Power Tool Batteries – Important Information About Them

Power tool batteries determine the performance of your cordless tools. So while purchasing a cordless power tool for your household project voltage of the batteries though important is not the only factor to be taken into consideration. Their amp/hour capacity should also be checked before opting for it. Battery cost is the capital cost in any power tools. Such rechargeable batteries have cells with voltage of 1.2V, 1.5V or 3.6V. Batteries with voltage of 3.6V to 12 V are used in light duty tools and high duty tools need 14.4V to 36 V They may last for short time even after being charged because of the “memory effect” in them, which affects their runtime seriously.

Power tool batteries should be used regularly for its smooth functioning. Numerous small batteries together make up one battery. It’s electric current is measured by voltage while how long it will last is determined by ampere hour. They are also available in three types for using in power tools that is

1. Lithium ion also known as Li-ion

2.Nickel Cadmium also known as Ni-cad and

3. Nickel Metal Hydride also known as Ni-MH.

Lithium ion has a life span for more than 1200 charges while Nickel Cadmium will survive 400 charge cycles and thereafter needs to be replaced. Nickel Metal Hydride will last more than 400 charges.

Power tool batteries if overcharged will reduce its life span. It is the most common occurrence that we forget to switch off the battery which is left charging, sometimes overnight. Because of the heat that is generated it damages the battery. You not only spoil your battery, the energy is wasted and you are the risk of electrical fire. To avoid risks and accidents you should take precautionary measures. The new types of batteries have the options of inbuilt cooler fan and sounds to indicate that the charging is over. But none of them switch off automatically. They are costly products and in order to avoid incurring expenses on them it is advisable to take good care of them.

Power tool batteries replacement is a costly affair that all of us are aware of. The latest new service that you might not be cognizant with is the power tool battery rebuilding services. The battery is rebuilt with new cells which are better than the original, improving its performance and life span. In this process whole battery is pulled apart and then the new cells are put in. Even if it sounds simple it is not do-it- yourself kind of a project. Non working batteries make up the most of the wastes and it is hazardous for environment. With advancement in technology the old batteries become unavailable in market and your tool becomes useless too. With rebuilding service you will be able to use your tool as long as you wish.

Without power tool batteries your tool will become ineffective and hence taking good care of it is very important. So do not overcharge your battery resulting in its reduced life span and save your money too.