Stop killing your batteries early — these habits could add years to every charge

August 26, 2025

Simple habits that keep your cordless gear running stronger — for years, not months

Why 18V Batteries Don’t Last Forever — And Why That’s Okay

Every cordless tool owner hits this moment eventually: you're halfway through a job, squeeze the trigger, and... nothing. The battery’s tapped out. Before you toss it in frustration (or wish you’d bought a backup), here’s something worth knowing: battery life isn’t just about age. It’s about how you treat it, store it, charge it — and yes, even how often it works up a sweat in your backyard shed.

We don’t expect our laptops or phones to last 10 years without hiccups. Same principle applies here — batteries wear. But with a few small changes, you can keep your 18V power cells reliable and ready, project after project.

1. Treat Charging Like Brewing Coffee — Not Microwaving Soup

Quick tip: faster charging doesn’t mean better. High-speed charging may get you out the door sooner, but it also creates more heat — and lithium-ion batteries hate heat.

Stick with the charger designed for your battery — no off-brand shortcuts.
Once it hits 100%, unplug. Leaving it on the charger for days doesn’t “top it up” — it just strains the battery.
If your charger has a fan or cooling system, keep its vents clear and dust-free.

Think of it this way: your battery’s not a hungry beast to be force-fed. It's more like sourdough starter — it thrives best with attentive dosing, not overfeeding.

2. Stop Storing Batteries in the Boot or on the Front Verandah

Aussie sheds, garages, and car boots can get seriously toasty — especially in summer. So can battery packs left sitting on window ledges or verandahs.

Store batteries in a cool, dry spot, ideally indoors. If you wouldn't leave a pot of yogurt there, don’t leave your battery there either.

Extreme cold can mess with performance too, but heat does the real long-term damage. If your tools live outside under a lean-to or in the ute tray, consider bringing your batteries inside overnight — even into the laundry or under the sink.

3. Use Them Regularly (Or Give Them An ‘Empty Your Inbox’ Task)

Here’s a curveball: batteries don’t age well when neglected. Let them sit too long, and internal chemistry starts to degrade, even if they've never powered a single drill bit.

So even if your next big project is months away, give your battery a simple job now and then:

Zip around with the cordless blower once a fortnight
Drill hanging hooks in the shed
Prep a garden bed edge — even if it’s just a “maybe” idea

Not only does this keep the battery healthy — it keeps you in a steady rhythm of doing, fixing, and dreaming up what’s possible.

4. Don’t Flatten It Every Time

It’s tempting to run your battery down ‘til it gives you that final sad blink, thinking you’re getting every bit of juice. But lithium-ion batteries actually do better when you recharge them before they fully drain.

A good rule: when you feel the power drop during a job, swap it out. Leaving it completely flat for days or weeks? That’s a surefire ticket to reduced lifespan (and possibly a dead cell).

5. Wipe Them Down — Yes, Really

Dust, dirt, and moisture all up the risk of corrosion around battery terminals. Big-picture? It messes with connectivity and shortens life.

“End-of-day habits keep gear alive long-term. A quick wipe of your tools and batteries can save you both cost and chaos down the track.”
– Candeece, DIY & Hardware Specialist

Give your battery pack a quick dust-down with a dry cloth after gritty work (like sanding, drilling hardwood, or grinding outdoors). Store it away from humid spots when you can.

6. Recognise the Signs of Battery Fatigue

Even the best-maintained battery will have its twilight years. Slower charge-up, quick discharge during normal use, or odd heating signs? It’s probably time to replace.

When you do, recycle it through a proper battery disposal point — many hardware stores offer this (yep, including us).

It’s Not Just About Tools — It’s About Rhythm

When your gear works, your project flows. Your Saturday stays sane. Your half-hung shelf becomes a fully finished nook. All of that starts with batteries that behave — and that depends largely on how you treat them Tuesday through Friday.

So next time you dock that 18V beauty in the charger, think of it like making a pot of tea. Don’t rush. Don’t over-boil. Just a steady, thoughtful habit that makes the next step easier — and keeps your weekend dreams well-powered.

Happy tinkering,
Candeece