Batteries, as essential as they are to your tool, are not immune to wear and tear or damage. Not every issue that arises is due to factory defects, some issues are the result of improper use or care. To keep your batteries going strong and lengthen its life span, you need to be aware of certain factors that may bring harm to it. Let’s take a look at ten things that could drain the life out of your tool’s heart – the battery.
Overcharging
Overcharging your power tool batteries can drastically reduce their lifespan. It’s a common misconception that longer charging times add more power – on the contrary, keeping your battery in the charger way past the necessary time can damage it. Adhering to the recommended charging durations is key as there are a lot of dangers of overcharging your batteries which you might not be aware of.
Deep Discharging
It might seem logical to use your power tool battery until it’s entirely drained before recharging, but this isn’t the case. Frequently allowing your power tool battery to reach ‘deep discharge’ can decrease its capacity and cause irreversible damage. Recharge batteries before they are fully depleted.
High Temperatures
Heat and power tool batteries aren’t a good mix. Using or storing your batteries in environments with high temperatures can trigger overheating and damage your battery over time. Ensure your storage space is optimally cool to avoid such problems. Tools tend to get hot and this heat is conducted to the batter too. Keep spare batteries on hand to switch to in case your current one is heating up.
Cold Temperatures
Cold conditions can also adversely affect power tool batteries. Extremely cold temperatures can make your battery lose its charge at a faster pace. Try to maintain a standard room temperature for your batteries when you’re in a colder environment, if you can.
Prolonged Periods of Inactivity
Batteries dislike being idle. Keeping your power tool battery unused for extended periods can diminish its charge capacity and potentially lead to permanent damage. Try to use your power tools occasionally, even if it’s a relatively inactive period. Lithium batteries actually last longer if they undergo regular charge-discharge cycles instead of being stored without usage.
Improper Storage
Proper storage of power tool batteries is crucial for their overall health. If you store batteries in damp or humid conditions, it can lead to corrosion damaging the battery’s interior. Opt for dry and cool storage spaces for your batteries.
Using Incompatible Chargers
Using a charger that isn’t specifically designed for your power tool battery could lead to overcharging, undercharging, or even immediate damage. Always use the original charger or one that is tried-and-tested by the industry.
Dropping or Physical Damage
Physical damage such as dropping or hitting batteries can significantly reduce battery life. A hard impact can impair the battery’s internal parts. Handle your power tools and their batteries with care to avoid such damage. Lithium-ion batteries are incredibly dangerous, especially when damaged physically, keep them safe!
Excessive Load
Putting undue strain on your power tools by consistently operating them at their maximum capacity can have an adverse effect on the battery. Running the tools at full power for prolonged periods drains the battery faster and causes more wear and tear. We recommend you rotate batteries if you’re going to be using your tool for a long time. You’ll prolong their life significantly and save money in the long run.
Frequently Asked Questions
You’ve got questions, we’ve got answers. Here are some frequently asked questions and their answers to help you better understand the care and maintenance of your power tool batteries.
Should I discharge batteries before storing them?
Yes, but only partially! It’s typically recommended to partially discharge lithium-ion batteries before storing them for an extended period. They should be kept at around 40-60% of their total capacity. Storing them at full charge or when completely drained could potentially shorten their lifespan.
Are cheaper, non-branded power tool batteries OK to use?
Cheaper, non-branded power tool batteries can be tempting due to the cost savings. However, it’s crucial to remember that not all batteries are created equal. Lower-cost alternatives may not match the performance and safety standards of their branded counterparts.
Before making a decision, do your due diligence. Research online, check customer reviews and ratings, and weigh the pros and cons. Despite the initial cost saving, cheaper options might not provide the reliability and lifespan you need, which might result in more frequent replacements and potential damage to your tool. Quality always outweighs the cost in the long run so spend an extra moment to research!
My battery is behaving strangely or overheating. What should I do?
Overheating or strange behavior from your power tool battery is typically a sign that something isn’t quite right. An unusually hot battery could be a sign of overuse, overcharging, or internal damage. Do not ignore these signs. Stop using the tool immediately, remove the battery, and allow it to cool down.
If the problem persists, it’s probably time to order a new battery! Safety is paramount when dealing with batteries, so it’s best not to take any risks.
