Using lithium-ion batteries properly

In short: Lithium-ion batteries are in phones, laptops and e-bikes. They last longer if you do not constantly drain them completely or charge them full and do not overheat them.

In more detail: A battery ages with the number of charge cycles and with heat. Ideal charge levels are between about 20 and 80 %. Many devices offer a charge limit (for example 80 %) for continuous operation on mains power.

In Depth

• Heat: More than 35 °C accelerates ageing. Do not leave it in a hot car, do not charge under blankets.
• Cold: Briefly lowers capacity, harms when charging below 0 °C.
• Storage: For longer storage about 40 to 60 % charge, cool and dry.
• Fast charging: practical, creates more heat.
• Swollen batteries: Stop using them, do not press them, hand them in at a collection point.
• Power banks and flying: Power banks belong in hand luggage.
• Battery health: Many systems show the “condition” as a percentage of the original capacity.

See also: E-waste and disposal, Right to repair