Summer’s here, and it’s time to take some extra care of your electric scooter! The soaring temperatures can take a toll on the battery and other components of your e-scooter if you don’t take adequate precautions.
In this blog, we will discuss some simple E scooter summer maintenance tips to help enhance performance, safety, and longevity during the sweltering months.
Electric Scooter Summer Maintenance Tips
Protect the Battery from Heat
The lithium-ion batteries that power electric scooters are very sensitive to high temperatures. Exposure to extreme heat can cause faster battery drainage, reduce overall life capacity, and increase the risk of damage or fire.
- Park your e-scooter in a covered parking area or under a tree to protect it from direct sunlight. This could help lower battery temperature by as much as 10-15 degrees Celsius.
- Avoid leaving the battery charging or the scooter sitting unused for long periods in hot areas.
Inspect and Clean Regularly
During summer, clean your e-scooter more thoroughly and frequently to prevent problems.
- Check and adjust tyre pressure once every 1-2 weeks as air pressure fluctuates with seasonal changes. Properly inflated tyres improve stability and prevent wear and tear.
- Check brake pads, cables, belts, bolts, and other components. Adjust and replace any worn-out parts. Clean the braking system to avoid residue build-up.
Modify Usage and Storage
Certain changes in how and where you use and store the e-scooter can make a noticeable difference in maintaining it during summer.
- Reduce needless usage when temperatures peak. Avoid taking short rides and use alternate transport to limit wear and tear during extreme heat.
- Stay away from leaving the scooter unused for over a week when temperatures are very high. Start it up and take it for a short spin periodically.
What Safety Measures Should I Consider When Riding My Electric Scooter In Summer?
When temperatures soar, special care and precautions need to be taken before hopping onto your e-scooter to avoid falls or more severe accidents.
Wear Protective Gear
Wear appropriate protective gear like helmets and knee/elbow pads whenever riding your electric scooter. While safety gear is always advisable, it becomes even more critical during harsh summer riding conditions.
Handle Speed and Turns Carefully
Build up speed gradually after starting on a hot day. Avoid sudden bursts of speed that can compromise stability. High temperatures soften road surfaces and reduce tyre grip. It becomes easier to skid or lose balance, especially while taking a turn.
Stay Hydrated and Plan Your Route
Dehydration impacts focus levels and delays reaction time. Drink adequate water before and during your ride. Take more frequent but short breaks during longer rides to avoid getting exhausted.
Watch the Weather Forecast
Check weather predictions before venturing out, and avoid riding during heat wave warnings when temperatures breach 40 degrees Celsius.
Conclusion
Electric scooters have transformed daily commutes for many with their low running costs and almost negligible maintenance needs. However, taking a few important precautions and being vigilant of the effects of extreme heat goes a long way in keeping your e-scooter running safely and efficiently, even during the scorching Indian summer.
