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Drills come in two types – cordless and corded. You need electricity to power your corded drill, but a cordless one runs on a large battery. Most people prefer a cordless drill because it is easier to take with you to a job site and maneuver while working.
As a battery-powered tool, the power aspect is the most critical part. Without it, the drill doesn’t run or work.
The issue is that batteries don’t last forever. Before purchasing a cordless drill, you should ask yourself: how long do cordless drill batteries usually last?
Here’s what you should know:
Makita BL1830B-2 18V LXT Lithium-Ion 3.0Ah Battery Consistent power
2Pack 4.0Ah 18 Volt Replacement Battery for Milwaukee 18V Longer Lasting
Ibanti 18 Volt 3.6Ah P100 P101 Safety & Stability
FirstPower 6.0Ah Replacement Battery DCB205 DCB204 Charge Stable
How Long Do They Last?
It depends on the drill brand you choose and the size of its battery. With that, you have to think of how you use the cordless drill and manage it. In terms of how long each battery charge lasts, it could be anywhere from a few hours to a few weeks. You have to consider how many times you run it and for how long.
Typically, a battery of that size also loses its ability to hold a charge with time. That said, you may find that you use it less before it must be charged again. However, if the cordless drill battery is managed well, it can last anywhere from three to five years or longer.
Ways to Improve Battery Life
It’s important to know what kind of battery you have. Many cordless drills on the market now use Nickel Cadmium, Nickel Metal Hydride, or Lithium-ion (Li-ion) batteries.
Here are the ways to improve the battery life of your cordless drill:
Keep It Charged
Most people choose to fully charge the battery on their drill before they store it. While that’s a good thing and can ensure that you have some power when you need it, that’s not always the best idea. If you store the battery for a few weeks, it could gradually lose its charge.
Therefore, it’s best to keep it charged all the time. If you can, maintain the battery level at 70 percent or more.
Nickel Cadmium and Nickel Metal Hydride batteries might have to be discharged fully once a month. Otherwise, they should have a 20 percent charge, at least.
Lithium-ion batteries should never be completely discharged. However, a partial discharge once a month can improve their lifespans.
Use It Regularly
The biggest issue with cordless drill batteries is that they’re designed to be used frequently. You can severely lower the lifespan of the battery if you charge it all the time but don’t use it.
If you don’t think you can use the tool regularly (once a week or so), it might be better to go with a corded drill. Then, you just unplug it when you don’t need it.
Fully Charge It
Most people tend to use the cordless drill until the battery is drained or very low. If that’s the case, make sure you fully charge it when you’re done. Many battery chargers now indicate the charge level, making it easier for you to see.
However, if you use a Lithium-ion battery, you don’t necessarily have to charge it completely. They actually work better and last longer on a partial charge.
Don’t Overcharge the Battery
Typically, battery chargers are technologically advanced now, so they can’t be overcharged. In a sense, they stop the flow of electricity so that there’s no issue.
Still, it’s best not to leave the battery in the charger all the time. For one, you’re wasting electricity, but you also risk damaging the battery. Unplug your charger and remove the battery from it, storing each separately.
Store the Battery Correctly
To improve the lifespan of your battery, make sure to store it in a dry and cool place. You may also want to purchase a cushioned bag or carrying case so that you don’t risk dropping and damaging the battery.
If you do get a carrying case (and some cordless drills come with one), you can keep all the parts together. That means it’s easier to grab and go when you need the tool.
Have a Backup
Most cordless drills come with a battery. However, you should always keep a spare on hand. That way, if you have a large job, you can switch them out without having to wait two or three hours to charge it up again.
Conclusion
It’s crucial to have a reliable cordless drill to use when you need it. Therefore, you should always test the battery before taking it on a job. With that, the tips above can help you improve the lifespan of the battery so that it lasts longer.
