Focus on these key aspects when purchasing battery-powered gardening tools
When it comes to choosing and maintaining cordless garden tools, there are several factors to consider for a reliable, efficient, and long-lasting performance. Here's a guide to help you make the most of your cordless garden tools.
Factors to Consider When Buying Cordless Garden Tools
- Battery system and capacity: Focus on the battery’s amp-hour (Ah) rating rather than just voltage; a higher Ah rating (e.g., 4.0Ah or 5.0Ah) means longer runtime but heavier battery[1][2]. Choosing a tool from a brand whose battery platform you already own can save money by sharing batteries and chargers[1][3].
- Compatibility and battery ecosystem: Aim to buy tools that share batteries across different garden or DIY tools from the same brand, which improves convenience and cost efficiency[1][3].
- Your garden size and terrain: Larger or more complex lawns require tools with more powerful batteries and appropriate physical features (e.g., bigger wheels for uneven terrain)[2][5].
- Type of tool and cutting mechanism: For example, in strimmers, choose between line or blade cutting depending on your tasks[1].
- Budget: Balance upfront cost with features and battery capacity; investing more may yield better durability and battery life[2][5].
Ensuring Longer Battery Life and Maintaining Performance
To ensure longer battery life and maintain performance:
- Avoid full discharges: Recharge batteries before they are completely drained, as full discharges can shorten battery lifespan[4].
- Proper storage: Store batteries in cool, dry places around 20°C (68°F) to preserve capacity[4].
- Regular maintenance: Clean terminals periodically with a baking soda solution or battery cleaner to prevent corrosion and ensure solid electrical contact[4].
- Tight and protected connections: Make sure battery terminals are tight and coated with grease or lubricant to avoid unwanted discharge and corrosion[4].
- Use original chargers: Use chargers recommended by the manufacturer to avoid battery damage.
Other Important Considerations
- Inspect batteries regularly: Regularly inspect the battery for damages such as cracks or swelling. If there's unusual heat or odor, do not continue using the battery.
- Modern batteries have smart features: They recognize when they are fully charged and automatically stop the charging process.
- Cordless garden tools offer advantages: These tools offer advantages such as no cables, no emissions, significantly less noise, and increased safety.
- Proper disposal of batteries: Old or defective batteries should not be thrown in regular trash. They can be disposed of for free at collection points of retailers or recycling centers.
- Always use original chargers: For cordless garden tools, always use the charger provided by the manufacturer to ensure safety.
For more information, visit TÜV SÜD AG's website.
[1] TÜV SÜD AG. (2021). Cordless Garden Tools: Choosing and Caring for Cordless Garden Tools. Retrieved from ots [2] TÜV SÜD AG. (2021). Cordless Garden Tools: A Comprehensive Guide. Retrieved from news aktuell [3] TÜV SÜD AG. (2021). Cordless Garden Tools: Saving Money with a Uniform Battery System. Retrieved from ots [4] TÜV SÜD AG. (2021). Cordless Garden Tools: Tips for Proper Battery Care. Retrieved from ots [5] TÜV SÜD AG. (2021). Cordless Garden Tools: Matching the Tool to Your Garden’s Size and Terrain. Retrieved from ots
- To maintain an efficient and long-lasting home-and-garden lifestyle, consider investing in cordless garden tools that feature a compatible battery system and capacity, such as those with higher amp-hour ratings for extended runtime.
- For a seamless home-and-garden lifestyle, prioritize buying tools that share batteries across different garden or DIY tools from the same brand, ensuring convenience and cost efficiency.
