How to Properly Care for Your Lithium Batteries: Milwaukee, Ryobi, Ridgid, and DeWalt

Lithium-ion batteries power the tools that keep your projects running smoothly, whether you’re a professional contractor or a DIY enthusiast. Brands like Milwaukee, Ryobi, Ridgid, and DeWalt make high-quality power tools, but without proper battery care, even the best tools can lose efficiency over time.

By following these simple care and maintenance tips, you can extend the life of your lithium batteries, maximize their performance, and get the most value out of your investment.

1. Charge Your Batteries Properly

• Use the right charger – Always charge your battery with the charger designed for your brand and model. Using off-brand or incompatible chargers can damage the cells or reduce battery life.
• Don't overcharge – Most lithium-ion batteries have built-in protections, but it's still a good practice to remove them from the charger once fully charged.
• Charge before storage – If you won’t be using the battery for a while, charge it to about 40-60% before storage to prevent deep discharge.

2. Store Your Batteries the Right Way

• Keep batteries in a cool, dry place – Extreme temperatures can cause battery degradation. Store them between 50°F and 80°F whenever possible.
• Avoid moisture and humidity – Store batteries away from water and humid environments to prevent corrosion and electrical damage.
• Don’t leave them in the tool – When storing for long periods, remove the battery from your power tool to prevent slow energy drain.

3. Avoid Extreme Temperatures

• Heat is the enemy – Avoid leaving batteries in direct sunlight, inside hot vehicles, or near heat sources. High temperatures can cause swelling and reduce battery life.
• Cold can also be harmful – Freezing temperatures can make lithium-ion batteries sluggish or stop them from charging properly. If a battery gets too cold, bring it inside and let it warm up before use.

4. Use Your Batteries Regularly

• Batteries last longer when used – Letting lithium batteries sit for months without use can degrade them. Try to use and recharge them regularly.
• Cycle the battery – If a battery sits unused for a long time, run a charge cycle (drain to about 20% and recharge) to keep it healthy.

5. Clean and Inspect Batteries Frequently

• Check for damage – Look for cracks, leaks, or bulging. Damaged batteries can be hazardous and should be replaced immediately.
• Keep terminals clean – Wipe the contacts with a dry cloth or use isopropyl alcohol to remove dust and debris. This helps maintain a solid connection with your tool.

6. Know When to Replace Your Battery

If your battery:
✔ No longer holds a charge as long as it used to
✔ Takes significantly longer to charge
✔ Shows physical damage like swelling or cracks
✔ Overheats frequently

…it might be time to replace it. Using a failing battery can reduce tool performance and even become a safety hazard.

7. Dispose of Batteries Properly

Never throw lithium-ion batteries in the trash. Instead, recycle them at an official battery disposal site.

Final Thoughts

Taking care of your Milwaukee, Ryobi, Ridgid, and DeWalt lithium-ion batteries will ensure they last longer and keep your tools running at peak performance. A little maintenance goes a long way in saving you money and preventing unnecessary battery replacements.

By following these simple tips, you’ll get the most out of your power tool batteries—whether you're on a job site or tackling home projects. Keep them charged, keep them clean, and keep them running strong!

Scott Hart- The Tool Store