Kevin Brannigan, Marketing Manager at Makita, explains why it is recommended to invest in cordless power tools that share a common battery platform. 

For any professional, having a range of quality, durable tools that can tackle a wide selection of tasks with ease is crucial to maximise productivity. Over recent years, there has been a significant shift in preference towards cordless tools and that is no surprise given the increased flexibility and efficiency that they offer. 

Cordless technology

Today’s cordless models can deliver the high output needed to tackle any task with ease, without compromising on run time. With no power lead restricting movement, users are able to position themselves in a way that makes the work easier and safer – and there are no trip hazards from trailing cables to worry about. 

To extend the life of the machine and protect it against damage, manufacturers have developed solutions whereby the battery, charger, and tool operate together as a system. For example, Makita batteries and tools and batteries and chargers are designed to communicate with each other to provide overload and thermal protection, as well as prevent over-discharging of the battery, which can be damaging and costly. 

A ‘family’ of tools

When selecting cordless machines, always do your research and make sure you are investing in a battery platform that you can rely on across all tasks. Choosing machines that use the same battery will significantly improve on-site efficiency as, when it is time to switch tasks, the batteries can simply be swapped from one tool to the next. This minimises the amount of kit needed and eliminates the hassle of having to make sure the right type of batteries are charged and transported to site each day. It also means that only one type of charger is required. 

What’s more, investing in tools that use a common battery platform can be more cost effective over time as there is no need to purchase new batteries with every tool. Instead ‘body-only’ machines can be selected. 

Check the volts

Many manufacturers offer numerous battery platforms that each deliver different output levels. With varying battery voltages to choose from, ensure that the battery system chosen can deliver the output needed for the majority of tasks. It is also important to check what machines are available, to make sure there is a full selection of applicable tools.

For example, Makita’s 18V LXT batteries can be used on a wide range products including circular saws, angle drills, reciprocating saws and grinders, as well as work lights, radios, fans, and cleaners.

Some manufacturers also offer twin battery systems, which allow batteries with different capacities and levels of charge to be used together, maximising user efficiency.

Makita tools are designed with this in mind, so for example, a 6Ah battery and a 5Ah battery can be used to create 36V of power. Where the batteries have different charge levels, the tool will simply stop when one battery is empty. 

With cordless tools, professionals can experience increased flexibility and safety on-site – and investing in a ‘family’ of cordless machines extends the benefits further. Users can effortlessly switch between tools and tasks, minimising downtime and ensuring efficiency at every turn.