Look after your Power Tool Batteries
Power tools aren't cheap any more, so it makes sense to take care of them and extend their lifespan.
31/05/2019
You can imagine that hosting DIY Divas workshops and doing projects on a regular basis requires that my power tools be kept in the best condition possible. Power tools aren't cheap anymore and especially the lithium ion powered tools. For me personally, it makes a lot of sense to care for and maintain my power tools so that I extend their lifespan.
If you have lithium-ion powered power tools, here are some tips to get the most of them and to get the most out of your investment.
• Store the batteries
It is common sense to store batteries in a safe place. It is best to store batteries separate from the tools and in a cool, dry cabinet or drawer. After use, remove the battery from the tool and charge it, that way the battery is charged and ready for use when you need it.
GOOD TO KNOW: Keep your batteries away from moisture or humid environments.
Extreme temperatures can affect battery performance, so it is important to store batteries in a dry place at normal room temperature.
For best charging results, keep the battery contact surfaces and battery charger contacts clean by rubbing them with an eraser every time you charge the batteries.
• Charge the batteries
If you don't use your tools very often it's a good idea to take out the batteries every 3 months or so to give it a quick charge, as the batteries tend to lose charge when left for long periods.
• Replacement batteries
No batteries will last forever, especially if you use your tools a lot, and sooner or later a battery may need to be replaced. When a battery no longer charges or the charge is greatly reduced, a quality brand name will offer replacement batteries that can be used in conjunction with your power tools.
• Safely dispose of batteries
Many people tend to think that throwing a battery in the bin won't do much damage, but if everyone has that same attitude it could have serious ecological impact. Whether your power tools are still using the old NiCad (nickel cadmium) batteries, or the latest Lithium-Ion batteries, it is important to dispose of these in a safe way. All batteries contain harmful chemicals that should not be trashed. Disposing of batteries at a recycling centre will ensure that materials can be recovered and re-used.
If you need to dispose of rechargeable lithium or lithium ion batteries, be on the lookout for battery recycling centres or green waste disposal organisations. Certain retailers often make arrangements to collect batteries for recycling.
Safe disposal of old batteries at a recycling centre is not only good for the environment, it also reduces the risk of harmful contamination and pollution and eliminates the need to produce more raw materials.