From phones and laptops to household staples such as vacuum cleaners, lawn mowers and snow blowers, we have come to love the convenience of rechargeable devices. Technology has also enabled the use of lithium-ion batteries for cars, ebikes, escooters and other mobility aids for energy efficient and environmentally friendly ways to get us to where we need to go.
With more motorists switching to rechargeable electric vehicles, we also see more homes installing EV charging stations. A charging station is similar to a high voltage appliance such as a clothes dryer or a stove and installing one is more complicated than adding a regular electric outlet. And with more complex usage come more complex risks that we need to be aware of.
What are the risks
Lithium-ion batteries are generally safe, but when they are misused, they can overheat and cause fire. These fires are usually characterized as ‘quick and violent’ and difficult to extinguish.
- The primary concern is ‘thermal runaway’ which is an uncontrolled reaction within battery cells that can lead to fire.
- Thermal runaway may also cause rapid gas release which can result in an explosion.
- The failure of a battery system may also result in environmental hazards such as smoke and toxic gas exposure, causing damage to property, HVAC systems and health.
- The system itself may experience software issues or hardware failures that could lead to downtime or damage.
Lithium-ion batteries and insurance
Ebikes and escooters are usually covered under a home, condo or tenant policy as it is considered part of your personal property (contents). If your ebike or escooter was damaged by fire caused by the battery, which in turn caused damage to the property of others, your property policy will respond to the claim.
Electric vehicles are covered under an auto insurance policy, just like a regular automobile. If your car was damaged by fire caused by the battery, your auto insurance policy will respond to the claim.
The EV charging station that is installed in your home is considered part of your home’s contents and is covered by your personal property policy. If your home is damaged by fire caused by the battery, which in turn caused damage to the property of others, your property policy will respond to the claim.
What you need to know before installing an EV charging station
Read your property insurance policy: Some policies may or may not cover charging stations, and some may require additional coverage such as Equipment Breakdown or Liability. Most insurance companies will require that the charging stations be installed by a licensed electrician with certified equipment. Make sure to speak with your insurance broker to learn about your coverage and insurance requirements.
Permit and certification: In Ontario, you need a permit from the Electrical Safety Authority before starting and only a licensed electrician is allowed to do the installation. Learn more here.
Certified equipment: Confirm that the equipment to be installed is certified for use in Canada.
Proper use and handling of lithium-ion batteries
The Government of Canada outlines many tips for the proper use, handling and storage of batteries for devices large and small. Here are some:
- Don’t use batteries that are dented, swollen, have torn wrappers or any other signs of damage or wear.
- Store batteries at room temperature in a dry location. Do not leave them out in the sun and cold.
- Always charge batteries at room temperature where you can see it, and away from exit doors.
- Use the charger that came with your device. Never modify or tamper with batteries. If you need a replacement charger, make sure to buy from a trusted source that have a recognized certification mark such as CSA, cUL or cETL.
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