BP-Y14L

User guides, assembly videos and 3MF print files are on the Documents page.

Lithium Battery Safety Disclosure & Disclaimer

W0AEZ Radio Gear LLC – Updated 2025

Effective Date: January 1, 2025

Lithium batteries provide excellent performance and energy density but can pose safety risks if handled improperly. By using products containing lithium batteries from W0AEZ Radio Gear LLC, you agree to follow the safety guidelines below and accept all associated risks.

This disclosure applies to all W0AEZ products containing lithium-ion, lithium-polymer, or other lithium-based rechargeable batteries, including but not limited to battery cases, portable power banks, and battery-powered accessories.

1. Risk of Fire, Explosion, or Thermal Runaway

Lithium batteries may ignite, swell, or enter thermal runaway if:

• Punctured or physically damaged
• Exposed to extreme heat
• Short-circuited
• Overcharged or improperly charged
• Used with incompatible equipment

If abnormal heat, swelling, smoke, odor, or noise occurs, immediately stop using the product and move it to a safe, ventilated area away from flammable materials.

In case of fire or smoke: Use a Class D fire extinguisher or large amounts of water. Do not use foam or CO2 extinguishers. Call emergency services if the fire cannot be quickly controlled. Contact kevin@w0aez.com to report the incident after ensuring safety.

2. Charging Safety

To reduce risk of fire or malfunction:

• Only use chargers specifically designed for the product. Refer to product documentation for specific voltage/current requirements (typically 5V USB-C chargers unless otherwise specified).
• Do not use third-party power sources, adapters, Power Delivery (PD) triggers, or improvised charging methods not designed for the device.
• Charge only in a well-ventilated area and never leave charging unattended.
• Charging temperature range: 0°C to 45°C (32°F to 113°F)
• Do not charge damaged, swollen, or overheating batteries.

3. Storage and Transportation

Store batteries in a cool, dry, and well-ventilated environment.

Avoid leaving batteries in vehicles, direct sunlight, or extreme temperatures.

Transport lithium batteries in a way that prevents crushing, puncture, or short circuits.

When transporting lithium batteries, particularly by air, customers should check with their carrier for applicable regulations. Most lithium batteries under 100Wh (typical for consumer devices) are permitted with restrictions. For more information, consult Department of Transportation (DOT) or International Air Transport Association (IATA) guidelines.

Lithium batteries may swell or vent at high altitudes or during air transport due to pressure changes. This is normal and typically resolves at lower pressure. Do not puncture swollen batteries.

4. User-Serviceable Products (Where Applicable)

Some W0AEZ products allow the Customer to replace the battery cell.

Replacement must be performed only with cells specifically recommended by W0AEZ or specified in product documentation. Contact kevin@w0aez.com for approved replacement cell specifications.

Installing unapproved, counterfeit, rewrapped, or incorrectly sized cells is unsafe and voids all warranties and liability protections.

Incorrect installation may cause overheating, fire, or permanent device damage.

5. Keep Away from Children and Pets

Lithium batteries are not toys.

Keep out of reach of children and animals.

Swallowing or tampering with lithium batteries can cause severe injury or death.

6. Disposal

Do not dispose of lithium batteries in household trash.

Follow local regulations for battery recycling. Many retailers (Home Depot, Best Buy, battery specialty stores) and municipal hazardous waste facilities accept lithium batteries for recycling. Visit call2recycle.org to find local drop-off locations.

Damaged or swollen batteries must be taken to a proper recycling facility immediately.

Never incinerate or expose batteries to open flame.

7. Overheating, Ventilation & Prohibited Actions

If a product becomes unusually hot or behaves abnormally, discontinue use immediately.

Operating temperature range: –20°C to 60°C (–4°F to 140°F)

Do NOT:

• Puncture, crush, disassemble, or modify lithium batteries
• Expose batteries to conductive materials (keys, coins, tools, etc.)
• Submerge batteries in liquid
• Use damaged charging cables
• Operate batteries outside the temperature range specified above

8. Battery Lifespan & Performance

Lithium batteries naturally degrade over time.

Reduced capacity and shorter runtime as the battery ages are normal characteristics, not defects.

Capacity loss of up to 20% over 2 years or 300-500 charge cycles is considered normal wear and is not a defect.

Battery lifespan depends on usage patterns, environment, and charge cycles.

9. Warranty and Liability

Lithium batteries are considered consumable components and are covered under warranty only for manufacturing defects within 90 days of purchase. Normal capacity degradation is not covered.

Any injury, damage, or loss resulting from improper handling, misuse, modification, or unauthorized battery replacement is not the responsibility of W0AEZ Radio Gear LLC.

Liability limitations are governed by the W0AEZ Terms of Service.

10. Compliance With Safety Standards

W0AEZ Radio Gear LLC designs products according to applicable safety standards.

Any modification, misuse, or unauthorized battery replacement may compromise safety and void warranties.

11. Seek Professional Assistance

If unsure how to safely handle, replace, or evaluate a lithium battery:

• Contact W0AEZ customer support at kevin@w0aez.com, or
• Consult a qualified technician

12. Disclaimer of Liability

TO THE FULLEST EXTENT PERMITTED BY LAW, W0AEZ RADIO GEAR LLC DISCLAIMS ALL LIABILITY FOR INJURIES, DAMAGES, OR LOSSES ARISING FROM THE USE, MISUSE, OR FAILURE OF LITHIUM BATTERIES, INCLUDING BUT NOT LIMITED TO FIRE, EXPLOSION, PROPERTY DAMAGE, OR PERSONAL INJURY. CUSTOMER ASSUMES ALL RISKS ASSOCIATED WITH LITHIUM BATTERY USE.

By using our products, you acknowledge that you have read and understood this Lithium Battery Safety Disclosure and agree to follow all listed guidelines.

W0AEZ Radio Gear LLC – 2025