Safety Reminders for At-Home Mobile Device Repair

The Right to Repair has been a long-debated topic in the tech industry for many years and continues to be controversial. What began as an idea has transformed into a movement sweeping the industry, leading several states to propose repair legislation and some to pass repair laws. Self-repair has pros and cons as a facet of the right to repair, but whether users choose to turn to third-party repair shops or fix their own devices, it is critical to practice safe device repair, especially if attempted at home. 

Among the many industry leaders who have notoriously lobbied against the movement, Apple was the highest profile to pushback for the right to repair. The tech giant was known for withholding necessary information to repair Apple products from third-party repair shops, forcing Apple users to go only to Apple stores for repairs, which can cost as much as the device itself. 

In recent years, Apple has changed its tune, showing support for the movement and repair legislation. The company even developed repair kits for users to take home, marking a significant turn for the right-to-repair movement. Microsoft followed suit and announced their support of the right to repair shortly after. 

Despite support from industry leaders, many still need to decide whether or not the right to repair is a good idea, specifically those seeking to fix their own devices at home. Though it is the best course of action, taking electronics to third-party shops is expensive; many would instead try to repair devices themselves before spending the money. The right to repair encompasses several aspects of device repair, but self-repair is perhaps the most dangerous and should never be attempted without proper preparations. 

First and foremost, anyone attempting repairs at home should wear safety glasses, especially when removing or installing Lithium Ion batteries. Before you begin battery maintenance, it is critical to ensure your workspace is clutter-free and that no other electronics or combustible materials are nearby to prevent a chain reaction. It is also best to avoid handling LIBs over a carpeted area. 

During device maintenance, special care must be taken never to puncture or bend a battery at a sharp angle, as any damage could start a fire. If a battery fire occurs during self-repair, or if you feel the battery heating up, put it down immediately. Wait until the fire is extinguished and the battery has cooled to handle it again. 

It is important to note that LIB battery fires are more difficult to extinguish because they result from a chemical reaction. Small LIBs can be doused with water or a Class D fire extinguisher. Using a foam extinguisher, CO2, ABC dry chemical, powder graphite, copper powder, or sodium carbonate is best for larger battery fires. If the fire cannot be extinguished and is in a controlled setting, the safest option is to let it burn on its own. 

Do not throw batteries in the trash when you finish the repair. IT asset disposition facilities like HOBI have trained professionals who collect old electronics, including batteries and recycle them in an eco-friendly manner. This ensures the battery is not taken to a landfill to contaminate the environment further.