Whether you ride your electric scooter daily for commuting or only occasionally for casual rides, proper storage is key to maintaining battery health and optimal performance over the scooter’s lifespan.
In this article, we’ll discuss why good storage practices are so important for electric scooters, and we’ll provide you with tips and guidelines to follow when storing your electric scooter.
Why Proper Storage is Important for Electric Scooters
Proper storage is not just a matter of convenience. By taking the time to store your scooter correctly, you can protect it from damage, maintain its overall condition, and extend its lifespan. And proper storage means keeping your scooter inside.
One of the primary reasons for storing electric scooters indoors is shielding them from the harsh elements. Whether it's scorching sun, heavy rain, or extreme cold, environmental factors can wreak havoc on your scooter's components.
The battery, motor, and electrical wiring are particularly vulnerable to damage caused by exposure to the elements. By storing your electric scooter indoors or in a covered area, you create a protective barrier against the elements.
Moreover, proper storage can significantly reduce the risk of theft. Electric scooters are valuable assets, and leaving them unattended or in an easily accessible area can make them an attractive target for opportunistic thieves.
Theft deterrence and prevention include using sturdy locks, securing your scooter to immovable objects, and choosing well-lit and secure storage locations. By taking these precautions, you can greatly minimize the chances of your scooter being stolen, providing you with peace of mind.
Additionally, proper storage allows you to maintain the cleanliness of your electric scooter. Dust, dirt, moisture, and debris can accumulate on the scooter's surfaces and inside its parts, potentially affecting its operation, aesthetics, and resale value.
Lastly, proper storage also helps prevent accidental damage. When a scooter is left in a haphazard manner, it becomes susceptible to bumps, falls, and collisions with other objects. By storing your scooter in a designated space, away from potential hazards, you reduce the risk of accidental damage and keep your scooter in top shape.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Storage Location
When choosing a storage location for your electric scooter, first you should ensure that the location is dry and free from moisture.
Excessive moisture can cause corrosion and damage to the scooter's electrical components. Moldy basements or garages should be cleaned and insulated before they’re used as storage spaces for electric vehicles.
It is also important to keep your scooter away from direct sunlight, as prolonged exposure to UV rays can fade the scooter's paint and damage plastic, and rubber parts, and extreme heat can damage electrical parts and shorten the lifespan of the battery.
Essential Steps for Preparing Your Electric Scooter for Storage
Before storing your electric scooter, it is important to take certain steps to ensure that it is in the best condition and ready for use when you need it again.
The first step is to thoroughly clean your scooter. Remove any dirt or debris from its surfaces using a soft cloth or sponge and mild cleaning solution.
Next, check the battery level. If the scooter's battery is low, it is advisable to fully charge it to around 80% before storing. This prevents the battery from discharging completely, which can lead to damage or reduced battery life.
For optimal battery life, you should aim to keep your scooter charged at between 20-80% when using it frequently. When storing for long periods of time, charge your battery to 40-50% and check it often to top off.
You can, of course, fully charge your scooter any time you want to take a long ride or make sure you have maximum power for a speed run. But there’s no need to fully charge your battery every time and risk overcharging the battery, which can cause deterioration of the individual cells due to heat buildup.
It is also important to check the tire pressure and inflate pneumatic tires to the recommended level. Proper tire pressure ensures optimal performance and prevents unnecessary wear and tear. Moreover, underinflated tires can cause pinch flats, in tubes with tires, or leaks in tubeless tires, so top off the tires when you check the battery if you’re storing for long periods of time.
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The Importance of Regular Maintenance in Prolonging Battery Life
As we’ve noted, an essential aspect of storing your electric scooter is regularly maintaining its battery. The battery is the power center of your scooter – without it you aren’t going anywhere – and proper care can significantly extend its lifespan.
One important practice is to keep the battery charged to at least 50%, even when the scooter is not in use. This prevents the battery from discharging completely, which can cause permanent damage. If you only ride occasionally, you should check the battery at least once every two weeks, depending on the manufacturer's guidelines.
In addition to regular charging, it’s also important to store the battery in a cool, dry place. Extreme heat or cold can negatively impact the battery's performance and reduce its overall lifespan. By storing the battery in a climate-controlled environment, you can ensure that it remains in optimal condition.
Protecting Your Electric Scooter from Theft When Storing
One of the best practices to prevent theft is to always lock your scooter when it is outside and not in use, even if you’re only walking away for a moment. That’s all it takes for thieves to steal your expensive investment.
However, even if you’re storing your scooter indoors in a common area, such as a parking garage or dorm, you’ll want to lock it up securely to make sure it stays where you put it.
Use a sturdy, high-rated U-lock to secure the scooter to a fixed object, such as a bike rack or a sturdy pole. Make sure the object is high enough that thieves can’t slide the lock and scooter over it and walk away.
Consider investing in a GPS tracking device for your electric scooter. These devices can help you locate your scooter in the event of theft and increase the chances of recovering it. Many electric scooter manufacturers, such as Apollo, include GPS in their scooters and software.
How to Protect Your Electric Scooter From Theft: 4 Useful Tips
Creative Storage Solutions for Small Living Spaces
If you live in a small living space and are concerned about storing your electric scooter, there are several creative solutions you can consider.
One option is to invest in an ultraportable foldable electric scooter. These scooters are designed to be compact and lightweight, making them ideal for small living spaces. You can store them under your desk, in a closet, or even hang them on the wall when not in use (check out this DIY scooter hanging rack).
Ultraportable electric scooters usually weigh under 30 pounds and often have folding handlebars and other collapsing parts that enable them to take up less space than other scooters when folded.
If floor space is limited, consider utilizing vertical storage solutions. Install hooks or wall mounts to hang your scooter, freeing up floor space while keeping your scooter easily accessible. (Check out this DIY scooter hanging rack for a garage).
Another option is to explore community storage options. Some apartment complexes or housing communities offer storage lockers or designated areas to store things like bikes or scooters. Inquire with your building management to see if these options are available to you.
Again, do not leave your scooter unlocked in common areas.
How to Clean and Maintain Your Electric Scooter During Storage
During storage, it is important to keep your electric scooter clean and well-maintained to ensure its longevity.
Regularly wipe down the scooter's surfaces using a soft cloth and mild cleaning solution. Pay attention to removing any dirt, dust, or residue that may have accumulated. This helps to prevent corrosion and maintain the scooter's overall appearance.
In addition to cleaning, it is important to perform regular maintenance checks. Inspect the scooter's components for any signs of wear or damage. Check the tire pressure and ensure that it is at the recommended level. Lubricate the scooter's moving parts, such as the wheels and hinges, to prevent rust and ensure smooth operation.
Learn more about crucial electric scooter maintenance tips
Tips for Winterizing Your Electric Scooter
If you live in an area with cold winters, it is important to take extra precautions to winterize your electric scooter.
Firstly, make sure to fully charge the battery to at least 80% before storing your scooter for an extended period. This helps to prevent it from discharging completely, which can lead to permanent damage.
Next, protect your scooter from moisture and extreme temperatures by storing it in a dry, climate-controlled location. Avoid leaving it outside or in unheated garages or sheds, as exposure to cold temperatures can damage the battery and other sensitive components.
If you are not planning to use your electric scooter during the winter months, consider removing the battery and storing it separately. This allows you to store the scooter in a more compact space and also protects the battery from temperature fluctuations.
Prepare your electric scooter for the season
Common Mistakes When Storing Your Electric Scooter
When it comes to storing your electric scooter, there are several common mistakes that you should avoid to maintain its lifespan and performance.
- Do not leave the scooter outside exposed to the elements, in either cold or hot weather
- Do not store your scooter with a discharged battery
- Do not store your scooter with dirt, grime, and debris on its components and frame
- Do not use improper storage methods that can cause damage or scratches
- Always protect your scooter against theft, even if only leaving it for short periods of time. E-bike and e-scooter thefts are on the rise!
By avoiding these common mistakes and following the essential steps for proper storage, you can ensure that your electric scooter remains in optimal condition, safe from theft, and ready for use whenever you need it.
