Lithium Ion Batteries
We know that you are thinking that Lithium Ion is new technology but did you know that the lithium primary cell was invented in 1912? Lithium is the lightest of all metals and has the highest electrochemical potential. That means that lithium batteries are the opposite of sealed lead acid batteries and have potentially the highest energy density. Today, for safety reasons, lithium-ion technology is used where the highly reactive lithium is replaced with lithium ions instead of the metal itself.
Lithium ion batteries are the most compact rechargeable batteries in terms of energy storage, providing the highest watt-hours per weight. They are not subject to a “memory effect” and they have a relatively low self-discharge rate, about 6% per month.
Shipping Lithium Ion Batteries
Lithium batteries are considered ‘dangerous goods’ and must be declared and shipped as “Class 9 Hazardous Material.” Carts and Tools Supply is 100% compliant with current laws and regulations to ensure the safety of everyone. This means several things:
- Once a package is shipped, we may not be able to change the shipping address.
- Battery returns must be handled in a special way.
- DO NOT SHIP BATTERIES BACK TO CARTS AND TOOLS SUPPLY WITHOUT CONTACTING US.
- Hazardous good shipping requires a special handling charge of $45.00.
Care of your batteries (always recycle)
Rechargeable batteries do not last forever but with proper care you can maximize your batteries’ life. Every time a battery is discharged and recharged, it’s capacity decreases by a small percentage.
We recommend the following care to maintain your batteries.
- When you receive your new product, fully charge the battery immediately for the recommended time.
For Li-Ion (Lithium Ion), the recommended charge time is 4-6 hours ((note the enclosed information sheet with your specific model). It is recommended that you leave the charger on for a full hour after the charge indicator light turns green.
- Never charge a battery for more than 24 hours.
- Li-Ion batteries do not have a “memory.” Partial discharge/charge cycles will not harm or impact the batteries’ capacity or performance.
- Always be sure to turn the tool off when not being used for both safety purposes and to conserve battery power.
- Always recycle your battery at a local battery recycling center. Do not throw them into the garbage and keep them out of landfills. You can always visit www.call2recycle.org for free battery drop off locations or call or write us here at Carts and Tools for help.
Longer term storage of your batteries (2 months or longer)
- Charge your batteries every 90 days to prevent capacity loss. Over time batteries slowly self-discharge when left unused and if they are allowed to reach a critically low voltage, their lifespan and capacity will be reduced.
- Always disconnect your charger from both the wall and battery before you store your battery.
- Don’t store batteries where they will be exposed to extreme temperatures either hot or cold.
- Keep the batteries in a cool, dry place and prevent condensation which could cause corrosion or shorting.
- The recommended storage temperature is between 32 – 77 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Never expose the battery to extreme heat over 104 degrees Fahrenheit.
Properly maintaining your batteries will maximize their lifespan and capacity. Carts and Tools Technologies, Inc. warranties your new batteries from the date of purchase only if properly cared for.
Questions we get asked all the time
Q: Do I need to “break” in my batteries?
A: Yes, we recommend you conduct a “break-in” period where you allow three complete discharge/charge cycles to ensure your batteries reach peak performance. By conducting 2 complete discharges and charges the batteries will have their maximum possible performance and fewer fluctuations under load.
Q: Should my batteries get warm when recharging?
A: Yes, this is normal for batteries to get warm to the touch when recharging. If your battery becomes too hot to touch, disconnect it at once and contact us.
Q: How long will my batteries last?
A: Average life depends on use and conditions and no battery lasts forever. Even with proper break in and care all rechargeable batteries go to the recycling bin eventually. The lithium ion batteries Carts and Tools sells are rated at 2000 discharge/charge cycles. A partial charge/discharge is just that. If you discharge a battery 50% then recharge it that counts for ½ of a cycle.
Q: What does useful life mean?
A: A battery is considering to have “ended it’s useful life” when it no longer can supply 80% of its original rated capacity in ampere-hours.
Recycling
Carts and Tools is committed to sustainability and our environment. Please recycle your old batteries and if you don’t have a location to do so, email or call us.
Here are some websites if you cannot find a place to safely recycle your battery.
Lithium-ion must be kept separate and may need a different recycling facility. Do not dispose of any battery in a fire due to the risk of exposure. Do not dispose of batteries in household trash.