Cordless tool batteries stay ready when you charge them with the matching charger, store them in moderate conditions and rotate them through use. The maker’s manual is the final word on charging and storage.
Use the Right Charger
Charge a battery only with the charger the maker specifies for it. Chargers and packs are designed together, and mixing unlike ones can damage the pack or create a hazard. Keep the charger on a hard, clean, dry surface with air around it, and never cover it while it works.
Good Charging Habits
- Let a hot battery cool before charging if the manual says to, as heavy use can warm the pack.
- Charge in a dry, moderate-temperature room, not in a freezing garage or in direct sun.
- Watch the charger’s indicator and follow its meaning from the manual.
- Remove the pack when charging is done unless the manual says leaving it on is fine.
- Do not use a pack that is swollen, leaking, cracked or has been dropped hard; set it aside and follow local rules for disposal.
Storage Between Jobs
Many makers suggest storing packs partly charged rather than empty or full for long periods, in a cool, dry place, away from metal objects that could bridge the terminals. Check your manual for the exact advice for your battery type, because it varies.
- Keep terminals covered or packs in a case.
- Do not store loose in a drawer with keys, coins or fasteners.
- Avoid hot vehicles and cold, damp sheds.
- Label packs with the date you began rotating them, if you keep several.
Quick Reference
| Situation | Habit | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Frequent use | Rotate two or more packs | Spreads wear and heat |
| Long idle period | Store partly charged, cool and dry, per manual | Limits stress on the cells |
| Cold weather | Bring packs indoors before use | Cold reduces performance |
| Hot weather | Keep out of vehicles | Heat can damage packs |
| Damaged pack | Stop using it | Damaged cells can be hazardous |
Never open, puncture or burn a battery. When a pack reaches the end of its life, take it to a local collection point and follow local rules for battery recycling.
If you keep several packs, number them with a small label and use them in order. That makes it easy to see which ones are aging faster and helps you plan when a replacement will be needed. Keep the manual for the charger nearby so you can check what each indicator light means.
FAQ
Can I leave a battery on the charger?
Many modern chargers manage this, but the manual decides. If it is not mentioned, take the pack off when charging finishes.
Why does my battery run out faster than it used to?
Batteries wear with age and use, and heat speeds that up. If runtime drops a lot, consult the maker about a replacement.
The Short Version
Use the matching charger, avoid heat and freezing, store packs as the manual says and rotate them. Retire damaged packs through local collection.