Dewalt power tools are among the best for use in cold weather. But does this mean you can leave Dewalt batteries out in the cold, or is there a preferred way to store them when they aren’t being used? 

As a general rule, it’s best to avoid leaving Dewalt batteries in temperatures below 40 degrees Fahrenheit. Exposure to cold temperatures can reduce the battery’s efficiency, so it’s important to store it at the proper temperature. 

Knowing the right way to handle your tools and lithium-ion batteries in the cold can help extend their life expectancy and avoid any unnecessary damage. Continue reading for more information on keeping your Dewalt batteries cold. 

Can You Store Dewalt Batteries In the Cold?

If you often work in cold temperatures, that probably means you are putting your power tools to work as well. While many Dewalt tools can withstand these temperatures for some time, it’s best not to leave them exposed for too long. 

The ideal temperature for Dewalt batteries is between 40 and 105 degrees Fahrenheit. Leaving your batteries exposed to extreme cold or extremely hot temperatures for extended periods can damage them and reduce their efficiency. 

For example, storing a battery in subzero temperatures has the possibility of cracking the ABS plastic. Instead, it’s best to practice proper storage methods when your tools are not in use. 

How to Winterize and Store Dewalt Batteries

The best way to keep your batteries in tip-top shape is to store them properly. Let’s take a look at the steps below.

Clean the Battery

When you are finished using your tool, the first thing you’ll want to do is remove the battery and make sure it is clean by wiping it down with a slightly damp cloth. Leaving any dirt or corrosion to sit over the winter can cause the battery to discharge faster, greatly decreasing the lifespan. 

Charge the Battery

Next, charge your battery overnight in a room temperature location to ensure that it is fully charged. If you forget to remove your battery from the charger the next day, don’t worry. Luckily, Dewalt lithium batteries have a maintenance mode that allows the battery to sit on the charger until it’s ready for use.

Store It In the Right Place

If you are storing your batteries for an extended period of time, remove them from the charger after they are fully charged and store them in a cool, dark location. Remember to avoid extreme temperatures. 

If you live in a cold climate, you may want to avoid places like:

  • Sheds
  • Garage
  • Vehicles

This goes for places that hit extreme temperatures in the summer as well. 

If you notice that your battery no longer holds a charge, make sure to take it to a Dewalt Service Center so that you can safely dispose of it. 

Is It Safe to Use Dewalt Batteries In Freezing Temperatures?

If it’s not a good idea to store your batteries in cold weather, you may be wondering how safe it is to use them when the temperatures drop. 

For the most part, Dewalt batteries are safe to use in cold weather. However, the colder the temperatures get, the greater the risk you are taking when it comes to damaging your batteries. 

When working in the 25–40 degree range, you shouldn’t see much of a difference in terms of amp-hours discharged. But as temperatures near single digits, the battery becomes less efficient. 

If you are going to be working in the cold, it’s a good idea to let your tools warm up before normal use. Simply use the tool on light for a few minutes to get things going, and then you shouldn’t have any trouble at all. 

Can Dewalt Batteries Charge In the Cold?

While it is possible to charge your batteries in the cold, this isn’t always the best idea. 

You probably shouldn’t charge Dewalt batteries in the cold because there is the potential for capacity loss in the batteries, decreasing the amount of charge they can deliver with each use. There is also the possibility of the battery’s ABS plastic becoming brittle and cracking.

Luckily, Dewalt battery chargers will automatically start a Hot/Cold Pack Delay if they sense that the battery pack is not at the ideal temperature. This suspends charging until the battery pack reaches the proper temperature, ensuring maximum battery pack life. 

Final Thoughts

You should now be well-equipped for taking your tools out into the cold. Though it may not always be possible to leave tools or batteries in the ideal environment, this is the best way to ensure the maximum lifespan of your Dewalt battery packs. 

Cold temperatures aren’t always guaranteed to cause damage to batteries, but leaving them exposed too long can decrease efficiency.