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Don't Panic! Here's Why Your Power Bank is Swollen (and What You Should Do With It)

By Maiye Jeremiah

6 comments
Don't Panic! Here's Why Your Power Bank is Swollen (and What You Should Do With It)
You just picked up your power bank and something feels... off. It is rounder than it used to be. The seams are separating. It doesn't sit flat anymore.

Most people have no idea what to do next.

Take a breath. You're in the right place.

A swollen power bank, while concerning, isn't necessarily the end of the world. But it is a sign that something's wrong, and it's important to understand why and how to handle the situation safely. 

This guide will tell you why it happened, what the risks actually are, and step-by-step how to handle it safely. Whether you are in the US, UK, Australia, Canada or anywhere else. Also introduce you to the VoltaGo Max. A power bank that gives you peace of mind and eliminates the worries of swelling.

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Understanding Lithium-ion Battery

Most modern power banks, like yours, rely on lithium-ion batteries to store energy. These powerhouses pack a lot of punch in a small package, making them ideal for portable charging. However, lithium-ion batteries are complex chemical systems, and under certain conditions, they can degrade and swell.

There are several factors that can contribute to a swollen power bank battery:

Overheating: Extreme temperatures, either during charging or discharging, can cause the battery to expand and potentially rupture.

Overcharging: Leaving your power bank plugged in for extended periods, even after it's fully charged, can stress the battery and lead to swelling.

Deep discharge: Completely draining the battery before recharging can damage the internal components and cause swelling.

Manufacturing defects: In rare cases, a faulty battery cell from the manufacturer could be to blame.

Age: Like all things, batteries have a lifespan. Over time, the capacity will decrease, and the risk of swelling increases.

How To Know If Your Power Bank Is Actually Swollen

Not all swelling is dramatic. Sometimes it starts subtle. Here are the signs, check your power bank against this list right now:

Visual signs:

  • It rocks on a flat surface when it didn't used to
  • The casing looks rounded, puffy or thicker than when you bought it
  • You can see the seams separating or the plastic/metal casing lifting at the edges
  • There is discoloration or warping on the surface

Physical signs:

  • It feels noticeably heavier or bulkier in your hand
  • Buttons feel stiff or don't click properly
  • Charging cables no longer fit the ports as snugly as before

Performance signs:

  • It runs hot during charging or discharging, hotter than usual
  • It is losing charge faster than it used to 
  • It charges devices more slowly than it did before

Key point: Even slight swelling is not something to monitor and wait on. The swelling process is not reversible. Once a battery starts expanding, the internal damage is already done.

The Dangers of a Swollen Power Bank

A swollen power bank isn't just an eyesore; it's a potential safety hazard. The internal pressure can build up, causing the battery to leak, vent flammable electrolytes, or even explode. Here's why you should take a swollen power bank seriously:
Fire risk: Leaking electrolytes can come into contact with electrical components and ignite.

Toxic fumes: The electrolytes in lithium-ion batteries contain harmful chemicals that can be released if the battery ruptures.

Burns: Leaking electrolytes can cause skin and eye irritation.

What to Do With a Swollen Power Bank

Now that you understand the cause and dangers of a swollen power bank, here's what you should do if yours falls victim to this unfortunate situation:

1. Stop using it immediately: Don't try to charge it, discharge it, or even move it around too much.

2. Place it in a safe location: Move the swollen power bank to a cool, well-ventilated area away from flammable materials. Ideally, place it on a non-combustible surface like a concrete floor or ceramic tile.

3. Isolate it: If possible, keep the power bank away from other electronics or flammable objects.

4. Dispose of it properly: Don't throw your swollen power bank in the trash! Lithium-ion batteries require special handling for safe disposal. Luckily, many electronics stores and recycling centers accept these batteries. You can find a local drop-off location by searching online. 

Here are some additional tips:

Take pictures: Before disposing of the battery, take a few pictures of the damage. This can be helpful if you need to file a warranty claim with the manufacturer.

Contact the manufacturer: If your power bank is still under warranty, contact the manufacturer to see if they will replace it.

Preventing Power Bank Swelling in the First Place.

An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure, as the saying goes. Here are some tips to help ensure your power bank stays healthy and functional for a long time:

Use a high-quality charger: Always use the original charger that came with your power bank, or a reputable third-party charger that is specifically designed for lithium-ion batteries. Using a versatile charging cable like the Volta Max keeps your power bank safe and reduces the chances of getting a swollen power bank.

Avoid extreme temperatures: Don't leave your power bank in direct sunlight or in a hot car. Likewise, avoid using it in freezing temperatures.

Don't overcharge or deep discharge: Unplug your power bank once it's fully charged, and avoid letting it completely drain before recharging.

Store it properly: When not in use, store your power bank in a cool, dry place.

Invest in a reliable power bank:Choosing a well-made power bank like the VoltaGo Max from a reputable brand can significantly reduce the risk of swelling.

Introducing the VoltaGo Max 27,000mAh Power Bank: Your Safe and Reliable Power Solution

– the perfect solution for keeping your devices charged on the go, with peace of mind. 

We understand that a swollen power bank can be a scary experience. But it's important to remember that not all power banks are created equal. Here at Volta, we prioritize safety and quality in every product we design.

The VoltaGo Max uses premium Lithium-ion battery cells that are rigorously tested to ensure safety and longevity. We incorporate multiple safety features to prevent the very issues that can lead to swelling

Stylish and Portable

The VoltaGo Max comes with a blend of style and portability 

FAQ's

Why do power banks swell?

Swelling in power banks typically occurs due to the battery’s internal chemical reactions becoming unstable. Overcharging, using low-quality chargers, or exposing the power bank to extreme heat can cause this. The battery's electrolyte expands, leading to the swelling.

Is a swollen power bank dangerous?

Yes, a swollen power bank poses serious risks. It can potentially leak harmful chemicals, catch fire, or even explode. If you notice swelling, immediately stop using the power bank and dispose of it safely according to local e-waste guidelines.

How can I prevent my power bank from swelling?

To prevent swelling, use a high-quality charger, avoid overcharging, keep your power bank away from heat, and regularly monitor its condition. It's also essential to follow the manufacturer’s instructions on charging cycles and storage.

Can I fix a swollen power bank?

No, a swollen power bank should never be repaired. It should be safely disposed of as it has already become a hazard. Continuing to use or tamper with a swollen battery increases the risk of fire or explosion.

What are the signs that my power bank is failing?

Signs include swelling, slow charging, overheating, or not holding a charge as long as it used to. If any of these occur, it’s time to replace the power bank.

Can I take a power bank on a plane?

Yes, power banks are allowed in carry-on luggage but not in checked bags. However, they must adhere to airline regulations on battery capacity. Typically, power banks under 100Wh are allowed on flights without approval.

How do I choose the right power bank for my needs?

Consider the capacity (measured in mAh), the number of devices you plan to charge, and features like fast charging, size, and weight. A versatile option like the VoltaGo Max Power Bank can meet a range of needs with its 27,000 mAh capacity and convenient magnetic connection.

How do I properly dispose of a damaged or swollen power bank?

Swollen or damaged power banks should be disposed of at designated e-waste or recycling centers. Never throw them in regular trash as they can be harmful and flammable.

🇺🇸 United States

  • Visit Call2Recycle.org or Earth911.com. Enter your zip code to find the nearest drop-off
  • Most Best Buy, Home Depot, and staples locations have dedicated battery recycling kiosks
  • Many municipal Household Hazardous Waste (HHW) facilities accept them, search your city name + "HHW drop-off"
  • Note: Call ahead for swollen/damaged batteries specifically, as some locations have policies about accepting them.

🇬🇧 United Kingdom

  • Take it to any Currys PC world, Argos, or Robert Dyas. All accept battery recycling.
  • Find your nearest drop-off at Recycle Now (recyclenow.com) or the Battery Back (batteryback.org) scheme
  • Your local council's recycling centre (tip) will also accept it under hazardous waste

🇨🇦 Canada

  • Use Call2Recycle Canada (call2recycle.ca) to find a drop-off near you
  • Best Buy Canada, London Drugs, and Canadian Tire all have battery recycling bins.

 West Africa

  • Contact your state's Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).
  • Reach out to Wecyclers or GreenTech Recycling for e-waste collection.
  • Some phone repair shops and electronics markets accept dead power banks.

🇦🇺 Australia

  • Drop it off at any Officeworks, JB Hi-Fi, or Battery World. All participate in the B-cycle national scheme.
  • Find locations at bcycle.com.au

🇿🇦 South Africa

  • Reclite and e-Waste Africa both accept lithium batteries. Find drop-offs at ewaste.co.za
  • Takealot service centres and select incredible connection branches also accept e-waste.

Everywhere else search: "your city + e-waste recycling" or "Your city + battery disposal". Look for municipal hazardous waste programmes or electronics retailers with take-back schemes. Never dump it in regular trash.

What’s the best way to store a power bank when not in use?

Store your power bank in a cool, dry place, and avoid leaving it fully charged or fully depleted for long periods. Keeping it at about 50% charge is ideal for long-term storage.

6 comments

Volta Charger

Volta Charger

Hi Francis, we understand it’s frustrating to look for a clear answer, but please do NOT soak your power bank in water. This is extremely dangerous. Lithium reacts violently with water and could cause a fire or release toxic fumes.

Since your power bank is already bloated, it is a fire hazard. Here is the briefest, safest advice based on our guide:

Stop using it immediately. Do not plug it in or try to squeeze it.

Isolate it. Place it in a non-flammable container, like a metal bucket or a glass jar with sand, and keep it outside away from your home.

Find a drop-off. You cannot throw this in the regular trash. Go to a site like Call2Recycle.org or Earth911.com and enter your zip code to find a local ‘Hazardous Household Waste’ or ‘Battery Recycling’ center. Most Best Buy or Home Depot locations have dedicated kiosks for this.

Please stay safe and handle it with care!

Volta Charger

Volta Charger

Hi Dorcas! While our blog post specifically focuses on power bank swelling and disposal, your question about solar batteries is very relevant because the underlying chemistry is often the same, and overcharging is a leading cause of battery failure.

In a solar setup, you can tell a battery is overcharging if:

High Heat: The battery feels abnormally hot to the touch during peak sunlight hours.

Voltage Spikes: If your system monitor or a voltmeter shows a reading significantly higher than the battery’s ‘full’ rating (e.g., consistently over 14.6V for many 12V systems), the charge controller may be failing.

Physical Changes: Just like the power banks in our article, a solar battery that is overcharging may begin to ‘bloat’ or bulge.

Smell/Noise: If it’s a lead-acid solar battery, you might notice a ‘rotten egg’ smell or a bubbling sound.

If you suspect overcharging, we recommend checking your charge controller settings immediately to prevent the kind of permanent damage discussed in the post.

Volta Charger

Volta Charger

Hello Ahmad! You’ve done some excellent research. You are absolutely correct on most points.

Lithium-ion batteries are indeed under the least chemical stress when kept between 20% and 80%. Charging to 100% or letting it drop to 0% causes high voltage and thermal stress, which over time leads to swelling.

To clarify your second point: while a single uninterrupted charge is efficient, Lithium-ion batteries actually don’t mind ‘top-up’ charges. Short, frequent charges (e.g., from 40% to 70%) are often better than letting it drop very low just to do one long session. Regarding your third point, you are spot on, heat is the enemy. Fast-charging generates more heat, which accelerates the degradation of the battery’s internal separators. Using a slower charger overnight is a great way to extend the lifespan of your device. Thanks for sharing your insights

Dorcas A Herr

Dorcas A Herr

How do you know if a solar battery is overcharging?

Francis

Francis

I want to know how to dispose an old bloated power banks..Searching here in Google they told us to give to the proper disposal management or look for manufacturers manual..Tired of reading all this stuff..I would like a brief and accurate advice base on your experience..Should soaking in water before throwing it away much better or still dangerous.? Pls respect my question.😊

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