Technological advancements have numerous benefits, especially for DIYers and woodworkers. The thought that you can operate the machines and home tools without worrying about the nearest power plug positions and the tripping extension wires has warmed the hearts of every cordless power tool user. Cordless tools offer more flexibility and convenience than corded tools. Besides the convenience, the cordless drills are characterized by a compact and lightweight design that helps reduce hand stress, enhancing extended user time.
However, like with the other devices, the batteries of these models do not last forever. Eventually, you will be forced to replace the cordless drill batteries. Most people seek to determine the average time the batteries can last to plan for the potential inconveniences. This has established the question: How Long do Cordless Drill Batteries Last?
On average, the cordless drill battery can last for 2-3yrs. However, the batteries may last longer if given the proper care and storage. Therefore, for the durability of your cordless drill battery, you must be keen on handling it during and after use and put proper maintenance practices in place.
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Ways of increasing your battery’s lifespan
Depending on how you handle and store your power tool, your cordless battery will take longer before running out. Several factors contribute to your battery’s lifespan. Therefore, you must watch out to save yourself from the frustration that might make you invest in more batteries you weren’t ready for, as it could be too costly.
Below are several ways of ensuring your battery’s lifespan is increased;
Ensure your batteries are charged.
It would be best if you normalized recharging your batteries before they are completely drained out, as this could affect their retention capacity in the future. As soon as you notice a decrease in power, it would be best to consider charging them.
Ensure the batteries are entirely charged before use
The longevity of your battery capacity will depend on how long you let it stay in the charging system. You should ensure the tool is plugged in until it indicates it’s fully charged. Knowing this isn’t a hassle anymore since the charges are designed in a way that will automatically notify you once it’s fully charged.
Use the batteries regularly.
For something to remain relevant, it should constantly be used so that it doesn’t get redundant over time. The same applies to cordless drills, as their battery lifespan decreases with lack of use. Therefore, to avoid this, the tool should always be in action once charged, and if by any chance there is no task to perform, you should prevent consistent charging.
Ensure the cordless power drill is stored correctly after use
Often, we wonder why our batteries’ performance reduces over time, forgetting that our storage methods could be the genesis of all this. After using your drill, storing it in its original carrying case is advisable. To keep it from short-circuiting, terminal breakage, and moisture, you should use the plastic cap to keep it guarded.
Adjust the cordless tool setting.
High power consumption in cordless drills is often due to the kind of setting we use when operating the tool. Higher torque settings run down a cordless drill battery faster; therefore, if you want your battery to serve you longer, you should use the recommended settings. However, this will depend on the task you are working on, as some might require high torque for successful task completion.
Keep the batteries in a cool and dry place.
The longevity of the cordless drill batteries will depend on how best you store them after use. Ensure they are not exposed to water or moisture, but immediately wipe off the water or humidity if this happens. You can ensure this is achieved by finding a drawer in your workshop or garage and storing the tool. Similarly, you can use its original box as storage if you don’t have enough space in your room.
Why you should consider using a cordless drill
Cordless tools have become increasingly popular over the past years because of their excellence and performance. Undoubtedly, these tools are replacing the old and corded versions due to the advanced technology and the fantastic features that have ensured convenience and high performance. Below are some of the reasons why every DIY enthusiast or woodworker will fancy the acquisition of the tool
Convenience
Cordless drills are incredibly convenient as you can pack them quickly and take them wherever duty calls. You can quickly grab it and attend to any task within your house without worrying about attaching it to a power source before beginning your operations. The absence of a cord allows you to use the equipment in different locations. Therefore, with a cordless drill, performing tasks is simpler and more manageable as long as you have a fully charged battery pack.
It is safe to use
Using a cordless drill, You can accomplish more significant projects without compromising your safety. Since the power machine uses batteries, accidents will be minimal. You will not have to worry about tripping over cables anymore. Consequently, the absence of these cables will lower your vulnerability to any electrical problems.
It is portable
Cordless drills are easily portable compared to corded drills. Due to their bulkiness, movement is always limited to tighter spots. Cordless drills offer flexibility and freedom of movement, making it possible to work on tasks that require a lot of movement efficiently. Also, they are easy to hold, handle, and move into tight spots.
It is a powerful tool.
To get your job done, you will require specific tools to help you through this. Some materials might turn out very hard to work with. That’s why you must be very keen and thorough on the type of tool you choose for your specific task. For instance, working on concrete is difficult due to its hard nature. Therefore, you must use a potent tool to penetrate through it. Fortunately, with the cordless drill, you can easily bolt down any furniture or screw into concrete without the worry of getting injured or spending hours completing a minor task.
Features you should look for when buying a cordless drill
Due to diversity in the specification, the power tools exist in different models due to specific needs and demands. Therefore, to avoid making costly mistakes when buying a cordless drill, you should know your specific needs and determine if they align with the tool you want to purchase. Once you know what to look for in a cordless drill, you can quickly narrow your options and buy one that meets your needs and expectations. Some of the features worth considering are;
Battery Capacity
Perhaps the most integral element of consideration when buying a cordless drill battery. When purchasing, choose a model with a short charge time and a long life. The capacity for the drill batteries is measured in Amp-hours (Ah). Thus, you should buy a battery with more Ah, as the higher the Ah, the longer it holds the charge. The battery capacities for the cordless drills range between 1.5Ah and 4.0Ah. Therefore, a battery capacity between 2.5Ah and 4.0Ah will be ideal.
Voltage
You can quickly tell how powerful a cordless drill is by its voltage. When your drill is to perform on more complex material, you should go for a high voltage drill as this will save you from spending a lot of time on a minor task you could complete in no minute. In addition, cordless drills voltages vary depending on the intended use. One intended for ordinary households will not need high power voltage compared to those in commercial and industrial areas.
Torque
Torque is the twisting force that the drill can apply on the work surface. Understanding a drill’s torque setting and how you should operate it is vital when making an excellent purchase. Voltage rating is insufficient as it might not give you the same total power as the drill. Torque makes it convenient for harder surfaces that automatically require more torque and less speed.
Torque and speed have an inverse relationship: as you increase the speed, you decrease torque. Therefore, you should consider drilling at a low speed to access the torque essential for your drilling. However, when woodworking and drilling on softer materials, you don’t have to worry about the torque since nearly all power drills can handle that task.
Chuck Size
Before deciding on a cordless drill unit to buy, ensure you check its chuck size. The chuck represents the hole into which you will slot the drill bits and the other accessories like the rotary sanders or the wire-wheel brushes. For most cordless drills, the chuck sizes are either 10mm or 13mm. You must consider these sizes since they must match your drill bits.
Handles
Most cordless drill models today have a T-handle that significantly prevents hand slippage and enhances battery accommodation. The T-T-handle provides a better balance for batteries since they are centered under the weight and bulk of the motor. T –T-handle drills allow you to get into tighter spaces because your hands are never obstructing your way.
Speed
When purchasing a cordless drill, it’s vital to consider buying drills with a gearing switch, as it will allow you to set your tool to a speed that favors the nature of the task you are handling. You can set the drill gearing for low speed and high torque when working on harder materials or high speed and low torque when working on softer materials like softwoods.
Types of cordless drills on the market
You are always presented with many options to choose from when purchasing. It’s always strenuous sorting through those options to find the drill that meets your needs. However, here are a few choices you can get in any nearby hardware store
Hammer drill
It is used for drilling and driving in plastic, wood, metal, and concrete. They are heavy-duty drills, making them drill quickly and effortlessly into concrete.
Rotary hammer
This tool is convenient for drilling holes or breaking up concrete. It is a heavy-duty version of a hammer drill.
Impact driver
They are designed for heavier work. It’s handy for more significant projects such as building fences, decks, etc. Precisely, they are mainly used for loosening bolts or driving screws.
Frequently Asked Questions-FAQs
Can you leave a drill battery plugged in all the time?
Yes. It would be best to leave the battery plugged in until fully charged. You can easily know if the charger indicates that they are ultimately charged since most chargers are designed in such a way.
Do cordless drill batteries go bad?
Your battery losing power and becoming ineffective should be a red flag. Sometimes, the problem might not be with the charging, but it could be that the battery’s lifespan is over, so this is the time to get yourself new batteries. Therefore, we should learn critically how to differentiate when there is a need for a charge and if there is a need to examine effective life.
How do I know my battery is bad?
Your battery failing to hold a charge and running down quickly signals that you need to do a replacement since cordless drill batteries are bound to wear over time.
How long does a cordless drill battery take to charge?
You should consider charging the battery overnight if it is a brand-new battery. This will ensure you have a full charge on each cell. However, 3 to 6 hours will be okay to attain a complete charge for future charges. New chargers are also designed so that the batteries can’t get overcharged.
Are power tool batteries interchangeable?
This isn’t possible as each brand of cordless power tools has a battery platform specific to their line of tools with different voltages. However, it is possible to interchange batteries of the same brand and voltages.
What cordless drill has the most extended battery life?
The DeWalt DCD991P2 is the best option when a drill is needed to retain energy for longer. It’s the best overall due to its power and speed. Being brushless makes it run longer than its counterparts on the same battery. The battery is also durable. You can buy this model at Amazon. Click the link below to get this exclusive unit.
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Final thoughts
The lifespan of cordless drill batteries varies depending on factors such as battery chemistry, usage patterns, charging practices, and environmental conditions. While Ni-Cd, NiMH, and Li-ion batteries offer distinct advantages and limitations, proper maintenance and usage habits can significantly extend their longevity. By understanding the factors influencing battery lifespan and implementing practical tips to maximize performance, users can get the most out of their cordless drill batteries and ensure reliable operation for years