The battery is the heart of your tools.
A tool suddenly dying or not working up to par can be frustrating when you’re in the middle of a job, so don’t put off replacing batteries when needed. Even when you properly store your batteries and tools, wear and tear happen naturally over time.
In order to not damage your tools or injure yourself, it’s important to know when you should replace your tool batteries.
HOW TO FIND OUT THE LIFESPAN OF A TOOL
Each of your batteries has a life cycle, which is the number of times it can be charged before needing to be replaced. Most lithium batteries last between two and five years, which is about 300 to 1,000 charging cycles. When you get a new battery for a tool, take a moment to jot down the month and year somewhere so you don’t have to guess how old each battery for each tool is. When a battery gets to be around three years old, keep an extra eye out to see if it’s charging and working like usual.
SIGNS TO LOOK OUT FOR
If your tool’s battery isn’t charging like it used to – taking longer to charge or not holding a charge as long – that's a sign it’s ready to be replaced. While it might be tempting to use a battery until it completely dies, don’t use weak or faulty batteries. It's not good for the battery and it can damage the tool, and using a damaged tool can damage what you’re building or cause you to get injured.
Another sign to look out for is any odor or corrosion. Replace batteries right away if they have either of these issues.
If your tool doesn’t turn on at all, that’s the clearest sign that it needs a new battery.
REPLACING BATTERIES VS. THE TOOL ITSELF
If you aren’t sure if you need to get new batteries or replace some tools altogether, bring them into Miller’s Building Supply and we can help you determine what’s going on. We offer tool rental and repair services so you never have to go without the tools you need, even if you’re waiting on a new battery. Sometimes a diagnosis may not be that you need a new battery, but that the tool itself needs repaired.
EXTENDING BATTERIES
To take care of your batteries so they last as long as possible, always allow them to cool off before use if they’re hot to the touch. Allow batteries to cool before charging, too. Store batteries in a cool and dry place.
If you need new power tools, to rent tools, or to get a tool repaired, Miller’s Building Supply is the place to go. Stop by and see us at 1918 East Monroe St in Goshen or view what we carry online.