19
SECTION C
HOW TO EXTEND
THE LIFE OF YOUR
BATTERY
You can extend the life of the batteries if you follow
these tips:
Tip 1:
The first charge is critical. Make sure that the
battery is fully charged before first use.
Tip 2:
Exploit the power of the battery. Use all the power
the battery has until it is depleted. This maintains
the charge potential of the battery.
Tip 3:
Do not charge the battery when it still has power.
If you charge the battery too often, the so-called
memory effect develops. This means the battery
"knows" that not much power is used and will
only provide as much power as is needed.
Tip 4:
Completely discharge the battery once every
week. This is very useful: Fully discharge and then
charge the battery.
Tip 5:
. If the battery has little "stamina", several comple
te discharges and recharges will help.
Tip 6:
Do not overcharge! Make sure to charge the bat
tery for as long as it needs. Frequent overcharging
in the quick charger causes early ageing and
reduces the battery capacity.
Tip 7:
Charge the battery at room temperature. Do not
charge the battery when it is cold. This damages
the cells.
Tip 8:
Store the battery in a cool place. Batteries will
loose charge (about 20 % per month) even when
not used. If you want to store your battery for a
long time, put it in the fridge.