Are you experiencing issues with your Milwaukee battery? Is it showing as fully charged but not working? This can be a frustrating problem, especially if you are in the middle of a project or task. In this guide, we will discuss some common reasons why your battery may be displaying as fully charged but still not functioning properly. We will also provide steps on how to troubleshoot and fix the issue, so you can get back to using your Milwaukee battery with confidence.
Why Milwaukee Battery Says Fully Charged but Not Working
Age and Deterioration
To prevent this issue, it is important to properly store and maintain your Milwaukee batteries. Avoid leaving them in extreme temperatures or exposing them to moisture and always use the appropriate charger for your battery. [1]
Effects of Temperature
Extreme temperatures can also have a significant impact on battery performance. If your Milwaukee battery has been exposed to extreme cold or heat, it may show as fully charged, but not work properly when put to use. This is because temperature changes can affect the chemical reactions within the battery and cause them to become less efficient.
To avoid this issue, try keeping your batteries in a moderate temperature environment and avoid using them in extreme conditions if possible. [1]
Dirty Contacts
Another common reason for a Milwaukee battery displaying as fully charged but not working is due to dirty contacts. Battery contacts are the metal parts that connect the battery to the tool or charger. Over time, these contacts can become dirty or corroded, which can prevent proper communication between the battery and its intended device.
To clean battery contacts, use a small amount of rubbing alcohol on a cotton swab and gently wipe away any dirt or debris. Be sure to dry the contacts before reinserting the battery into its device. [1]
Inconsistent Voltage
If your Milwaukee battery is showing as fully charged but still not working, it may be due to inconsistent voltage levels. This can occur if you have multiple batteries of different ages or capacities and try to use them interchangeably. Mixing batteries with different voltages can cause issues with power output and result in the battery appearing fully charged, but not functioning properly.
To avoid this issue, be sure to use batteries of the same age and capacity when using multiple batteries for a project or task. [1]
Prolonged Improper Storage
Improperly storing your Milwaukee batteries for extended periods of time can also cause them to show as fully charged but not work correctly. This is because batteries are meant to be used and discharged regularly, and leaving them unused for long periods can result in decreased performance.
To prevent this issue, try to use all of your Milwaukee batteries on a rotating basis and avoid storing them for extended periods without use. [1]
Checking if Your Milwaukee Battery Has Gone Bad
Perform a Charge Test
If you have tried the above troubleshooting steps and your Milwaukee battery is still not functioning properly, it may be time to perform a charge test. This involves charging the battery fully, ensuring that it reaches its maximum capacity, and then using a multimeter to test its voltage levels. By connecting the multimeter’s probes to the positive and negative terminals of the battery, you can measure the voltage output. If the voltage readings are significantly lower than what they should be for a fully charged battery, this is an indication that your battery has gone bad and needs to be replaced. It is important to note that a charge test helps determine the overall health and performance of your battery, providing valuable insights into its condition and whether it can still deliver the required power for your tools and equipment. [3]
Consult with a Professional
If you are unsure of how to perform a charge test or if you suspect that your battery has gone bad due to a sudden decrease in performance or power, it is always best to consult with a professional. A qualified expert can accurately diagnose the issue by conducting comprehensive tests and examining the battery’s health indicators. Based on their assessment, they can provide you with detailed recommendations on the best course of action, whether it involves battery replacement, reconditioning, or other necessary steps to ensure optimal functionality and longevity. Remember, seeking professional guidance ensures that you receive expert advice tailored to your specific situation, giving you peace of mind and helping you make informed decisions. [3]
Use a Multimeter Regularly
To prevent similar issues from occurring in the future, it is highly recommended to regularly use a reliable and accurate multimeter to test the voltage levels of your Milwaukee batteries. By doing so, you can proactively identify any potential problems, such as voltage fluctuations or irregularities, before they escalate into major issues that could affect the performance and lifespan of your batteries. This simple yet effective practice will help ensure that your batteries are always operating at their optimum level, providing you with reliable and consistent power whenever you need it. [3]
Battery Smoking or Overheating
If you notice that your Milwaukee battery starts smoking or overheating while in use, it is crucial to take immediate action and replace it. This occurrence may indicate internal damage or a malfunction within the battery, which can lead to serious risks such as explosions or fires if you continue to use it. To ensure safety, it is imperative to stop using the battery and properly dispose of it in accordance with local regulations. By doing so, you can effectively mitigate any potential hazards and maintain a secure environment. [3]
Ways to Revive Your Dead Milwaukee Battery
Clean the Contacts
If your Milwaukee battery has been sitting idle for a prolonged period without use, its contacts may have accumulated dirt or corrosion, which can hinder its performance. In such cases, you can try cleaning the contacts using rubbing alcohol and a cotton swab to potentially revive the battery and restore its functionality. By carefully removing any buildup and ensuring optimal contact, you can increase the chances of bringing your battery back to life and enjoying its full capabilities once again. [5]
Charge the Battery Slowly With Mini Boosts
In some cases, a dead Milwaukee battery may not hold a charge due to prolonged inactivity or undercharging. To fix this issue, you can try charging the battery slowly using mini boosts instead of leaving it on the charger overnight. This method involves monitoring and adjusting the charging process by removing and reinserting the battery into the charger at regular intervals until it reaches its full capacity. This gradual charging process can help revive the battery and improve its overall performance.
One important aspect to consider when using this method is to ensure that the charging intervals are not too short or too long. It is recommended to start with shorter intervals and gradually increase the duration as the battery starts to regain its capacity. Additionally, it is crucial to keep an eye on the battery temperature during the charging process to prevent overheating.
By following this approach, you can give your dead Milwaukee battery a better chance of recovering and ultimately extend its lifespan. Remember, patience and consistency are key when trying to revive a battery that has been inactive for a while. [5]
Connect the Battery to Another Battery
Another method that may help revive a dead Milwaukee battery is connecting it to another fully charged battery. This process, also known as jumpstarting, can provide the necessary boost and voltage levels to potentially bring your battery back to life. To do this, you will need a set of jumper cables and a compatible battery with enough power.
Connect the Battery to an AC Adapter
If the above methods do not work, you can also try connecting your Milwaukee battery to an AC adapter. This approach is usually used for entirely dead batteries that do not have any remaining energy or charge. To do this, you will need a compatible AC adapter and a set of alligator clips.
First, connect the positive (+) alligator clip to the positive (+) terminal of the battery. Then, connect the negative (-) alligator clip to a metal surface on your tool or equipment that is not near any fuel sources. Finally, plug in the AC adapter and allow it to charge the battery for at least an hour before attempting to use it again. [2]
Make Sure Outlet You Are Using Is Working Properly
If you have tried all the above methods and your Milwaukee battery is still not charging, it could be due to a faulty outlet. Make sure to test the outlet using another electronic device, such as a phone or a lamp, to ensure that it is working properly. If the outlet is not working, try using a different one that you know is functional and has been tested with other devices. It’s important to rule out any potential issues with the outlet before assuming there is a problem with the battery or charger. [2]
Make Sure The Charger Is Working: Try Another Battery
Similarly, if you have tested the outlet and it is working correctly, but your Milwaukee battery is still not charging, it could be an issue with the charger. To confirm this, try using the charger with another compatible battery to see if it charges properly. If the other battery works, then there may be a problem with your original battery that needs further investigation or replacement.
One possible reason for the charger not working could be a loose connection between the charger and the battery. Check for any dirt, debris, or corrosion on the battery terminals and clean them if necessary. Additionally, ensure that the charger is securely plugged into the power source and there are no loose or damaged wires.
Another factor to consider is the temperature. Extreme hot or cold conditions can affect the charging capability of the battery. If you have been using the charger or battery in extreme temperatures, allow them to reach a moderate temperature range before attempting to charge again.
If none of these steps resolve the issue, it is recommended to reach out to the manufacturer’s customer support for further assistance. They can provide you with specific troubleshooting steps or guide you through the process of getting a replacement battery or charger if needed. [2]
Press The Button On The Battery When Plugging In
Some Milwaukee batteries have a reset button that can help revive a dead battery or improve its charging capabilities. This button is usually located on the top of the battery and should be pressed before plugging in the charger. By doing this, it can potentially reset any internal circuitry and allow for better communication between the battery and charger.
If your battery has a reset button, try pressing it before charging and see if there is any improvement in its performance. This method may not work for all cases, but it is worth a try if you are experiencing issues with your Milwaukee battery. [2]
Clean The Connections Of Dirt And Debris
Over time, batteries can accumulate dirt and debris on their terminals, which can affect their ability to charge properly. It is recommended to regularly clean your battery terminals with a clean cloth or brush to remove any build-up. Additionally, if the battery has been in storage for an extended period, make sure to clean off any corrosion that may have formed on the terminals.
By keeping the connections clean, you can ensure better communication and transfer of energy between the battery and charger, ultimately improving its charging performance. [4]
Slowly Charge The Battery For 2-3 Minutes At A Time
If your Milwaukee battery is completely dead, it may not be able to handle a full charge right away. In this case, it is recommended to slowly charge the battery for 2-3 minutes at a time and then let it rest for a few minutes before resuming the charging process. This method allows the battery to gradually build up energy without causing any damage or overheating.
If you have tried this method, and the battery is still not charging, it could be a sign of a deeper issue. In this case, it is best to seek professional help or consider getting a replacement battery. Trying to force charge a dead battery can potentially cause damage and reduce its overall lifespan. [4]
Use Speaker Wire To Connect Dead Battery To A Healthy Battery
If you have access to speaker wire or jumper cables, you can also try jump-starting the dead Milwaukee battery by connecting it to a healthy one. First, make sure both batteries are of similar voltage and chemistry (e.g., both lithium-ion). Then, using the wires, connect the positive (+) terminal of the dead battery to the positive (+) terminal of the healthy battery. Next, connect the negative (-) terminal of the dead battery to a metal surface on your tool or equipment that is not near any fuel sources.
Once connected, allow the batteries to sit for a few minutes before attempting to charge again. This method can help transfer some energy from the healthy battery to the dead one and potentially revive it enough for proper charging. [4]
FAQ
How do I know if my MILWAUKEE battery is bad?
There are a few signs that may indicate your Milwaukee battery is bad, including:
- The battery won’t hold a charge: If you have charged the battery but it quickly loses its charge or doesn’t hold a charge at all, it could be a sign of a bad battery.
- The battery won’t charge at all: If your Milwaukee battery won’t accept a charge from the charger, it could indicate a problem with the battery.
- The battery is physically damaged: Any visible damage to the battery, such as cracks or leaks, is a clear indication that it needs to be replaced.
- The battery has significantly reduced run-time: If your Milwaukee tool or equipment doesn’t last as long on a single charge as it used to, it could be a sign that the battery is reaching the end of its lifespan.
Can a MILWAUKEE battery be fixed?
In some cases, a Milwaukee battery can be fixed by following the troubleshooting steps mentioned above. However, if the issue persists or the battery is damaged beyond repair, it may need to be replaced. It is always recommended to contact the manufacturer’s customer support for assistance before attempting any repairs on your own.
What to do with Milwaukee batteries that don’t work?
If your Milwaukee battery is not working, it is best to try the troubleshooting steps mentioned above first. If the issue cannot be resolved, you can contact the manufacturer for assistance. They may offer a warranty or replacement program for defective batteries. If the battery is no longer under warranty, it should be disposed of properly according to local regulations for electronic waste. Do not attempt to disassemble or dispose of the battery in any other way as it can be hazardous. Overall, it is essential to take proper care of your Milwaukee battery to ensure its longevity and performance for all your power tool needs.
Useful Video: Milwaukee M18 Battery Pack Safely Restored
Conclusion
In conclusion, a fully charged Milwaukee battery not working can be frustrating, but there are steps you can take to potentially resolve the issue. By pressing the reset button, cleaning the connections, slowly charging the battery, or jump-starting it with a healthy battery, you may be able to revive your dead or malfunctioning battery. However, if these methods do not work, it may be time to consider getting a replacement battery or seeking professional help. Always remember to properly dispose of old or damaged batteries and take care of your Milwaukee battery to ensure its optimal performance for all your power tool needs. So, if you ever face this issue with your Milwaukee battery, don’t immediately assume that it is defective. Try out these troubleshooting steps first before making any decisions. Remember, prevention is always better than cure, so make sure to regularly clean and maintain your Milwaukee battery to prevent any future issues. Happy charging!
References
- https://topchooser.com/milwaukee-battery-says-fully-charged-but-not-working/
- https://applianceanalysts.com/milwaukee-battery-wont-charge/
- https://toolsweek.com/how-to-fix-a-milwaukee-battery/
- https://iceagetools.com/milwaukee-battery-not-charging/
- https://thefixitdad.com/index.php/2022/09/17/milwaukee-battery-not-charging/