Buyer Beware: Counterfeit and Knock-Off Batteries Pose Grave Risk
(March 2, 2022)—When you get a new power tool, you will eventually be in the market for primary, spare, or backup batteries to ensure future projects receive the power needed to get the job done.
The Power Tool Institute’s advice is to only buy batteries manufactured by the original equipment manufacturer (OEM) of your tool. Be wary of counterfeit and knock-off batteries. Not all batteries are created equal.
Why buy OEM? Because the consequences of doing otherwise can be very dangerous. An OEM battery is designed for seamless compatibility with your power tool and charger, and has undergone rigorous testing to back it up. Potential consequences include poor performance and shorter tool life or even overheating and complete failure. Even worse, the battery might burst, causing a fire or explosion resulting in personal injury and/or property damage.
I found a battery online that says it works with my power tool model, why shouldn’t I buy it? What may look like a well-made counterfeit or knock-off seems reassuring, but what really matters is what’s on the inside. Each OEM has its own proprietary control circuity that is not available to third-party component suppliers. It is virtually impossible for any knock-off battery to match the OEM. What seems to work well out of the box may deliver dire consequences later.
Don’t buy on price alone. Purchasing a battery online from an unknown seller without having any verification of the seller’s qualifications or experience, or of the battery’s construction or testing or certification, can leave you with an unsatisfying – and potentially dangerous – experience. Pay close attention to the packaging so you don’t accidentally pick up a knock-off battery (makers of these knock-offs sometimes use colors and typefaces similar to those of the recognized brands specifically to confuse buyers). Purchase batteries from authorized dealers and be suspicious of any price that seems too good to be true. It probably is.
For more tips on buying safe and smart replacement batteries, visit https://www.takechargeofyourbattery.com/shopping-for-spare-batteries-for-your-power-tool/.
About PTI
The Power Tool Institute (PTI) is the leading organization for building global understanding of power tools and for maintaining high standards of safety in the industry. A list of members can be found here. For more information, contact 216-241-7333 or pti@powertoolinstitute.com. On the Web: www.PowerToolInstitute.com and www.TakeChargeOfYourBattery.com.