Charge Indicators; Important Charging Notes - DeWalt DC390 Instruction Manual

Charge Indicators

Some chargers are designed to detect certain problems that can arise
with battery packs. Problems are indicated by the red light flashing at
a fast rate. If this occurs, re-insert battery pack into the charger. If the
problem persists, try a different battery pack to determine if the charger
is OK. If the new pack charges correctly, then the original pack is
defective and should be returned to a service center or other collection
site for recycling. If the new battery pack elicits the same trouble
indication as the original, have the charger tested at an authorized
service center.
HOT/COLD PACK DELAY
Some chargers have a Hot/Cold Pack Delay feature: when the charger
detects a battery that is hot, it automatically starts a Hot Pack Delay,
suspending charging until the battery has cooled. After the battery
has cooled, the charger automatically switches to the Pack Charging
mode. This feature ensures maximum battery life. The red light flashes
long, then short while in the Hot Pack Delay mode.
PROBLEM POWER LINE
Some chargers have a Problem Power Line indicator. When the
charger is used with some portable power sources such as generators
or sources that convert DC to AC, the charger may temporarily
suspend operation, flashing the red light with two fast blinks
followed by a pause. This indicates the power source is out of limits.
LEAVING THE BATTERY PACK IN THE CHARGER
The charger and battery pack can be left connected with the red light
glowing indefinitely. The charger will keep the battery pack fresh and
fully charged.
NOTE: A battery pack will slowly lose its charge when kept out of
the charger. If the battery pack has not been kept on maintenance
charge, it may need to be recharged before use. A battery pack may
also slowly lose its charge if left in a charger that is not plugged into
an appropriate AC source.
WEAK BATTERY PACKS: Chargers can also detect a weak battery
pack. Such batteries are still usable but should not be expected to
perform as much work. The charger will indicate to replace battery
pack.

Important Charging Notes

1. Longest life and best performance can be obtained if the battery
pack is charged when the air temperature is between 65 °F and
75 °F (18 °–24 °C). DO NOT charge the battery pack in an air
temperature below +40 °F (+4.5 °C), or above +105 °F (+40.5 °C).
This is important and will prevent serious damage to the battery
pack.
2. The charger and battery pack may become warm to touch while
charging. This is a normal condition, and does not indicate a
problem. To facilitate the cooling of the battery pack after use,
avoid placing the charger or battery pack in a warm environment
such as in a metal shed, or an uninsulated trailer.
3. If the battery pack does not charge properly:
a. Check operation of receptacle by plugging in a lamp or other
appliance;
b. Check to see if receptacle is connected to a light switch which
turns power off when you turn out the lights;
c. Move charger and battery pack to a location where the
surrounding air temperature is approximately 65 °F–75 °F (18
°– 24 °C);
d. If charging problems persist, take the tool, battery pack and
charger to your local service center.
4. The battery pack should be recharged when it fails to produce
sufficient power on jobs which were easily done previously. DO
NOT CONTINUE to use under these conditions. Follow the
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