How to make your power tool batteries last longer
Follow these simple tricks to make the lithium ion (Li-ion) batteries in your cordless tools last longer so you get the most out of your investment.
1. When should I charge?
Charge your batteries when you notice a decrease in performance of your tool. Modern Lithium Ion batteries don’t have the ‘memory effect’ of older Ni-Cad batteries so you don’t have to wait until it’s fully discharged. In fact, frequent deep discharging is actually worse for them and will reduce battery life.
2. How should I store my battery?
Keep your battery in a cool dry place. Heat is your battery’s worst enemy so storing it in a hot place, like a car or exposed metal shed, can damage the battery and reduce its life. Take the battery out of the tool and charge it to about 50% capacity. If storing for longer than six months, give it a quick charge to bring it back up to around 50 per cent. The easiest way to remind yourself is to quickly pop a reminder in your phone.
3. How do I know when it’s time to replace?
Even with the best care, batteries will deteriorate over time and replacement will be needed. The most obvious sign that your battery has gone is when it doesn’t last very long after being fully charged. Another sign is that it takes a long time for your battery to charge. Most good quality tools have smart chargers and they can detect when a battery is on its last legs and will let you know via its display.
4. How do I dispose of old batteries?
Once your battery had had it, don’t just throw it into the bin. Lithium Ion batteries can be recycled so reducing our impact on the environment. To find out where and how you can recycle your batteries, go to batteryrecycling.org.au.
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