EVERYONE TALKS ABOUT IT, FEW KNOW ABOUT IT
Do you have everything under control when it comes to using lithium-ion batteries? In our article, you'll learn about 5 common misconceptions and how to best use and care for your batteries to maximize their lifespan .
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"You must always fully discharge the battery before recharging it."
This was indeed the case with older battery technologies, but with lithium-ion batteries, it's not necessary to fully discharge the battery before recharging it. In fact, lithium-ion batteries last longer if you regularly charge them before they're completely discharged. -
"You must not charge the battery overnight, otherwise it will be damaged."
This is also a myth. Modern chargers for lithium-ion batteries are designed to automatically stop charging when the battery is fully charged. Therefore, it's safe to charge the battery overnight if the charger is designed for it. -
"It is bad for the battery to use or store it at low temperatures."
Lithium-ion batteries may lose some performance at low temperatures, but this doesn't necessarily mean it's bad for the battery. A lithium-ion battery can be used safely at low temperatures as long as it isn't overheated or overloaded. When storing the battery, care should be taken to avoid storing it in extremely low temperatures, as this can lead to battery damage. -
"It's better to always fully charge the battery rather than only partially charge it."
That's not entirely true. Lithium-ion batteries last longer if they're regularly charged before they're completely discharged. However, it's not necessary to always fully charge the battery. In fact, always fully charging the battery can put more strain on the battery, shortening its lifespan. -
"It is safe to open or repair the battery yourself."
This is a dangerous misconception. Lithium-ion batteries are very sensitive and can catch fire or explode if handled improperly or damaged. If the battery is damaged or defective, it should be repaired by a qualified specialist or disposed of properly.
WE HAVE ONE MORE
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"But manufacturer XY has a much better battery system."
Yes, indeed, there are battery cells from different manufacturers, which can also have different chemical compositions. Power tool manufacturers also often pay close attention to the charging and discharging speed of the cells.
TECHNICALLY, EVERYTHING COOKS WITH WATER
Overall, it's fair to say that this isn't relevant for your daily work with such batteries, and 80% of the advertising is based on marketing hype rather than a technological revolution. When installing battery packs from our manufacturers, we ensure that the battery delivers consistent performance over a long period of time. The emphasis here is on performance, i.e., what it can achieve.
Festool, for example, offers a 3-year warranty on battery packs and chargers, just as generous as you do with the tools. Many manufacturers don't offer a warranty on batteries or chargers.
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There are many misconceptions about how to best use and care for lithium-ion batteries. Some of the most common myths include that you should fully discharge the battery before recharging it, that charging the battery overnight is harmful, and that it's okay to use different battery types together.
However, these myths are false and can damage the battery or shorten its lifespan. Instead, you should charge the battery regularly and keep it between 20 and 80 percent capacity. (The chargers our cordless tool manufacturers use to record this in the charge cycle!) Charging the battery overnight is fine, as modern chargers have protection circuits to prevent overcharging. When the battery is not in use, you should store it at around 50 percent capacity to maximize its lifespan, rather than the often-conceived notion that the battery should be full or empty.
WORK WITH THE BATTERY AS OFTEN AND AS MUCH AS YOU CAN, ONLY THEN WILL THE LIFESPAN BE RIGHT!
It's also important that you use the correct charger and battery type for your battery. Do not use chargers or batteries not designed for your device. Avoid rapid charging whenever possible and charge the battery at the recommended charging rate. By following these recommendations, you can maximize the lifespan of your lithium-ion battery and ensure its safe and effective use.
Do you have any questions about this topic? We're happy to help!
