3 Habits That Kill Your Power Tool Batteries (And What to Do Instead)
Power tools are a lifeline on any job, whether you're working on a roof, in a workshop, or on a weekend DIY project. But even the best tools are only as reliable as the batteries powering them — and if you’re unknowingly shortening your battery’s lifespan, you’re not just wasting time… you're wasting money.
Here are three common habits that kill power tool batteries — and what you should be doing instead.
1. Leaving Batteries in Tools After Use
The Problem:
When you're done for the day, it's tempting to just toss your tool back into the bag or van with the battery still attached. But this habit can lead to long-term damage.
Even when the tool is switched off, vibration during transport or storage can cause micro-movements that gradually wear out the connection points between the battery and the tool. This constant friction can weaken the locking mechanism, damage terminals, and reduce overall performance.
What to Do Instead:
- Always remove the battery when storing your tools.
- Store batteries in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and moisture.
- Keep terminals clean and dust-free.
Quick Fix:
To reduce movement while the tool is in use, consider using a Battery Saver strap. It holds your battery securely in place, minimising vibration damage and keeping your battery connection solid.
2. Overcharging or Leaving Batteries on the Charger
The Problem:
Modern lithium-ion batteries are pretty smart — many chargers will stop actively charging once the battery is full. But leaving batteries plugged in for days at a time still causes heat build-up, and heat is one of the biggest enemies of battery health.
Consistently overcharging shortens the life of your battery cells, and over time, it can cause batteries to hold less charge or fail completely.
What to Do Instead:
- Unplug the battery once it's fully charged.
- If your charger has an LED indicator, use it to check charge status.
- Let your battery cool down before recharging it — charging a hot battery reduces its lifespan.
Pro Tip:
Charge your batteries right before you need them. Avoid keeping them fully charged in storage for long periods.
3. Using Tools with Loose or Worn Battery Connections
The Problem:
When a battery doesn’t click in securely — or jiggles loose during use — it’s more than just annoying. Loose connections lead to arcing (tiny sparks), inconsistent power, and even full disconnection mid-task.
This is especially risky if you’re working at height or with high-torque tools, where sudden loss of power could cause injury or damage.
What to Do Instead:
- Check the battery connection before each use.
- Clean dirty or worn terminals.
- If your battery doesn't click in properly, stop using it until the issue is fixed.
Simple Solution:
The Battery Saver strap adds an extra layer of security to your tool setup. It wraps around your battery and tool, holding everything firmly in place — no more slipping, no more interruptions. It’s an easy way to protect your gear and stay safer on the job.
Bonus: How to Make Your Batteries Last Even Longer
- Don’t store batteries fully charged or fully flat — aim for 40–60% if storing for weeks.
- Avoid extreme heat and cold, which can degrade the battery’s internal chemistry.
- Use multiple batteries in rotation to prevent overworking one pack.
- Use compatible chargers only — mixing brands can sometimes cause issues.
Final Thoughts
Your power tool batteries work hard. With a few small changes in how you use, charge, and store them, you can extend their lifespan and reduce unnecessary replacements.
And if battery movement is a problem on-site, the Battery Saver is a simple, effective fix. Designed by tradespeople, for tradespeople — it keeps your battery locked in and your tools working like they should.