Do you have a cordless drill? If so, do you know how to store the batteries? Cordless drills are a staple in many homes and workshops. They are incredibly versatile tools that you can use for various tasks.
However, one downside to cordless drills is that the batteries can be fickle. In this post, we will outline a few tips on storing cordless drill batteries to help keep them in good condition.
Table of Contents
What are Cordless Drill Batteries?
Cordless drill batteries are small, cylindrical batteries used in cordless drills. They are typically composed of three cells and are designed to provide long life and high power in a small package.
What are the Process Cordless Drill Batteries?
Cordless drills are viral tools, but they can also be a bit of a battery hog. To help conserve power, it’s essential to know how to store cordless drill batteries. Here are the steps:
- Store cordless drill batteries in a cool, dry place.
- Do not over-charge or over-discharge cordless drill batteries.
- Store cordless drill batteries in their charging case when not in use.
Read More: Charge a Cordless Drills Without Charger.
What Tools Do You Need to Cordless Drill Batteries?
There are a few tools that you will need to store cordless drill batteries properly. One is a battery storage container purchased at most hardware stores. The container should have a tight-fitting lid and be large enough to fit at least four batteries.
Another tool that you will need is a battery charger. This can be a portable unit or a wall outlet specifically designated for charging cordless drill batteries. Ensure that the charger has a rating for the type of battery you are using.
The final tool that you will need is a set of safety goggles. These are necessary to avoid any injuries from an accidental discharge of the drill battery.
- A drill bit that is appropriate for the battery size
- A battery charger
- A screwdriver
- A wrench
- A drill bit guard
Read More: How Long Does it Take to Charge a Battery?
How to Store Cordless Drill Batteries Step by Step Process
Step 1: Remove the Battery from the Drill
The first step is to remove the battery from the drill. You can do this by pressing the release button on the side of the training.
Step 2: Clean the Battery Terminals
Next, you will want to clean the battery terminals. Use a clean, dry cloth to do this. Be sure to remove any dirt or debris blocking the connection between the battery and the drill.
Step 3: Inspect the Battery
When storing a cordless drill battery, it is essential to inspect the battery for damage. Damaged batteries may not hold a charge or produce abnormal readings on a battery tester. If the battery appears damaged, do not use it and replace it with a new battery.
Step 4: Clean the Battery
After using your cordless drill, it is essential to clean the battery to keep it running smoothly. Follow these steps to clean the battery:
- Turn off the drill’s power source
- Remove the battery from the drill
- Wipe down the battery with a dry cloth
- Reattach the battery to the drill
- Plug in the drill to the power source
Step 5: Check the Voltage of the Battery
When it comes to checking the voltage of a battery, there are a few simple steps that you can take. The first is to remove the battery from the tool and check the voltage with a voltmeter. If the voltage is below the required level, the battery needs to be replaced.
If the voltage is above the required level, the battery may still be usable but may need to be recharged more often.
Step 6: Place the Battery in a Plastic Bag
It is essential to store your cordless drill batteries properly to ensure they last as long as possible. Putting them in a plastic bag will help keep them fresh and free from any potential damage.
- Place the battery in a plastic bag.
- Seal the bag tightly.
- Place the bag in a cool, dry place.
- Check the battery every few days to ensure it is still working.
Step 7: Store the Battery in a Cool, Dry Place
It is essential to store your cordless drill batteries properly to ensure their longevity. Make sure to keep the batteries cool and dry, as these conditions will help to extend their life.
- Keep the battery cool and dry.
- Keep the battery wrapped in a protective cover.
- Never leave the battery unattended.
- Charge the battery only when necessary.
Advantage of Store Cordless Drill Batteries
- They are easy to portable.
- They are easy to use and can be operated with just one hand.
- They are durable and can last for a long time.
- They are easy to store and can be easily stored in a drawer.
- No need to carry an extra cord.
- You can use it in tight spaces.
- It can be used for many things.
- You can use it for an extended period.
Disadvantage of Store Cordless Drill Batteries
- They can run out of power quickly.
- They can be difficult to replace.
- They can be expensive to buy.
- They can be challenging to operate.
Will the Storage Affect the Battery’s Charge Level?
Yes, storage will affect this. Over time, all batteries will self-discharge. The best batteries for this purpose are Li-Ion cells. They can maintain a constant or nearly constant charge level for the duration of their storage.
In addition to losing some power during short storage periods, prolonged storage may result in a loss of battery capacity. The most effective method of preventing this loss between uses is to keep the storage temperature above freezing and below 75° Fahrenheit.
Is it Permissible to Leave the Battery On the charger?
Generally, the answer is no. This makes it more challenging to keep the battery safe and may increase the self-discharge rate. Keeping this in mind, there are some chargers and batteries that you can connect for brief periods. It is determined by the cordless drill you are using and the type of battery you have.
When Should the Batteries Remain Connected?
Multiple newer chargers include features that enable you to leave the batteries inside. For instance, DeWalt chargers have a maintenance mode.
This is critical because it allows you to retain the charger’s drill battery until the charger is ready for use.
Before leaving your drill battery in the charger, there are a few critical points to consider. These safeguard the battery inside the charger and include the following:
- Trickle charging helps to compensate for the battery’s self-discharge.
- Charge level testing and power cut-off help prevent overcharging.
- If your charger includes both of these features, you should have no problems leaving the batteries connected to the charger.
When Should You Disconnect the Batteries?
It is always a good idea to read the drill manufacturer’s instructions before leaving the battery connected. Each manufacturer wants the best for their tools and will make recommendations that will extend the life of the drill and battery.
If the manufacturer does not recommend disconnecting the battery during storage, it is best to sever it and properly store it.
This will keep the battery safe and operational for an extended period.
Is it Necessary to Keep the Drill Battery Plugged in?
While you can leave the battery plugged in constantly, this is not a good idea if you want the battery to last longer. There are two primary reasons to avoid this, which include the following:
- The battery will self-discharge at a natural rate. This means that they gradually lose power, even when not in use. Keeping them plugged in increases the rate of self-discharge.
- When you leave the batteries plugged in, the risk of tool failure and accident increases.
- It is always preferable to unplug the batteries and safely store them. If necessary, charge the battery correctly before storing it.
- If the battery is in good condition and does not require charging, you may store it in a sealed container or case until you need to keep it again.
- If you’re pressed for time, store the drill and recharge it before using it again.
- Sure, nickel-based batteries will lose close to 40% of their charge in the first two days of storage, so it is a good idea to charge the battery before using it on a project.
Final Summary
It is critical to store your cordless drill batteries properly. This will extend the battery’s life and ensure that it works for your projects.
While each battery is slightly different, and some newer models may allow for more flexibility in how they are stored, it is best to keep the battery in a secure container away from metal and any moisture that could corrode it.
You can store your cordless drill batteries and get the most life out of them by following these simple steps.
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