Power tools are amazing inventions that can save us both time and energy. If you are a person that enjoys DIY projects, you have used a variety of power tools. While power tools are great to have around, there is the caveat of battery life. If you have ever experienced picking up a tool only to find the battery drained, you may be left wondering if you can use a battery from another tool.
If you are using DeWalt and Milwaukee tools, you are in luck. You can use the battery from a DeWalt tool in a Milwaukee tool, but it is not as simple as plugging it in. While both batteries are similar, some things need to happen before you can transfer the battery.
This article will learn how you can effectively use a DeWalt battery in your Milwaukee tools.
Using a DeWalt Battery in a Milwaukee Tool
The ability to use batteries between tools and tool brands can be super useful, especially if you desperately need to use a tool that is not fully charged. If you have DeWalt and Milwaukee tools, you can share batteries between the two.
If you choose to share batteries between the two brands of tools, you will need to invest in an adapter. The adapter will allow the battery to fit appropriately into the tool. Because of this, you will be able to use batteries between tools easily. Not only is this efficient, but it may be cost-effective as well.
Why Use an Adapter?
When purchasing power tools, you will need to purchase tools from different vendors. Not only will you need to purchase the tools, but you will also need to purchase batteries and chargers. As you know, tools can be an expensive investment. Additional batteries and chargers will add to the cost.
Many people choose to use an adapter so you can share batteries among tools. While using an adapter may seem like a quick answer, some things need to be considered before attaching adapters and batterie to your tools.
Best Adapters for DeWalt and Milwaukee Tools
There are many different options when it comes to battery adapters. You must know the exact size and model of the tools you are using so you get the proper adapters. Here are some options that will work between DeWalt and Milwaukee.
If you choose to purchase an adapter, you can be prepared to spend between $18 – $25. If you are unsure about which type of adapter to use, you may want to ask a tool expert for help. You can find adapters at most home improvement stores, such as Lowes and Home Depot, as well as online.
What Happens if You Use the Wrong Adapter?
If you decide to use a power adapter for your DeWalt and Milwaukee tool, you must choose the correct adapter. If you do not use the proper adapter, several things can go wrong.
Damage to the tool: If you use an adapter not meant for the specific tool, you will risk damaging the tool. If the adapter does not allow the proper charge to flow to the tool, it can cause the electrical elements of the tool to short out.
The tool will not work: Using the incorrect adapter can cause the tool not to work at all. If you use the wrong adapter, the tool may not be able to get any power at all, which will make it unusable.
Issues With Adapters
Using adapters between tools is a terrific way to be economical, but there are some issues that you need to be aware of before you jump into sharing adapters. When manufacturers create tools, put many safeguards in the tools and batteries to protect the devices.
These protections will help prevent damage to the tools during both charging and use. If the adapter cannot properly communicate with the tool, many issues may arise.
- Improper battery charge
- No battery charges
- Improper energy output
While this list of issues is not extensive, many things can go wrong when using an adapter between power tools.
Do You Have to Use an Adapter?
You may wonder if you need to use an adapter every time you switch batteries between tools. Unfortunately, if you plan to switch batteries between tools, you will need to have an adapter. Choosing to use batteries that are not specifically manufactured for the tool you are using will make the tool unusable.
Does it Matter if the Batteries are Lithium-Ion or Alkaline?
You have tools that require diverse types of batteries. The two most common types of batteries are Lithium-Ion and Alkaline. You cannot switch between the two because they are completely different power sources. Not only are the power sources different, but the size, shape, and voltage of the batteries are different.
Final Thoughts
If you are planning to use the same batteries between DeWalt and Milwaukee power tools, you will need to make sure that you have the correct adapter to do so. Using the incorrect adapter will damage your tools or make them unusable. It is worth taking the time to research and purchase the proper adapters to ensure your tools are kept in working condition.
