The Power Tool Institute is warning the public that using third-party batteries in power tools can increase the risk of tool failure, fire damage and personal injury.
“The internals of power tools contain delicately balanced systems that can quickly turn dangerous if caution is not given,” the institute said in a release.
At the heart of the power tool system is the relationship between the tool, its battery, and the battery charger, the institute said. Each manufacturer has its own unique control circuitry that allows the system to communicate properly. This is what controls critical functions, such as cell balance, energy levels, flow of energy in/out, and temperatures.
“It is most likely that a third-party battery will not be compatible with the energy demands of the system,” the Power Tool Institute said. “Introducing a third-party, knock-off, or counterfeit battery can choke off system communication.”
A third-party battery can also be subject to overheating, which may reduce the life of the tool or result in tool failure.
“In the worst-case scenario, a knock-off battery can cause the tool’s motor to burn up if it starves or pushes too much current through it,” the institute said. “These batteries can catch fire on the charger (and have) when cell temperatures aren’t being properly monitored and managed.”
Ultimately, the institute recommends using original manufacturer batteries because they have cells with proven designs, quality control, and are longer lasting.
