Cold weather can wreak havoc on your devices, causing them to shut down or lose efficiency unexpectedly
Toronto: Have you ever been outside in the cold and noticed your phone just won’t cooperate? It’s a real hassle, especially in Canada.
When temperatures drop below freezing, devices with lithium-ion batteries can act up. They might shut down, drain quickly, or just not respond like they usually do.
This happens because lithium-ion batteries work best between -20 and 60°C. Outside of that range, they can struggle. Cold weather slows down the battery’s electrolyte, making it harder for ions to move and generate power.
So, what devices are most affected? Let’s break it down.
Smartphones
If your phone shuts off in the cold, just wait until you’re back inside to restart it. Keep it warm in your pocket or with a cozy case.
Tablets
Tablets also use lithium-ion batteries. Cold can drain their power and make the touch screen less responsive.
Wireless Headphones
Your wireless headphones might disconnect or shut down when it’s freezing. Regular corded headphones usually don’t have this problem.
E-bikes and Scooters
In December 2024, Toronto banned lithium-ion battery-powered e-bikes and scooters for safety reasons after some incidents. These batteries can catch fire more easily in the cold.
Smart Watches
While cold weather probably won’t damage your smart watch, it can affect how accurately it tracks things.
Electric Vehicles
Electric vehicles can also take a hit. Research shows their driving range can drop by about 12% when it’s -7°C compared to a comfy 24°C.
So, next time you head out in the cold, keep these tips in mind to keep your devices running smoothly!
