Cordless Tool Batteries
Nothing is more frustrating than preparing to use your favorite cordless tool only to find out that the battery is dead or to take cordless tool batteries from the charger and find that they have gone “dead” prematurely. Thus is the frustration of the cordless tool enthusiast, correct? Not anymore. Thanks to the new generation of cordless tool batteries, more and more people are enjoying their cordless tools and getting more use from them, without the hassle and expense of replacing old-style batteries that aren’t efficient and didn’t provide that much working power in the first place. In addition to replacing your cordless tool batteries with the latest batteries on the market, you can keep your cordless tool batteries in optimal shape by taking proper care of them. Here are some tips for doing just that.
Avoid Heat
Cordless tool batteries that are exposed to continual heat will have a shorter lifespan, which means you’ll be out more money to replace them. Keep the battery charger in a cool place. If you’re constantly recharging your cordless tool batteries in the heat of the garage, you can plan on spending a ton of cash for replacements.
Avoid Damage
Cordless tool batteries and their “packs” are not made of indestructible material. Don’t be careless with your batteries; if you crack the battery’s housing, the battery will be no good. Store the battery in the case with the tool if you can or purchase a soft tool bag to cushion the battery from harm until you’re ready to use it again.
Avoid Getting Wet
Although it seems like common sense, avoid getting cordless tool batteries wet. The pack and the batteries should stay clean and dry. Wipe off any moisture as soon as you discover it and don’t use your tool in the rain.
Avoid Charging for Long Periods
While there are two schools of thought on whether you should let cordless tool batteries drain completely or leave some charge in them before recharging, it really makes no difference in battery life – so the urban legend is officially debunked. A good idea, however, is to keep an extra battery charged up and ready to go if you have a habit of letting your battery run down until it’s completely empty. Avoid, however, letting your battery charge for periods of time longer than it needs to completely recharge itself, which can deplete cells within cordless tool batteries and end up making your battery worthless over time.