Purchasing non-genuine batteries for power tools can have serious risks. Here, Tony Coleman, Technical Services Manager at Makita, outlines the issues and explains how users can protect themselves from the hazards of counterfeit goods.
Unfortunately, non-genuine construction products are becoming more common online, particularly through auction sites and marketplaces that make it easy for unvetted vendors to promote and sell replica or counterfeit products.
It can be incredibly difficult to distinguish counterfeit products from the genuine article and with costs rising in all areas, it can be tempting to save money when expanding your kit by purchasing batteries at the lowest possible price.
The reality of this however, is that these batteries are often a poor quality, substandard product that seemingly appears as one from the manufacturer.
The dangers of non-genuine battery products
Lithium-ion – the battery material that is used to power cordless power tools – can be volatile, so it’s vital that the battery charge and discharge current, cell voltage and temperature are all carefully controlled and therefore thoroughly tested to stringent safety standards.
With low quality, untested products there’s a real risk of a ‘thermal runaway’ occurring, which can lead to the battery overheating, catching fire or, in the worst cases, exploding – harming the user and the tool.
Cheap, replica batteries will not include the technology built into genuine batteries. For example, some leading manufacturers have designed their tools, batteries and chargers to communicate with each other in order to prevent damage to the tool, battery and charger.
This includes technology that automatically detects the battery temperature when it is placed on charge and allows it to cool before charging begins to avoid overheating – something that cheap, third party and non-genuine products are unlikely to offer.
Quality and performance
Counterfeit sellers will claim that batteries have the same Amp hour (Ah) rating as genuine alternatives. However, without the necessary testing and accreditation, non-genuine solutions can claim performance standards that will never be achieved. Furthermore, the use of non-approved products will invalidate manufacturer warranties.
Spotting a counterfeit product
Sadly it’s easy to be fooled. Some online sellers use images taken from official product sites and use fake official safety marks. Some set their prices far below recommended retail price to entice buyers. In fact, price can be one of the most obvious indications of a poor-quality product. If it seems too good to be true, it probably is.
Look closely at the design and appearance of the packaging and the battery. Spelling errors, variations in the logo and other inconsistencies can all be signs that the product is not genuine.
Familiarise yourself with tool manufacturers’ unique design details. If a new battery does not include these details or looks different, its one to avoid.
Ultimately, the best way to ensure a battery is genuine is to only purchase from trusted suppliers, such as the manufacturer’s authorised dealers and merchants.
What to do with non-genuine products
If you’re in any doubt, do not use or charge the battery, as the risks are clear. For complete peace of mind, owners can get their batteries checked by leading manufacturers. For example, Makita offers an inspection service (with the proof of purchase of the battery) at its Factory Service Centres or at one of its approved service agents (ASA).
MAKITA’S LATEST TOOL IS MULTI-TALENTED
Makita has recently added a new high-performance cordless multi-tool to its powerful 40VMax XGT platform.
The TM001G XGT Multi-Tool is compact and lightweight, making it convenient and flexible to use whilst still delivering on all aspects of performance.
The unit is compatible with STARLOCK MAX accessories, a tight-lock interface system with tool-less blade change for fast installation and removal. Users can set the blade at any angle for easy access and the quick release feature allows the user to switch between accessories in a matter of seconds to ensure workflow is not disrupted.
Weighing just 2.1 kg, and with a height of 332 mm, the TM001G XGT is lightweight and easy to manoeuvre whilst still ensuring impressive results. The multi-tool’s brushless motor delivers higher cutting and sanding efficiency.
Get more details about Makita and locate an approved service agent dealer here
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