Replies

1. 
   Dave_Wright | Aug 25, 1999 02:57pm | #1

   *
   Extend

1. 
   FredB | Aug 26, 1999 07:11am | #2

   *In my work with PV systems I've studied batteries. Also, one of my friends is a "mad scientist" type who studies batteries. We both agree that the limit on how fast a battery is charged is charging temperature. The best and longest lasting charge is the quickest charge without exceeding the temperature limit. Most of the quick chargers sense temperature so there is no worry there.So, after, as the lawyers say, laying a foundation,"The 15 minute charger is best".

1. 
   Dave_Wright | Aug 26, 1999 07:42am | #3

   *An additional tip from the Haiku Woodworking Advisor:Run cordless tool coolStore at room temperatureLong and happy lifeMy experience has been that Fred's comments about temperature extend to other cordless tool use and storage practices as well as the charging cycle.

1. 
   Ron_Schroeder | Aug 30, 1999 07:46pm | #4

   *The key to long battery life isn't how fast they are charged but how well the charge detects end of charge to shut off the charge before OVER-charge. Temp sense only will cause the batteries to overcharge by about 10% every time they are charged. MOST 1 hour chargers use temp sensors and MOST 15 min. chargers use a microprossor controlled voltage slope shutoff. There fore MOST 15 min chargers are better for the batteries than 1 Hr chargers. If the battery is hot after che charge is done, you need a better charger.

1. 
   KAS_ | Sep 04, 1999 07:54am | #5

   *Emperical evidence from using this exact DeWalt 15 minute charger: two 14.4 batteries still going strong after nearly four years of being drained and recharged at least monthly.

2. 
   FreddiG | Sep 04, 1999 07:54am | #6

   *
   I'm considering the purchase of a new Dewalt 14.4V cordless drill. They have the 991KQ2 (15 minute charger) and the 991K2 (1 hour charger). What is the better charger? The 15 minute charger or the 1 hour charger? Will the 15 minute charger extend or degrade the life of the battery?