Using A Power Inverter To Recharge Cordless Tool Battery; Is It Okay?

[TexasAl]

I have an array of cordless tools that I use on various projects. I use Craftsman C3 19.2 volt series and Black & Decker 18V style tools. I have an power inverter that I keep in my truck, and I was thinking of using it to charge the batteries when I am out doing some work, and away from a power supply. I was told by someone (can't remember who) that it will damage the batteries. Any thoughts?

[Nytemare]

I have an array of cordless tools that I use on various projects. I use Craftsman C3 19.2 volt series and Black & Decker 18V style tools. I have an power inverter that I keep in my truck, and I was thinking of using it to charge the batteries when I am out doing some work, and away from a power supply. I was told by someone (can't remember who) that it will damage the batteries. Any thoughts?

Cant see an issue as long as you dont go over the rating on the Inverter. See how much current and wattage the charger will pull and make sure it doesn't pull more than 15 amps...thats all the power outlet is rated for on the truck.

[grose67]

I used a convertor daily for almost 3 months to charge my 14.4 and 18 volt tool batteries. Never had any issues.

[TexasAl]

I just found a web page with the following information 'DO NOT plug in battery chargers for cordless power tools if the charger carries a warning that dangerous voltages are present at the battery terminals.". My B&D does not have a warning about high voltage, so it should be fine. My Craftsman battery charger does have the warning, so I am thinking of not trying it. I used the charger with the inverter before, and the batteries where acting funny for a few charge cycles. The batteries seemed weak with on my drill, and my flashlight looked like it was working off a weak battery, instead of a freshly charged battery. Thinking back, I am guessing this was probably the cause. I contacted B&D and Sears, and they both said it is fine for me to run the chargers off the inverter.

 

Anybody else see any problems like this?

[Stouffer]

Some of our Dewalt batteries don't last as long using a plug in power inverter. I would wire a power inverter off of the battery and mount it in the truck somewhere.

[thearborbarber]

Dewalt has a battery charger that plus directly into the cigarette lighter port.

[KMGZ400]

i used an inverter to power a corded dewalt grinder and it worked fine.

[RyanbabZ71]

Dewalt has a battery charger that plus directly into the cigarette lighter port.

 

http://www.mytoolstore.com/dewalt/dew09-02.html

 

pretty pricey at $107 but if you use it all the time guess it would be worth it

[TexasAl]

Dewalt has a battery charger that plus directly into the cigarette lighter port.

 

http://www.mytoolstore.com/dewalt/dew09-02.html

 

pretty pricey at $107 but if you use it all the time guess it would be worth it

 

 

That is a good product. It will definitely be on my wish list. I was working on building some shelves, and the circular saw runs down the batteries quickly, so this vehicle charger will be perfect. I will check and see if B& D has one. I just checked Sears, and they make one , and it is cheap ($29)!

[GMAnimal]

My drill batteries are charged using an inverter every day. I use my tools daily and that is the only way I have ever charged them.

[z71duke]

I have an array of cordless tools that I use on various projects. I use Craftsman C3 19.2 volt series and Black & Decker 18V style tools. I have an power inverter that I keep in my truck, and I was thinking of using it to charge the batteries when I am out doing some work, and away from a power supply. I was told by someone (can't remember who) that it will damage the batteries. Any thoughts?

 

 

I have used an inverter to charge my DeWalt batt packs (3 at a time) and lots of other things (flashlights, hand held radios, etc.) that I use daily for years in my work truck. It's a big inverter, but I've never had an issue running many appliances.

[Zembonez]

I run an inverter in my truck to run and charge my laptop. Been doing it for several years and no issues whatsoever.