7 Things About Fire Prevention & Lithium Batteries That Golf Cart Owners Should Know

golf cart fire

For many golf cart enthusiasts, the whispers of lithium batteries and their potential fire risks have stoked anxiety. While the benefits of modern battery technologies are indisputable, the shadow of fire hazards looms large in the minds of cart owners. This guide aims to illuminate the complexities of golf cart batteries, offering clarity on fire prevention, safety measures, and how to navigate the intricacies of your cart's power source with confidence and peace of mind.

1. Are there different kinds of lithium batteries?

There are various lithium battery chemistries, with Lithium Nickel Cobalt Aluminum (NCA) and Lithium Iron Phosphate (LiFePO4) being prevalent choices. NCA batteries often have a higher energy density, translating to a longer range. Brands like Tesla notably use these but can have higher fire risks.

LiFePO4 batteries usually offer a longer cycle life, implying more charge and discharge cycles before their capacity reduces. Plus, they're considered safer due to their chemical stability. When opting for a battery, always take your requirements into account and get expert advice.

2. How frequently should I charge my golf cart?

Charge your cart after each use or daily. Regular charging is key to maintaining battery longevity. It also helps to prevent deep discharging, which can be detrimental to the battery's health and longevity, in addition to increased risks of a short circuit and/or fire.

3. Is overnight charging advisable?

Certainly, overnight charging for modern carts is safe. Modern chargers are designed with safety mechanisms that prevent overcharging Ensure you use an OEM, quality charger - like a Lester Summit II -  programmed for compatibility with your cart and batteries to minimize any risks.

4. Are carts with lithium the only ones prone to fires?

All battery types, including lead-acid, can potentially catch fire under the right conditions. According to available data, instances of golf cart fires are rare, but they do occur. Factors that can contribute to fires include using incorrect chargers, deep discharging, and physical damage to the batteries. It's crucial to follow best practices for use and charging to minimize risks.

5. Why does my cart need frequent servicing, and does battery age matter?

Regular maintenance is key for performance and safety. As batteries age, their efficiency can decrease, affecting the cart's safety and function. It's essential to monitor older batteries and replace them when needed to top performance and reduced risks.

If you have a battery pack with older batteries, it's essential to monitor them closely. Batteries that can't reach their target voltage due to age or degradation can cause other batteries in the pack to overcharge. This overcharging can pose potential risks, including decreased battery lifespan and increased chances of fires or other safety hazards.

To ensure safety and efficiency, it's advisable to replace older batteries, whether the entire pack or just a few individual batteries showing signs of wear. By doing so, you ensure that all batteries in the pack function harmoniously, reducing risks and maximizing performance.

6. Why ensure battery connections are secure?

Proper connections are crucial. Loose ones can cause heat generation, posing potential threats. Periodically inspect and, if unsure, seek expert assistance. Ensure connections are tight, but avoid excessive force.

We cannot stress enough the importance of regular maintenance!

7. What if my cart gets submerged?

Submerging any electrical device in water presents inherent risks, and this is especially true for vehicles equipped with lithium batteries. Here's a breakdown of the potential fire hazards related to water exposure for both Lithium batteries:

  • Short Circuits: Water can cause unintended electrical paths, leading to fire risks.
  • Corrosion: Especially from salt water, it can result in increased resistance and heat.
  • NCA Risks: Electrolytes inside batteries can react with water, potentially causing heat or fires.
  • LiFePO4 Risks: They're stable but aren't exempt from water-related risks.

if a golf cart has been submerged in water, DO NOT drive it! Immediately leave your cart outside, away from any dwellings, and contact a professional technician for a thorough inspection and assessment. Even if the cart functions correctly after drying, hidden damage or corrosion might still pose a fire risk. If a golf cart has been involved in such an incident, seek professional guidance before attempting to operate it again.

Points to Remember:

  • Never use an extension cord or power strip when charging your golf cart. Directly plug the
    charger into a grounded outlet on a dedicated 20amp circuit to ensure safety and proper
    charging.
  • If you're using Flooded Lead-Acid batteries, always check the water level before charging your
    cart. Charging dry batteries can increase the risk of a fire.

    • But don't overfill them, either! Click here for more information on properly maintaining your lead-acid batteries.
  • Always ensure that you have a high-quality OEM charger that's programmed for your specific
    golf cart and its batteries. This ensures effective and safe charging.
  • When opting for a lithium battery, always buy from a trusted, reputable manufacturer and
    ensure a professional, reputable repair shop installs it. This guarantees that the installation
    meets safety standards and maximizes the longevity of your investment.