To ensure your SHENTEC batteries deliver peak performance and a long service life (up to 1,200 cycles), please follow these professional maintenance tips. Proper care not only enhances runtime but also ensures maximum safety.
The First Charge
- Li-ion & Ni-MH: Your new battery arrives with a partial charge (approx. 30%) for safety during shipping.
- Action: Please fully charge the battery before its first use. This helps calibrate the battery management system (BMS) and ensures all cells are balanced.
Charging Best Practices
- Avoid Overheating: Never charge a battery immediately after a heavy work session. Let the battery cool down for 15–30 minutes before plugging it into the charger.
- Use Compatible Chargers: Always use the original charger or a high-quality SHENTEC replacement charger specifically designed for your battery model.
- Don't Leave it Forever: While our batteries have overcharge protection, it is a best practice to unplug the charger once the light turns green to preserve the chemical stability of the cells.
Usage & Discharge
- Avoid Deep Discharge: For Lithium-ion (Li-ion) batteries, try not to let the charge drop to 0%. Recharging when it reaches 10–20% is ideal for cell longevity.
- The "Memory Effect" (Ni-MH only): For older Ni-MH batteries (like some older vacuum or tool models), it is beneficial to fully discharge and then fully charge them once every few months to maintain capacity.
Proper Storage (Long-term)
If you aren’t planning to use your battery for more than a month, follow these rules:
- Charge Level: Store the battery at 40%–60% charge. Never store a battery that is completely empty (0%) as it may fall into a "deep sleep" and become unchargeable.
- Environment: Store in a cool, dry place (ideal temperature: 59°F–77°F / 15°C–25°C). Avoid damp garages or hot sheds.
- Keep it Clean: Ensure the metal contacts are free of dust and debris. If they look dirty, wipe them gently with a dry cloth or a cotton swab with a tiny bit of rubbing alcohol.
Safety Warnings
- Do Not Disassemble: Never attempt to open a battery casing.
- Avoid Impact: If a battery has been dropped or shows signs of physical damage (swelling, cracks), stop using it immediately.
- Keep Away from Water: Batteries and moisture do not mix. Ensure your tools and batteries stay dry.