If your cordless kit is heading into hibernation, now’s the perfect time to give your battery a little TLC. Proper winter care doesn’t just protect performance — it extends battery life, too. Here’s what to do:
*It’s important to remember that your batteries most likely fit tools which could come in handy during the winter months, such as leaf blowers & chainsaws, particularly if you’re using any of the Stihl or Echo brand platforms available in our store!
🔋 1. Charge before storing
Lithium-ion batteries should never be stored empty. Aim for around 60–80% charge before putting them away. This keeps the cells stable during long periods of rest.
🏡 2. Store somewhere warm and dry
Cold temperatures can permanently reduce lithium-ion battery capacity. Keep your Cobra battery in a cool, dry place between 5–20°C — never in an unheated shed, garage, or outdoors. Ideally you will store your batteries & charger in a safe place inside your house & neatly store your tools in a dry garage or shed.
📦 3. Remove the battery from your machine
Always take your battery out of the mower, trimmer or blower etc. before winter storage. This prevents accidental activation and protects the contacts.
🔌 4. Avoid leaving it on the charger
Once charged, unplug the battery. Lithium-ion models don’t need ‘trickle charging’ and storing them on a charger can cause unnecessary wear.
🧼 5. Keep contacts clean
A gentle wipe with a dry cloth is usually enough. Make sure terminals are free from moisture and debris before you put it away.
💡 6. Check it again mid-winter
If you’re storing it for several months, give it a quick top-up if the charge drops — this helps maintain long-term health. I personally find it useful to set a reminder using your phone to top up charge maybe 6-8 weeks after initially beginning “hibernation” of batteries.
⚠️ 7. Poor storage of Lithium-ion batteries can result in causing damage to batteries rendering them beyond economical repair, damage of this nature is not covered under your manufacturer’s warranty.