Cordless drills are indispensable tools for DIY enthusiasts and professionals alike. They offer mobility and convenience, but one common issue users face is a dead battery. Over time, cordless drill batteries can lose their charge and fail to perform at their optimal level. Fortunately, there are ways to revive these batteries and extend their lifespan, saving you the cost of replacements.
In this blog post, we’ll explore what a cordless drill battery is, why they die, and how to revive them with step-by-step instructions.
Table of Contents
What is a Cordless Drill Battery?
A cordless drill battery is a rechargeable power source that allows a drill to operate without the need for a constant connection to an electrical outlet. These batteries are typically lithium-ion (Li-ion), nickel-cadmium (NiCd), or nickel-metal hydride (NiMH). Each type has its pros and cons, but they all have a limited lifespan and will eventually need recharging or replacement.
Cordless drill batteries come in various voltage levels, from 12V to 20V or more, providing different levels of power for specific tasks.
What is a Dead Cordless Drill Battery?
A “dead” cordless drill battery refers to a battery that can no longer hold a charge or provide sufficient power to the drill. In most cases, a dead battery can be the result of improper maintenance, overcharging, or simply reaching the end of its natural life cycle. However, a dead battery doesn’t always mean it needs to be thrown away—sometimes, it can be revived with the proper steps.
Why do cordless drill batteries die?
Cordless drill batteries die for several reasons, including:
- Age: All batteries have a limited number of charge cycles. As they age, they lose their ability to hold a charge.
- Overcharging: Leaving a battery on the charger for too long can damage its cells, reducing its lifespan.
- Undercharging: Not charging the battery fully can lead to a memory effect, especially with NiCd batteries.
- Poor Storage Conditions: Batteries left in extreme temperatures or humid environments can degrade more quickly.
Understanding these factors is key to preventing battery death and knowing how to revive them.
Read More: How to Store Cordless Drill Batteries Efficiently
Disposal and recycling of cordless drill batteries
Before attempting to revive a battery, it’s important to consider its condition. If a battery is too damaged or old to be revived, it should be disposed of properly. Most rechargeable batteries contain hazardous materials and should be taken to a recycling facility, rather than thrown in the trash.
Recycling your battery ensures that its components can be reused and keeps toxic chemicals out of landfills. Many home improvement stores offer battery recycling programs, so take advantage of them when it’s time to dispose of your old battery.
Check Also: Cordless Drills Under 100 Dollars Review.
How to Revive Cordless Drill Batteries Step by Step
Here’s a step-by-step guide to reviving your dead cordless drill battery.
Step 1: Charge The Battery
First, try recharging the battery in its original charger. Sometimes, a battery that seems dead simply needs an extended charging session. Leave the battery on the charger for a few hours to see if it regains its charge. Make sure the charger is plugged in and functioning properly.
Step 2:Remove The Battery
After attempting to charge, remove the battery from the charger and let it cool down if it feels warm. This is especially important for Li-ion batteries, which can overheat.
Step 3: Check The Voltage
Using a multimeter, check the battery’s voltage. If the reading is below the recommended voltage level (usually indicated on the battery label), the battery may need to be revived using another method. A healthy 18V battery, for instance, should read around 18V when fully charged.
Step 4: Clear The Dust And Dirt
Dirt and debris can sometimes interfere with the battery’s connection to the drill or charger. Clean the battery contacts with a dry cloth to ensure a good connection. If necessary, use a small amount of rubbing alcohol to clean off any corrosion.
Step 5: Replace The Battery If Necessary
If the battery still doesn’t hold a charge after attempting to revive it, it may need to be replaced. Look for a compatible replacement battery that matches the voltage and type of your drill.
Read More: How to Charge a Cordless Drill Without the Charger?
What are the symptoms of a dead cordless drill battery?
- The battery won’t hold a charge for more than a few minutes.
- The drill powers off during use even after charging.
- The battery gets excessively hot when charging.
- The drill works only when plugged in (if it’s a hybrid model).
- Slow charging or failure to charge at all.
If you notice any of these symptoms, your battery might be dead or dying and could benefit from revival techniques.
Read More: How Much Amps Does A Corded Drill Use?
How to Revive a Dead Cordless Drill Battery
There are a few ways to attempt to revive a dead cordless drill battery:
Read More: What is The Lightest Cordless Drill?
1. Revive A Dead Cordless Drill Battery with a New Battery
If you have a fresh, fully charged battery, you can use it to “jump-start” the dead battery. Connect the positive and negative terminals of the good battery to the corresponding terminals of the dead one with wires or jumper cables. Let them transfer power for a few minutes, then try charging the dead battery again.
2. Revive A Dead Cordless Drill Battery with Charger & New Battery
If your charger has a refresh function or a slow charge option, try charging the dead battery on a low setting. A new battery paired with the charger can also be used to trigger a charge in the dead battery.
3. Revive A Dead Cordless Drill Battery with Another Drill
Sometimes, placing the dead battery in another drill with compatible voltage can help revive it. Run the drill briefly to kick-start the battery and then place it back in the charger.
When to replace your cordless drill battery?
There will come a point when reviving a battery is no longer effective. If the battery doesn’t hold a charge after several attempts or its capacity significantly decreases over time, it’s time to replace it. Typically, cordless drill batteries last for 2-3 years with regular use.
Warning signs that your cordless drill battery needs to be replaced
- The battery won’t charge even after extended periods on the charger.
- The drill loses power rapidly after a short period of use.
- There’s visible damage to the battery, such as cracks or leaks.
- The battery heats up excessively during charging or use.
If any of these signs are present, it’s a strong indication that your battery needs to be replaced.
Read More: How Long Does it Take to charge a Drill Battery?
FAQS About How to Revive Cordless Drill Batteries
What causes a cordless drill to stop working?
A cordless drill can stop working due to a dead or damaged battery, faulty connections, or a malfunctioning motor. Checking the battery and ensuring proper contact between the battery and the drill is the first step in diagnosing the issue.
What are the best ways to revive a cordless drill battery?
The best methods for reviving a cordless drill battery include jump-starting it with another battery, using a low charger setting, or using an alternative charging method like connecting it to a car battery (with caution).
How long will it take the battery to charge?
On average, a cordless drill battery can take between 1-3 hours to charge, depending on the battery type and charger. Reviving a dead battery may take longer, depending on the method used.
How often should you charge a battery if it is not in use?
To maintain optimal performance, it’s recommended to charge a cordless drill battery every 1-2 months if not in use. This prevents the battery from fully discharging, which can degrade its lifespan.
Last Thought
Reviving a dead cordless drill battery can save you time and money, but it’s important to use the right techniques to avoid damaging the battery or drill. Whether using a new battery, jump-starting with another battery, or simply cleaning the terminals, you have several options to bring your cordless drill back to life. However, when a battery shows clear signs of deterioration, replacing it is the best course of action to maintain the efficiency of your tools. With proper care, you can extend the lifespan of your cordless drill battery and keep your tools in excellent working condition.
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