Mar 22, 2023

When switching to heat-not-burn products such as tobacco heating devices or e-cigarettes such as vapes, there are a few changes you'll need to be aware of, such as the need to maintain and charge these devices. Charging a tobacco heating device or vapes may feel unusual at first, and it might also raise questions about safety, particularly battery safety.

 

Different safety measures apply to different heat-not-burn devices, as tobacco heating devices and vapes function differently. For instance, a tobacco heating device heats real tobacco within a specific temperature range to prevent it from burning, while e-cigarettes like vape devices transform e-liquid into vapor for inhalation and because of these functions, they are built with unique battery specifications. Furthermore, e-cigarettes of non-nicotine substance have different SIRIM certification and markings under the SIRIM MS2716:2019 based on the TRADE DESCRIPTIONS(CERTIFICATION AND MARKING OF ELECTRONIC CIGARETTE DEVICE) ORDER 2022. On the other hand, heat-not- burn device is not tested and marked under the said marking and is not categorized as e-cigarette. In this article, we will be addressing heat-not-burn/vapes/e-cigarette devices battery safety.

 

It’s important to note, when discussing heat-not-burn/vapes/e-cigarettes that these devices are not risk-free. Heat-not-burn such as tobacco heating device heats tobacco while most vapes/e-cigarettes heats liquids that contain nicotine like combustible cigarettes without tobacco, which are addictive. Without question, the best decision any smoker can make is to quit tobacco and nicotine use altogether. For those who would otherwise continue to smoke or use other nicotine products, switching to a smoke-free alternative such as a heat-not-burn or e-cigarette such as vapes may be a better option than continued smoking.

The importance of looking after your devices’ battery whether heat-not-burn or e-cigarette cannot be understated when it comes to your devices’ safety. A vast majority of tobacco heating devices and vapes use either external, or internal, rechargeable batteries that ranges from lithium-ion, lithium-polymer to nickel-cadmium batteries. Larger vapes/e-cigarettes often have external batteries that need to be replaced over time. Smaller vapes/e-cigarettes typically use an integrated battery - a convenient practice that then only requires the device’s USB charger to keep it powered up. Heat-not-burn such as tobacco heating devices uses built-in lithium-ion battery. No matter the battery type, one crucial factor in maintaining your device should be the smart practice of the devices’ battery safety measures.

 

 

Why Do Device Safety Issues Occur?

 

Safety issues with tobacco heating devices and vapes/e-cigarettes often occur due to neglect of device care and maintenance. Here are some suggested steps to help ensure the safety of your device:

• Regularly check for damage - don’t be afraid to report any problems with your device to the provider. If left unchecked, minor internal damage can cause more significant problems. Device malfunctions can start with an easily fixable issue.
• Only use the supplied USB charger - it may be tempting and convenient to use an alternative charger, but this may damage your device over time. An incompatible charger is a common cause of battery damage in tobacco heating devices and vapes/e-cigarettes.
• Monitor and replace your battery regularly - old batteries are more likely to malfunction and cause damage. An old battery is a potential hazard, and it’s easy to replace your vape’s batteries when the time comes. For tobacco heating devices, it is recommended to get a replacement device after 2 years of usage.
• Avoid plugging your device into a laptop and choose the mains instead - on the face of it, this might seem like a convenient idea. However, laptops aren’t designed to act as a charger port for your tobacco heating devices or vapes/e-cigarettes. They’re incompatible, and this could damage the battery. Be sure to stick with the provided device charger.

 

Keeping on top of your device doesn’t take long, and aside from safety, it avoids the inconvenience of a broken tobacco heating device or vape/e-cigarette. That’s one reason why looking after your device is a good idea, but how exactly do you look after one?

 

 

How to Look After Your Tobacco Heating Device, E-cigarettes/Vapes, and Their Batteries?

 

There are a few everyday practices that can go a long way, not only in prolonging your device's life but also in supporting a satisfying experience every time. Here's what you can do to look after your tobacco heating device or e-cigarettes/vape:

• Avoid overcharging: it can damage the battery and the device. As a matter of tobacco heating devices and vapes/e-cigarettes safety, a faulty device can be simply avoided by bearing this in mind.
• Turn off your device after use: not only is it better for safety, but it also allows you to conserve your device's energy, avoiding the inconvenience of a powerless device.
• Keep away from sunlight or intense heat: you wouldn't leave your smartphone in direct sunlight, or any other electronic device for that matter. Your tobacco heating device and vapes are no different. Even in less intense environments, it's always good practice to keep your tobacco heating device and vapes/e-cigarettes away from direct heat or light.
• Keep your contact points clean: this will prevent deterioration. Your smoke-free product is designed to last, so why not keep it in good condition? A bit of cleaning goes a long way in ensuring your device's durability.

With these straightforward steps, you can:

• Prevent breakages
• Prolong use
• Keep your device safe

Your tobacco heating device and vapes/e-cigarettes should provide a satisfying experience. Good maintenance will sustain your device in the long run. As with any electronic device, safe charging practices as per the manufacturer's instructions should be upheld

 

 

How Long Does It Take To Charge a Tobacco Heating Device or Vape/E-Cigarette Battery?

 

Charging time can vary because every smoke-free product is different. Pay close attention to the individual guidance for your device, and remember that the complete charge time ultimately depends on personal usage. Let's not forget about the implications of battery size as well. Some devices may have longer battery life than others. A good recommendation is to charge your device in consistent short bursts. This avoids strain on the battery and minimizes long charging times. The consistent strain on a tobacco heating device and vape/e-cigarette battery can cause damage over time, raising questions about battery life.

 

 

How long should you keep your device battery?

 

Integrated/built-in batteries are non-replaceable, such as the ones in a heated tobacco device. As you don't need to worry about replacing them, you'll only need to keep an eye on the device's overall condition. For external batteries that some e-cigarettes have, best practice is to make regular checks for any physical damage. Vape batteries that have incurred damage should always be replaced for safety.

 

 

What happens if you leave your device charging?

 

You may be wondering whether you can charge an e-cigarette overnight. The convenience may seem all too tempting. The best way to charge your tobacco heating device or vape/e-cigarette battery is with short bursts. It is generally not advisable to charge a device overnight or for any prolonged period in which you cannot monitor it. It's also important to unplug your USB charger once the device is fully charged to avoid any damage, much like you should with a smartphone.

If you're charging in small bursts, you may also wonder whether you can use your device while it is charging.

 

 

Should I use my tobacco heating device or vapes while it’s charging?

 

It isn't advisable to use your tobacco heating device or vape/e-cigarettes while charging, as this puts pressure on the battery. Compromising your device's battery safety is not worth the convenience of using the device while you charge. Instead, utilize brief charging bursts to boost your device - that way, you won't need to use your e-cigarette while it's charging.

 

When choosing a smoke-free product, it's important to ensure the device is safe and meets your needs. Don't miss the chance to do your own research and find a reputable tobacco heating device, vape, or e-cigarette. With a trustworthy device from a reliable manufacturer, you can be confident about its quality and durability.