How to Care For and Feed Your New Batteries
Li-Ion
Application:
Most Cell Phones and Laptop Batteries and some of the newest Cordless Drill Batteries
This chemistry has no memory effect. Li-Ion (Lithium Ion) batteries come with control chips that keep the battery at its optimum. Just charge the battery and use it. There is no need to completely discharge the battery after each used. Basically, charge it any way you like! If you store the battery for longer than 6 months recharge before use. Most battery chargers will automatically cut off when the battery is fully charged.
Ni-Mh
Application:
Newer Cordless Phones and older Camcorders
This chemistry has no noticeable memory effect. Ni-Mh (Nickel Metal Hydride) batteries need to be fully charged before use. You can charge the battery after every use of any duration, there is no need to completely discharge the battery after each use. To keep battery at full operation capacity, fully discharge the battery every 3-4 months. Then, recharge the battery. Most battery chargers will automatically cut off when the battery is fully charged.
Ni-Cad
Application:
Most Cordless phones and cordless drill packs
This chemistry does create a memory effect. Ni-Cad (Nickel Cadmium) batteries need to be fully charged before use. After charging the batteries, always use them until they are fully discharged. When first using your battery, repeat this operation 3 times in order to bring batteries to full maximum capacity. To keep your battery at full operating capacity, fully discharge the battery at least once a month then recharge the battery. Most battery chargers will automatically cut off when the battery is fully charged.
AGM/SLA
Application:
Wheelchairs, Security Systems, Kids Riding Toys, Gate-Openers, Game Feeders, newer Motorcycle and All Terrain Vehicles, Uninterruptible Power Systems and many more
This chemistry has no memory effect. AGM (Absorbed Glass Mat)/SLA (Sealed Lead Acid) batteries must be charged before use. Charge after each use. Charge the battery every 2-3 months when not in use. Do not overcharge. Some devices, such as Alarm Systems, UPS’s etc., have built-in chargers and automatically float charge the battery. You do not need to worry about the charging cycles on these batteries. Most battery chargers will automatically cut off when the battery is fully charged.
SLI
Application:
Starting Battery for Automotive, Marine, Tractor, Lawn Mowers, older Motorcycle and All Terrain Vehicles
SLI (Starting Lighting Ignition) batteries have no memory effect. They are designed to start something, then an alternator or charging system charges the batteries back up immediately.
Deep Cycle Batteries, which are commonly used for Marine Trolling Motors, RV Accessories and Golf Cars, are designed to run something for a long period of time and then use a charger to charge back up. Deep cycle batteries are designed for this cycle type use. All SLI batteries will last longer when stored in a charged up state. Therefore, after each use recharge.
SLI Notes: Fluid Levels – SLI batteries are filled with a water/acid mix know as electrolyte. The water from this mixture evaporates over time due to heat and charging. This water must be returned to the battery. The water should be filled to approximately 1/2inch above the plates (grills), seen inside each cell. Never over fill your battery. Over filling a SLI battery will only lead to corrosion which can shorten battery life.
Notes for All Chemistry Batteries: In achieving optimum performance from a battery don’t get concerned if the first few cycles of use does not live up to your expectations. The battery performance will improve over time, getting stronger after the 3rd use.
