, make sure to purchase directly from the official Wheelfeet website or an authorized seller. If you're unsure whether a charger is compatible, you can always verify with Wheelfeet's customer service team at wheelfeet@wheelfeet.com.
Why Stick with Wheelfeet-Approved Chargers?
Wheelfeet-approved chargers are designed to work seamlessly with your skates' battery pack, providing the exact voltage and current needed to keep your battery safe and performing well. On the other hand, non-approved chargers often fail to meet these standards, which can lead to reduced battery life, poor performance, or even safety issues. To protect your investment and ensure long-term reliability, always stick to chargers purchased directly from Wheelfeet or their authorized sellers. It’s a simple step that can make a big difference.
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Habit 6: Stop Riding Before Complete Battery Drain
To keep your e-skate battery in good shape, avoid running it down to zero. Letting the battery fully discharge repeatedly can reduce its overall capacity over time. Instead, aim to stop riding when the charge is around 10–20%. This small reserve works much like keeping some fuel in a car's tank - it helps ensure smoother performance and a longer lifespan for your battery.
Keep an eye on your battery level while riding. Many e-skates come with companion apps that provide detailed insights into battery health and performance - these can be incredibly helpful. If your board supports it, make use of these tools to monitor your battery closely.
Smart route planning can also help conserve energy. Use mapping tools to design routes with flatter terrain and avoid areas with strong headwinds. These tweaks reduce the strain on your battery, helping it last longer. Combined with good charging and storage habits, these strategies will keep your e-skate running smoothly for the long haul.
Habit 7: Dry Skates Before Charging
Taking a few minutes to dry your skates after a ride can go a long way in preventing moisture-related issues and ensuring safe charging.
Water and electricity don’t mix well - moisture can damage internal components and even create safety hazards. That’s why it’s crucial to make sure your skates are completely dry before plugging them in. If you’ve ridden through puddles or in wet conditions, grab a dry cloth and wipe down your skates. Pay extra attention to areas around the charging port and any visible electrical connections. Even small traces of moisture can lead to corrosion or short circuits, which can cause permanent damage to your battery system.
Temperature matters too. If you’ve been riding in cold weather (below 40°F/4°C) or hot conditions (above 85°F/29°C), let your skates return to room temperature before charging. This helps prevent condensation from forming inside the electronics.
To keep things in check, inspect your charging port regularly for moisture or debris. Use a flashlight to get a clear view, and if you spot any water droplets, gently remove them with a cotton swab. Let the area air dry completely before charging. Avoid using compressed air - it might push moisture deeper into the electronics, making things worse.
If your skates are soaked, and your model allows it, consider removing the battery. This gives both the battery and the chassis time to dry thoroughly. Place them in a warm, dry spot with good air circulation, but steer clear of direct heat sources like hair dryers or radiators. Excessive heat can warp plastic parts or damage sensitive components.
To make this habit easier, keep a microfiber cloth handy for quick cleanups after every ride. A little effort now can save you from bigger headaches down the road.
Habit 8: Clean Charging Ports and Connectors
Over time, dirt, dust, and debris can build up in your e-skate's charging port, leading to slow charging, power interruptions, or even complete failure.
Since the charging port remains active even when it's not in use, any contamination can increase the risk of a short circuit that might harm the Battery Management System (BMS). Some users have reported hearing a "loud pop" as a result of short circuits. Keeping your charging port clean ensures safer and more reliable charging.
To clean the port, start with compressed air to blow out loose dirt and debris. Hold the can upright and use short bursts to avoid introducing moisture. For more stubborn grime, a wooden toothpick works well to gently dislodge debris without damaging the delicate contacts. Avoid using metal tools - they can scratch the contacts or cause electrical shorts.
Your charging cable also needs regular care. Check the connector end for signs of corrosion, bent pins, or dirt buildup. A clean toothbrush is perfect for scrubbing away grime from the connector's crevices.
Before every ride, inspect the charging port and cable for any moisture or debris. If you spot any, let them dry thoroughly before use. Steer clear of harsh chemicals like gasoline, acetone, or rubbing alcohol, as these can damage protective coatings, plastic components, or leave residues that interfere with electrical connections. Stick to dry cleaning methods whenever possible.
Adding a quick inspection and cleaning routine to your habits can help prevent charging problems and prolong your battery's lifespan. This simple practice works hand-in-hand with other maintenance habits to keep your battery performing at its best.
Habit 9: Use Regenerative Braking Properly
When it comes to preserving your battery, knowing how to use regenerative braking correctly is key. This energy-saving feature converts the kinetic energy from braking back into electrical energy, giving your battery a boost. But here's the catch: using it the wrong way can harm your battery and other electrical components. For instance, starting a downhill ride with a fully charged battery can leave no room for the extra regenerative energy, which might lead to overvoltage and damage your system. This habit ties directly into earlier tips about charging and storage, ensuring energy is managed efficiently.
"I've seen many cases with broken e-bikes + electrical scooters when using regenerative braking on a fully charged battery." - eikido
Excessive regenerative charging can strain your system. If the Battery Management System (BMS) doesn’t cut off the charge current as it should, the battery cells could suffer damage. On steep descents, heavy regenerative braking can generate a lot of heat, which may degrade components or, in extreme cases, disable electric braking entirely. This could leave you relying solely on mechanical brakes - something you don’t want to do on steep terrain.
To avoid these issues, don’t start rides with a fully charged battery when you know steep downhill sections are ahead. Instead, stop charging at around 80% to leave room for the regenerative energy your battery will absorb.
Planning Routes with Regenerative Braking in Mind
Strategic route planning can help you get the most out of regenerative braking while protecting your battery. Ideally, your battery should be between 70% and 80% charged before starting a downhill stretch. This leaves enough capacity to safely handle the additional energy without hitting dangerous voltage levels. If possible, plan downhill segments after some battery discharge. For routes with multiple hills, monitor your battery level before each descent. If it gets too high, consider taking a flatter path for a while to bring it down.
"If the Controller has a regen voltage limit, then set that to below the point your BMS will shut off for overcharge, so that you don't overcharge the battery and you don't damage the controller." - amberwolf, Staff member
Regenerative braking is most effective at moderate speeds and on gradual descents. On steep, high-speed declines, it can generate more energy than your battery can handle, so always make sure your mechanical brakes are in top condition as a backup. By combining smart route planning with proper charging habits, you can extend your battery’s lifespan and keep your system running smoothly.
Conclusion
Taking care of your Wheelfeet electric roller skates' battery isn’t just about convenience - it’s about making sure your rides stay smooth and reliable for the long haul. By sticking to these nine charging and storage tips, you can significantly extend your battery's lifespan and get the most out of every charge.
Consistency is the real game-changer here. Keeping your charge levels between 20% and 90%, steering clear of overnight charging, and storing your skates at the right temperatures might feel like a hassle at first, but it quickly becomes second nature. And the payoff? Longer rides, fewer battery replacements, and lower maintenance costs.
But battery care doesn’t stop there. Cleaning your charging ports regularly, sticking to Wheelfeet-approved chargers, and understanding how regenerative braking impacts your battery are small steps that make a big difference. These habits not only save you from expensive repairs but also help your skates perform at their best.
When you take the time to maintain your skates properly, you’re protecting your investment and supporting a greener way to get around. With these practices, your skates will stay efficient and reliable for years to come.
Start putting these habits into action today. Your future self - and your wallet - will thank you for the extended battery life and dependable performance of your electric roller skates.
FAQs
Why should I keep my e-skate battery charge between 20% and 90%?
Keeping your e-skate battery charge between 20% and 90% is a smart way to preserve its health and make it last longer. Charging all the way to 100% or letting it drop to 0% puts unnecessary strain on the battery, which can speed up wear and tear over time.
By sticking to this range, you’ll not only enjoy more reliable performance but also save money by delaying the need for a replacement. As a bonus, you’re doing your part for the environment by extending the life of your battery and reducing waste. It’s a simple habit with big benefits!
What’s the best way to store my e-skate battery long-term without causing damage?
To ensure your e-skate battery stays in good condition during long-term storage, keep it charged at around 50%. This helps prevent over-discharge and reduces stress on the battery cells. Store it in a cool, dry place with temperatures ranging from 32°F to 77°F. Steer clear of extreme heat, cold, or humidity, as these can negatively impact the battery’s lifespan.
For storage lasting several months, it’s a good idea to check the charge level occasionally and recharge if needed to avoid deep discharge. Additionally, keep the battery protected from physical damage and store it away from flammable materials to enhance safety.
What could happen if I use a charger that isn’t approved by Wheelfeet for my e-skate?
Using a charger that hasn’t been approved by Wheelfeet can cause major problems. You risk damaging the battery, shortening its lifespan, or even facing serious safety concerns like overheating or fire. Non-approved chargers often fail to regulate voltage properly, which puts extra stress on the battery and increases the chances of it failing.
To keep your e-skate in top shape, stick to chargers that meet safety standards and are specifically built for your device. This not only helps your battery last longer but also ensures better performance and a safer ride.
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