How to Extend the Battery Life on Your Cordless Tool
Cordless power tools are a game-changer — no cables, no limits, and no hassle on-site. But there’s one thing every tradesperson or DIYer knows: batteries don’t last forever. From short runtime to outright failure, worn-out batteries can cost you time, money, and patience.
The good news? A few simple changes to how you use, charge and store your batteries can make a big difference. Here's how to get more life from your cordless tool batteries — and how the Battery Saver can help.
Understand What Drains Battery Life
Most cordless tools today use lithium-ion batteries. They’re powerful, lightweight and fast to charge — but they can wear down quickly if not looked after.
Common causes of battery damage:
- Overheating (from storage or heavy use)
- Overcharging (especially when left on the charger too long)
- Deep discharging (letting it run to zero too often)
- Vibration & loose connections (more on that shortly)
If you’ve noticed your tool shutting off unexpectedly or batteries dying faster than they used to, it’s likely due to one or more of these factors.
1. Don’t Let Batteries Fully Drain
It’s a common myth that you should fully drain a battery before recharging — but for lithium-ion, that’s actually harmful. These batteries perform best when kept between 20–80% charged.
Pro Tip: Recharge when you notice performance dipping — don’t wait for it to die completely.
2. Avoid Heat (and Cold)
Batteries hate extreme temperatures. Leaving them in a hot van, cold garage, or charging straight after intense use can shorten their lifespan.
- After heavy use: Let the battery cool before charging.
- For storage: Keep batteries in a dry, temperate environment — not in your tool bag or left in the tool overnight.
3. Charge Properly (and Don’t Overdo It)
Always use the charger recommended by your tool’s manufacturer. Generic or mismatched chargers can overheat the battery or reduce performance over time.
- Unplug once charged — don’t leave batteries on the charger overnight.
- Clean the terminals regularly to keep the connection healthy.
4. Secure the Connection While You Work
Here’s something most people overlook: vibration.
When using high-powered tools, the vibration and movement can loosen the connection between the battery and the tool. This causes:
- Power interruptions
- Excess friction on the terminals
- More wear on both the tool and battery
That’s where the Battery Saver comes in.
This simple tool straps your battery securely in place to reduce vibration friction, protect the battery, and help prevent mid-job cut-outs.
"It keeps your tool running — and your battery protected — without constantly having to push it back into place."
5. Store and Transport with Care
Batteries are tough, but not indestructible. Throwing them loose into a toolbox or leaving them inside tools between jobs can shorten their life.
- Store batteries in protective cases or padded compartments.
- Never leave batteries attached to tools for long periods.
- Avoid moisture, dust, and sharp impacts during transit.
6. Rotate Batteries to Reduce Wear
If you’re using multiple batteries during the day (which you should!), make sure you’re rotating them regularly.
Using the same battery over and over puts all the wear on one pack, meaning it’ll give up before the others even get going.
7. Know When It’s Time to Replace
Even with the best care, batteries will eventually wear out. Here are signs yours may need replacing:
- The battery loses charge quickly
- It won’t hold a charge at all
- It gets hot or bloated
- It disconnects easily (again — the Battery Saver can help prevent this!)
Don’t throw old batteries in the bin. Recycle them at your local tool store or recycling centre.
8. What NOT to Do
To wrap up, here are a few habits to break:
- Don’t use damaged batteries
- Don’t charge them near water or in damp areas
- Don’t ignore loose battery connections — that friction adds up
- Don’t force a battery into place (secure it with a Battery Saver instead)
Final Thoughts
Cordless tools are built for convenience — but to keep them running at their best, your batteries need the right care.
- Keep them charged smartly
- Store them safely
- Reduce vibration wear with the Battery Saver
Protect your tools. Protect your time.