For tradies, technicians, and electrical contractors, power tools are more than just tools. They are an essential part of the job that can make the difference between a successful project and a frustrating failure. But nothing is worse than a dead battery in the middle of a job. That's why it's important to know how to take care of your power tool batteries and extend their lifespan as much as possible.
This article details several techniques to revitalise your power tool battery's lifespan and ensure it never runs out of juice when you need it most.
Proper Charging and Discharging Cycles
The longevity of power tool batteries heavily relies on their charging and discharging cycle. Each battery type has unique constraints and conditions governing its charging and discharging regime. Specific charging regimes or charge controllers may also be necessary for certain types of batteries.
For example, Nickel-cadmium (NiCad) and nickel-metal hydride (NiMH) batteries should be nearly discharged before charging, unlike lead-acid batteries, which should never be fully discharged. Lithium-ion batteries, on the other hand, perform best when deeply discharged and excel in high-voltage input and output applications - making them perfect for power tools, electric vehicles, and mobility devices.
Furthermore, each type of battery requires a unique voltage and current during the charge cycle. Using a charger or controller for one type on another type would be ineffective. To avoid issues with charging and discharging, always refer to the manufacturer's guidelines.
Store the Batteries Appropriately
Storing batteries correctly is as important as charging and discharging cycles. A cool and dry place is among the primary storage requirements of batteries because heat and moisture cause a lot of damage to the battery's cells.
Keep the batteries away from direct sunlight and avoid leaving them in your vehicle, especially over prolonged periods. It's also recommended that you store your battery with a full charge and not let it sink to discharge levels.
Use the Power Tool Regularly
Using your power tools regularly not only saves time but helps maintain the battery's health too. Leaving your batteries unused for a long time degrades their performance. Every power tool brand has a recommended period for charging their battery; follow those instructions to keep the battery in good shape.
Makita, Milwaukee, and Dewalt are some of the most popular power tool brands on the market, and you can easily find their compatible batteries online.
Perform Regular Maintenance
Regular maintenance is the key to extending the lifespan of any device, and power tool batteries are no exception. Keep it clean and ensure that the battery terminals are not covered with debris or rust.
The terminals facilitate the transfer of power from the battery to the power tool, and any obstruction may prevent them from working efficiently. If you notice any sign of corrosion, use a mixture of baking soda and water to clean the terminals and wipe them with a dry cloth.
Upgrade to Higher-Capacity Batteries
If you want to increase your power tool's runtime, consider upgrading to higher-capacity batteries with the same voltage. They are a little more expensive, but they provide additional power to the tool, so they last longer. Make sure you purchase the correct replacement battery that is compatible with your power tool since battery size and shape vary by model.
In Summary
Taking care of your power tool batteries is vital in maximising their lifespan. Proper charging, storing, and maintenance of batteries are a must. Use your power tool regularly and avoid leaving it unused for long periods. Replacing the battery is always expensive and hassling, so try to invest in higher-capacity batteries with the same voltage for longer runtime.
By implementing these straightforward techniques, you can revitalise and maximise the lifespan of your power tool battery. without the need for frequent replacements, which will ultimately save you time and money.
