Can Power Banks catch fire when not in use?

Published on: September 18, 2025 • Categories: GAMING and ENERGY, TIPS

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Can Power Banks Catch Fire When Not in Use?

By Battery Safety Experts | Updated: September 18, 2025

Power banks have become essential everyday gadgets, but their lithium-ion batteries pose potential fire risks—even when not actively charging devices. Understanding these risks and proper storage practices can help prevent dangerous situations.

The Short Answer

Yes, power banks can potentially catch fire even when not in use, though the risk is relatively low with quality products and proper handling. The lithium-ion batteries inside power banks contain flammable electrolytes and can enter thermal runaway if damaged, defective, or improperly stored.

Why Power Banks Pose Fire Risks

Lithium-ion batteries, which power most portable chargers, contain highly reactive materials and flammable electrolytes. Even when not charging devices, these batteries:

Maintain a charge that contains potential energy
Can experience internal short circuits due to manufacturing defects
May degrade over time, increasing instability
Can be affected by environmental conditions like heat

Common Causes of Power Bank Fires

Physical Damage

Dropping or crushing a power bank can compromise internal components, potentially causing short circuits that lead to thermal runaway—even weeks after the damage occurred.

Manufacturing Defects

Poor quality control during production can result in internal flaws that may cause spontaneous failures, including:

Impurity particles in battery cells
Poor separator quality
Faulty protection circuits

Improper Storage

Storing power banks in inappropriate conditions significantly increases fire risks:

High temperatures (left in cars, near heat sources)
Humid environments that promote corrosion
With metal objects that can short-circuit terminals

Age and Degradation

As lithium-ion batteries age, their internal resistance increases, making them more prone to overheating. Old or heavily used power banks pose higher risks even when not actively charging devices.

Warning Signs Your Power Bank Might Be Dangerous

Swelling or bulging of the casing
Discoloration or unusual heating when not in use
Liquid leaking from the device
Strange odors (especially sweet or metallic smells)
Inability to hold a charge

If you notice any of these signs, stop using the power bank immediately and dispose of it properly at a battery recycling facility.

How to Store Power Banks Safely

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Store at partial charge – Ideally between 30-50% charge for long-term storage

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Keep in a cool, dry place – Away from direct sunlight and heat sources

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Use protective cases – Prevent terminal contact with metal objects

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Check periodically – Inspect stored power banks every few months

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Avoid extreme temperatures – Don’t store in cars or freezing environments

Choosing Safer Power Banks

Reduce fire risks by selecting quality products:

Look for recognized safety certifications (UL, CE, RoHS)
Choose brands with good reputations rather than unknown manufacturers
Avoid extremely cheap power banks that may cut corners on safety
Select products with multiple protection features (overcharge, short-circuit, temperature control)

Frequently Asked Questions

Can a power bank spontaneously combust?

While rare, spontaneous combustion can occur in power banks with manufacturing defects or those that have been damaged. Quality power banks from reputable brands have very low risk of spontaneous combustion.

How long can I safely store a power bank?

When stored properly at partial charge in cool conditions, power banks can be safely stored for 6-12 months. Check them periodically and recharge to 30-50% if the charge drops too low.

Should I store my power bank in the refrigerator?

No, refrigeration is not recommended. The moisture can damage electronics and cause corrosion. Instead, store at room temperature in a dry environment.

Are some power bank types safer than others?

Power banks with lithium iron phosphate (LiFePO4) batteries generally have better thermal and chemical stability than traditional lithium-ion batteries, making them less prone to fire.

Final Thoughts

While the risk of a properly functioning, undamaged power bank catching fire when not in use is relatively low, it’s not impossible. The key to safety lies in:

Choosing quality products from reputable manufacturers
Proper storage conditions (cool, dry, partial charge)
Regular inspection for damage or signs of failure
Proper disposal of old or damaged power banks

By following these guidelines, you can significantly reduce the already small risk of power bank fires and use these convenient devices with greater confidence and safety.