What Will Happen If We Connect a Power Bank with Another Power Bank While It Is Charging?

Connecting one power bank to another while they are both charging can lead to a variety of critical issues. This practice is generally not recommended and may result in backfeeding, overheating, charging inefficiency, and even damage to the power banks. In this article, we will delve into the potential risks and provide tips on how to safely manage your power banks.

Backfeeding Risks

Backfeeding occurs when both power banks attempt to charge each other simultaneously. In this scenario, energy is wasted, and the circuitry involved may be damaged. The backfeeding effect can create a loop where neither power bank can effectively charge, leading to prolonged charging times or even to the point of incomplete charging.

Overheating

The internal circuitry of power banks is not always designed to handle the scenario of backfeeding. As both power banks attempt to charge each other, the excessive power exchange can cause overheating. This can be extremely hazardous as it can lead to a fire risk, especially if the power banks do not have adequate protection circuits.

Charging Inefficiency

The charging process can become inefficient when two power banks are connected to each other and attempting to charge simultaneously. As a result, neither power bank might charge effectively, leading to longer charging times or incomplete charging. This inefficiency not only wastes time but also leads to a decrease in the lifespan of the power banks.

Damage to Power Banks

In the worst-case scenario, connecting two power banks to charge each other can result in permanent damage to one or both power banks. This is particularly true if the power banks lack the necessary protection circuits to manage the energy exchange safely.

Understanding Pass-Through Power Banks

It is important to note that not all power banks are the same. Some power banks are designed as pass-through power banks, which allow them to output power even when they are being charged. However, most power banks are not pass-through and turn off their power output when being charged to avoid potential issues such as RF noise and audible noise during charging.

A pass-through power bank can be beneficial for devices that are USB-powered, such as a dash-camera. It can provide additional runtime during a power outage and charge the power bank when power is restored. However, it is crucial to note that there is little to no notification when the battery is low and cannot output any more power, leading to the USB-powered device dying without power.

For most USB-powered devices, using a pass-through power bank provides a viable solution during a power outage. However, it is important to ensure that the power bank is not being overworked and that it has adequate protection circuits. Furthermore, it is recommended to charge the power bank separately to avoid the risks mentioned above.

In conclusion, it is best to avoid connecting power banks to each other while charging. Charge each power bank separately using their designated charging methods to ensure safety and optimal performance.