How do I Choose the Best Cordless Drill Battery Charger?

There are several things to consider when choosing the best cordless drill battery charger. It is best to check to see what the make and model of your drill is so you purchase the correct charger. The type of cordless drill battery charger that will best suit the cordless drill also depends on the type of battery that it uses. It is very important to get the proper cordless drill battery charger, because the wrong purchase can lead to shortened overall battery life and less safety.

You should first identify the type of battery your cordless drill uses, as this will help determine what type of charger you need. Depending on the brand and type of cordless drill, you may find there are several battery options. The drill's manufacturer can provide you with the different options, which is important because you may not be able to locate a charger for the battery currently being used and may need to switch batteries to fit the drill with a charger.

Generally, there are three different types of batteries to choose from: nickel cadmium, nickel metal hydride, and lithium ion. Nickel cadmium is the oldest and cheapest version of the cordless drill battery, but cadmium is toxic and hard to dispose of. Nickel metal hydride is slightly more expensive, but non-toxic. Lithium ion is the newest and most powerful of the three, but the most costly.

Once you have identified your drill's battery, you will be able to decide if you want to buy a name-brand cordless drill battery charger or a generic brand. There are several limitations to knock-off brands, including the possibility of a shortened battery life. A poorly manufactured charger may also catch fire if the plastic melts due to a lack of a heat sensor.

A good, high-quality charger should have a shut-off function. This is because when the battery is fully charged or too hot, it will stop charging until the device cools. The charger should also be recommended for the cordless drill by the manufacturer. If possible, use a cordless drill battery charger manufactured by the same company that made the drill. In most cases, the company that produces the original tool is going to make the best after-market accessories.