Battery refers to the battery pack in a moulded case, a POWERhandle includes handle and trigger, use of the word battery or batteries refers to the non-removable cells contained within the Battery product.

Opening a battery pack will expose the user and surroundings to many risks. You must accept and manage these risks and if you are not able to safely open the pack you should seek professional services before opening the casing or doing any maintenance. You can only open the casing at your own risk. CEL and it's staff do not recommend or advise any of the actions below. This is for information only.


A battery pack is made up of individual cells, typically a size called 18650. These cells charge to around 4.2V DC and operate at 3.6V DC. When a cell is lower than 3V DC it is likely that the pack has a fault or that the cell itself has a fault. 

  • Typically a 18V pack is made up from five of these cells in series to make 5x3.6=18V a fully charged pack will usually read around 21V. A pack containing one or more failed cells will usually show a total voltage lower than 15V. This can be confirmed by testing each cell individually. Sometimes two sets of five 18V cells is used in parallel to provide a higher capacity.
  • A 14.4V pack is made up from four cells in series to create 4x3.6=14.4V. A fully charged pack will show a total voltage of 16.8V.
  • A 10.8V pack is three cells in series to create 3x3.6=10.8V. A fully charged pack will read 12.6V.

Some tips to avoid failed cells:

  • Typically a lithium ion battery is supplied partially charged. To ensure full capacity of the battery, completely charge the Battery in the Battery charger before first use.
  • Only use supplied Battery and charger or a suitable replacement. Chargers are designed for specific battery types and are not interchangeable. The information plate on your charger will indicate which Batteries can be charged. The lithium ion battery can be charged at any time without reducing its service life. Interrupting the charging procedure does not damage the battery. The Battery circuitry will allow charging only within a temperature range of 0 °C to 45 °C. Always remove the Battery from the tool/charger and store it in a dry, secure place between 10ºC and 24ºC (50ºF) and (75ºF) when not in use. Excessive heat will reduce the lifetime of the Battery, cooler conditions are best for Lithium Ion batteries.
  • The batteries within the product will hold charge for several months without recharge but should never be stored flat as this may permanently damage one or more of the cells of the battery.

The best battery lifetime can be achieved by using at least 20% of your batteries charge and then recharging to at least 80% capacity at least every 30 days. This helps the system to balance voltage across all of the cells.

To reduce fire risk, never leave the battery on the charger longer than 24 hours.

WARNING, Switch off and remove the Battery before carrying out any maintenance on your tools.

WARNING, Do not throw batteries into fire or water, It could cause an explosion!

WARNING, Batteries contain harmful chemicals, dispose of damaged batteries safely.

WARNING, Do not use an extension cord to charge.

WARNING, Charge indoors in a safe, dry environment away from flammable materials only.

Battery refers to the battery pack in a moulded case, a POWERhandle includes handle and trigger, use of the word battery or batteries refers to the non-removable cells contained within the Battery product.

Overload or Protection

When overloaded (e.g.: the product is working too hard or the blade is jammed) the current will increase rapidly, this  triggers the auto cut-off.Free the obstruction and restart the tool.

Low Voltage Protection

The Lithium Ion cells are protected by a circuit which prevents them from over discharge, this circuit can be damaged by impact, take care not to drop your Battery.When the discharging current is too high or the remaining battery voltage is not enough to drive the machine, the battery will cut out automatically.

Note: If this happens frequently the battery capacity is low, please recharge your battery.  

Over Temperature Protection

The battery will not charge or operate if the temperature internally is too high. Allow the unit to cool in a safe location before continued use.

Servicing

This product contains no user serviceable parts. Repairs should only be carried out by a CEL authorised repairer.

No Memory Effect

Lithium Ion batteries can be recharged at any time during their use, there is no need to completely discharge the battery before recharging. You can use the battery for 5 minutes and place on charge with no detrimental effects. Additionally there is no need to wait for the battery to fully charge before removing from the charger.

General inspection

Regularly check that all the fixing screws are present and tight. They may vibrate loose over time.

Cleaning

Keep the Battery air vents unclogged and clean at all times. Remove dust and dirt regularly. Cleaning is best done with compressed air or a rag. Never use caustic agents to clean plastic parts.

CAUTION, Do not use cleaning agents to clean the plastic parts of the Battery. A mild detergent on a damp cloth is recommended. Water must never come into contact with the Battery.

Storage

Store the Battery, instruction manual and accessories in a secure, dry place. In this way you will always have all the information and parts ready to hand.

Never store the Battery with a flat battery.

The battery should ideally be stored between 10ºC and 24ºC (50ºF and 75ºF).

Disposal

Batteries contains materials that should be recycled but can not be disposed of with regular household waste. For disposal options contact your local recycling centre, council offices or your place of purchase