What to Do When the Craftsman 19.2 Volt Battery Will Not Charge?

How it Works

• Nickel cadmium batteries made by Craftsman use alkaline chemical reaction to create the power used by your tool. Nickel hydroxide provides positive energy while cadmium creates the negative energy. These two are mixed with an alkaline potassium hydroxide electrolyte.

Crystallization

• Cadmium are created of tiny crystals. The crystals are small so that they take up less space. Over time, crystals grow, causing surface area inside the battery to decrease. This also decreases the amount of energy the battery can hold. Nickel and cadmium may mix together as well as making a hard compound that reduces the internal battery space, meaning less of a charge can be maintained.

Reconditioning the Battery

• Charge the battery as you normally would, until the charger indicates that the battery is fully charged. Insert the battery into your power tool and set the tool to the lowest setting. Completely discharge the battery. Let the battery sit for 15 minutes. Turn on the power tool. It should start again. Completely discharge it again. Fully charge the battery after that, but if you still have problems, the battery needs to be replaced.

Preventing Charging Problems

• Good maintenance will prevent crystallization for as long as possible. Completely discharge your battery at least once a month. Once the battery is changed, remove it from the charger. Use a good battery charger made by Craftsman. Generic chargers may damage batteries by charging the battery too quickly or too slowly.