Vape Battery Safety: A Guide to 18650 and 21700 Batteries
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In This Guide
Vape Battery Safety: A Guide to 18650 and 21700 Batteries
Battery safety is one of the most important parts of vaping. Every vape battery is a lithium-ion cell, and it can either be removed and charged in a dedicated charger or charged inside your device through its USB port. Whichever you use, following a few simple safety steps, alongside the manufacturer's guidance, keeps you and your kit safe.
In this guide, we cover the essentials of using 18650 and 21700 vape batteries safely, from choosing the right cell to charging it properly.
Vape Battery Sizes Explained
The number on a vape battery tells you its size. The first two digits are the diameter in millimetres, the next two are the length, and the final 0 means it is cylindrical.
| Battery | Diameter | Length |
|---|---|---|
| 18350 | 18mm | 35mm |
| 18650 | 18mm | 65mm |
| 20700 | 20mm | 70mm |
| 21700 | 21mm | 70mm |
Choosing a Suitable Vape Battery
A good vape battery always comes with a clear list of specifications, so you can see its capacity, amp rating and size at a glance. Brands popular with vapers include Hohm Tech, Vapcell and Molicel, and their stated ratings are often checked in independent online tests.
Specs to look for
- ✓Continuous discharge rating (CDR), in amps
- ✓Capacity, in mAh
- ✓Size, such as 18650 or 21700
- ✓Nominal voltage
- ✓Discharge end voltage
Checking Your Battery for Damage
Check your batteries regularly. Look for tears in the wrap and for dents or scratches on the battery itself.
Battery wraps
A torn or damaged wrap can expose the metal casing and cause a short circuit. Rewrap the battery straight away, or replace it.
Battery dents
Dents can weaken the battery's structure and increase the risk of venting. Replace a dented battery immediately.
Vape Batteries for Different Devices
When choosing a vape battery, think about the device you will use it in. Mechanical or unregulated devices have no safety features. Regulated devices have a screen and chipset with protection built in. Both have their benefits, and the right battery keeps either one safe.
Mechanical and unregulated mods
Mechanical and unregulated mods have no safety features, so your batteries must be suitable and both the device and batteries well maintained. Make sure your battery's continuous discharge rating can handle the current your build draws, which you can work out with Ohm's law. Pulling more than the battery's limit can lead to overheating or venting.
Extra care on mechs
With no protection on a mech, checking your wraps and looking for dents is even more important. If in doubt, contact our customer service team, who can ask about your kit and recommend a suitable battery.
Regulated mods
A regulated mod, or box mod, has a chipset that gives you more control over how you vape. The chipset sits between your batteries and your tank or RDA, and usually includes protection against short circuits, overheating and excessive current draw.
Even so, it is still important to choose a vape battery with a suitable amp rating. Check your device manual or the manufacturer's recommendations, and see our guide to Ohm's law for more on amp ratings and how they apply to your setup.
Using a Suitable Vape Battery Charger
Invest in a quality charger that suits your battery type. The right charger uses the correct voltage and current, reducing the risk of overcharging or damaging your vape battery. Avoid cheap, generic chargers that are not designed for lithium-ion vape batteries.
Safety features
Look for overcharge, short circuit, reverse polarity and over-current protection.
Adjustable charging speed
Slower charging can help extend battery life, while a faster charge is handy when you need it.
Charging Precautions
Charging safely prevents accidents and helps your batteries last longer. Follow these precautions every time:
Safe charging checklist
- ✓Make sure your charger is compatible with your battery type and size
- ✓Charge on a hard, non-flammable surface, such as a ceramic tile or stone, away from anything combustible
- ✓Charge in a well-ventilated area and never leave charging batteries unattended
- ✓Follow the manufacturer's instructions for both the charger and the batteries
- ✓Remove batteries once they are fully charged
- ✓Stop using any battery that gets unusually hot while charging
Signs Your Vape Battery Needs Replacing
Even a well-cared-for vape battery won't last forever. Replace it and take the old one to a battery recycling point if you notice any of the following:
Time for a new battery
- •Dents, swelling, rust or leaking
- •It gets unusually hot when charging or vaping
- •It drains much faster than it used to
- •It no longer holds a full charge
Everyday Battery Safety
Carry them safely
Never carry loose batteries in a pocket or bag with keys or coins. Always use a battery case.
Avoid the heat
Don't leave batteries or devices in a hot car or in direct sunlight.
Keep pairs together
In a dual-battery mod, use matching batteries and charge them together.
Vape Battery Safety FAQs
What do the numbers on a vape battery mean?
The first two digits are the diameter in millimetres and the next two are the length. The final 0 means the battery is cylindrical. So an 18650 is 18mm wide and 65mm long, and a 21700 is 21mm wide and 70mm long.
Can I use a battery with a torn wrap?
No. A torn wrap can expose the metal casing and cause a short circuit. Rewrap the battery straight away, or replace it if the casing itself is damaged.
Can I charge my vape battery inside my device?
Many devices let you charge through the USB port, but always follow the manufacturer's guidance. For removable batteries, an external charger is usually the safest and most reliable option.
Can I mix batteries in a dual-battery mod?
It is best not to. In a mod that uses two or more batteries, use the same brand and model, bought and used together, and always charge them together so they stay evenly matched.
Conclusion
Check your wraps and look for dents, understand your battery's ratings and use a suitable charger, and you will be well on your way to a safer vape. Looking after your vape battery protects your device and, most importantly, keeps you safe. Happy and safe vaping!
