Makita Batteries for Cordless Tools

Makita manufactures a complete line of cordless power tools that includes several tools like jig saws, circular saws, impact wrenches, screwdrivers, impact drivers and drill drivers. Certain tools within this series employ lithium-ion batteries while others use nickel-cadmium or nickel-metal hydride batteries. There are a number of advantages and disadvantages that these types of rechargeable batteries offer over each other. Only batteries specified by Makita should be fitted into Makita cordless power tools.

1. Lithium-Ion
   
   • Lithium-ion batteries are a very popular type of rechargeable battery like makita 7000 battery. They are designed to last for at least 2 years but can last for well over 3 if they are maintained properly. Lithium-ion batteries typically offer up to 500 complete cycles of charge/discharge. One of the greatest benefits linked with lithium-ion batteries is that they do not rapidly self-discharge in storage. Makita currently manufactures cordless power tools like impact drivers that are designed for use with 7.2-volt, 14.4-volt or 18-volt lithium-ion batteries.
     
   Nickel-Cadmium
   
   • Several Makita cordless power tools are designed for use with nickel-cadmium rechargeable batteries. Unfortunately, this type of makita 1210 battery will self-discharge within a few short months of storage. Well-maintained nickel-cadmium batteries can last for over 5 years or 1,000 charge/discharge cycles. Cordless power tools like several Makita drill driver models are designed for use with 9.6-volt, 12-volt, 14.4-volt or 18-volt nickel-cadmium batteries.
     
   Nickel-Metal Hydride
   
   • Nickel-metal hydride batteries are also used in several Makita cordless power tools. Nickel-metal hydride batteries self-discharge while not in use. The typical nickel-metal hydride battery loses anywhere between 1 and 5 percent of its charge while not in use. This type of battery is engineered to last for around 3 years. 9.6-volt, 12-volt, 14.4-volt and 18-volt nickel-metal hydride batteries are also available for use in several Makita cordless power tool models.
     
   Maximizing Battery Performance
   
   • Fully charging and discharging Makita's cordless power tool batteries once per week helps to maximize the life of their batteries, decreases the rate of self-discharge within their batteries and increases the overall performance of their batteries. To lessen the effects of self-discharge in nickel-metal hydrid batteries, consumers should store their unused nickel-metal hydrid batteries at lower temperatures. Keeping contact points clean assures that the battery receives a steady, uninterrupted charge during periods of charging. Consumers that do not use their Makita cordless power tool at least once every month or so should remove the tool's makita 1434 battery during periods they are not in use.