š PRO Tip: Caring for Your Rechargeable Tool Batteries
Your cordless tools are only as good as the batteries that power them! A little bit of care goes a long way toward keeping them reliable, long-lasting, and safe.
ā Charging Habits
- Donāt run them completely dead. Lithium-ion batteries are healthiest when you avoid full discharge. Try to recharge when they hit about 20ā30%.
- Top them up regularly. Partial charges are perfectly fine for modern lithium-ion batteries.
- Avoid āpermanent parkingā on the charger. Itās okay to leave a battery charging overnight, but donāt keep it plugged in for weeks on end.
š”ļø Storage & Handling
- Keep at room temperature. Heat shortens battery life, and freezing temps reduce performance. Store in a dry place, not the truck bed or a cold shed.
- Long-term storage? If you wonāt use a battery for a while, store it at about half charge (40ā60%) rather than full or empty.
- Rotate your batteries. If you own several, cycle them so they all wear evenly.
š§¹ Maintenance
- Clean the contacts. Wipe the terminals with a dry cloth occasionally to ensure a good electrical connection.
- Inspect for damage. Donāt use a swollen, cracked, or leaking battery. Dispose of damaged batteries properly at a recycling center.
ā»ļø Bonus Tip
- Old or dead batteries should never go in the trash.Ā You can locate your nearest recycling depot at the Saskatchewan Waste Reduction Council.
š Remember: Proper care not only extends the life of your batteries but also keeps your tools running strong when you need them most.