A cold morning, a wet ride and then the bike goes into the shed: in autumn and winter, your e-bike battery faces different conditions. A suitable charging area and the right storage routine help you look after it properly. Always begin with the manual for your bike, battery and charger.
Reduced range in cold weather does not necessarily mean a fault
The manufacturer Gazelle beschrijft dat kou de prestaties van de fietsaccu beïnvloedt. Allow some reserve for your return journey. The difference depends on the system and how you use it; there is no fixed percentage loss that applies to every e-bike or fatbike.
If you notice an unusual change, record the outside temperature, distance travelled, assistance level and any error message. This will help you describe the problem more clearly when asking for advice.
Let a cold battery warm up gradually
Gazelle adviseert laden op kamertemperatuur. Laat een koude accu rustig op temperatuur komen op een droge plek, weg van een verwarming of andere directe warmtebron. Een uitneembare accu kun je volgens de instructies verwijderen en kort vóór vertrek terugplaatsen.
Do not charge in freezing conditions. Check the permitted charging temperature range in your battery manual. The charging limit may differ from the permitted temperatures for riding or storage. A permanently installed battery requires a suitable location for the entire bike; do not try to remove it yourself.
Create a dedicated, safe charging area
In the campaign Ik laad accuraat , the Dutch safety regions provide the following practical charging advice:
- Charge only while you are awake and nearby.
- Choose a stable, clear, non-combustible surface.
- Make sure there is a working smoke alarm that can be heard clearly in the charging area.
- Protect the battery and charger from moisture, frost and direct sunlight.
- Disconnect the battery from the charger after charging; do not leave it connected continuously.
Also keep escape routes clear, as Safety Region Hollands Midden advises. Gebruik de lader die bij jouw accu hoort. De campagne Ik laad accuraat warns that an incorrect charger can cause damage. A plug that fits does not by itself show that a charger is suitable.
Not using the bike for an extended period
Do not store a battery empty, and do not leave it unchecked for months during a winter break. Record the inspection intervals specified by the manufacturer.
Er is geen universeel opslagpercentage. Kalkhoff specifies approximately 50%. Dit is een fabrikantvoorbeeld, geen instelling die automatisch voor jouw fatbike geldt. Volg de handleiding van het exacte accutype. Ontbreekt die of spreken instructies elkaar tegen? Vraag eerst de leverancier om verduidelijking.
After rain, a fall or visible damage
Kalkhoff advises carefully cleaning the battery with a damp cloth and keeping the contacts dry; a water jet or pressure washer is unsuitable. Follow your system's instructions when removing, cleaning and refitting the battery.
Do not continue charging a damaged or potentially damaged battery. Do not use a damaged charger either. After a fall, or if you notice deformation, leakage or unusual heat, have the situation assessed first. Do not open the battery casing yourself or attempt to repair the cells.
Bij rook, brand of een sterke chemische geur: verlaat de ruimte, waarschuw anderen en bel 112. Probeer de accu niet zelf te verplaatsen of te blussen. Lees de waarschuwingssignalen en adviezen van de brandweer.
Questions about your e-bike or fatbike?
Send FietsGenot the brand, model, battery type and a description of the problem. Include a photo of the label or error message if it is safe to do so. Our page about bike repairs in Lelystad explains how we discuss the options, work and costs.
If you cannot bring in a bike with an ordinary mechanical fault, ask about our collection service by appointment. If the battery may be damaged, contact us first; do not transport it to the shop on your own initiative. If you live in Almere or elsewhere outside Lelystad, provide your location so we can discuss the options.
Still choosing a bike? View our electric bikes or read the guide to choosing a new fatbike. Before buying, also consider where and how you will charge the battery.
Leg dit klaar voor je advies vraagt
Merk en model van de fiets, type van accu en lader, eventuele foutcode en een korte beschrijving van wanneer de klacht optreedt. Maak alleen een foto van het label als dat veilig kan. Bij acute waarschuwingssignalen volg je eerst het noodadvies hierboven.