Why Lithium-Ion Powered Sprayers?
By: Kate Winzeler
Lithium-ion batteries have gradually overpowered traditional batteries by a storm. More than likely you come into contact with a lithium-ion battery every day, whether that be in the form of a phone, a laptop, or maybe even a car! Well did you know that all FlowZone garden sprayers are also powered by lithium-ion batteries?
But what is a lithium-ion battery exactly? What makes them so great? And how can you maximize the life of your FlowZone battery?
A lithium-ion battery is “ an advanced battery technology that uses lithium ions as a key component of its electrochemistry,” explained in an article by the Clean Energy Institute at the University of Washington. Even though lithium-ion batteries were technically invented in the 1970-80s, they didn’t gain popularity for years to come. According to an article by Battery University, “In 2009, roughly 38 percent of all batteries by revenue were Li-ion [...] Cost reduction, increase in specific energy, and the absence of toxic material paved the road to make Li-ion the universally acceptable battery for portable application…”
In recent years, the use of lithium-ion batteries has increased significantly, but what’s the hype around them? An article by ExplainThatStuff.com explains that lithium-ion batteries are known for being more reliable and less maintenance than older Ni-Cd batteries, which were commonly used in portable electronic devices. Due to their high-voltage, they have the ability to energize high-power objects. In addition, they are easier to dispose of because they are not comprised of cadmium, a toxic chemical.
However, as the case with all batteries, lithium-ion batteries aren’t the end all be all. While our rechargeable battery-powered sprayers have been designed to provide maximum trouble-free life, they will eventually wear out. The good news is that we have several tips that will help you maximize your sprayer’s battery life!
Recharge with FlowZone charger
Make sure you only charge your backpack sprayer battery with a branded FlowZone Charger. A charger that is suitable for one type of battery pack may create a risk of fire when used with another battery pack; FlowZone chargers are uniquely created for FlowZone Lithium-ion battery packs and are rated for 1,000 charge cycles!
Keep the battery away from metal
It is important to keep your battery pack (when it’s not being used) away from other metal objects that can make a connection from one terminal to another. Shorting the battery terminals poses a risk of severe burns or fires.
Follow charging instructions
Lithium-ion batteries should not be overheated, so be sure that you do not charge the battery pack outside the temperature range specified in the operation manual provided with your sprayer. Charging improperly or at a temperature outside the specified range may damage the battery and increase the risk of fire. Digital versions of FlowZone operation guides can be found here.
Store the battery below 80 degrees Fahrenheit
For the same reasons above, store the battery below 80 degrees F in a location that is free of moisture.
FlowZone Lithium-ion battery packs
Lithium-ion batteries deliver fade-free power for their entire run time. The sprayer battery will not gradually lose power due to decreasing battery charge. Instead, power from the battery pack will drop from full to zero once the full charge has drained from the battery. We recommend never letting the battery fully discharge, as it can significantly decrease the life of the battery. Instead, consistently charging the battery even while it’s in storage is suggested!
Battery Pack protection features
Lithium-ion battery packs are designed with features that protect the lithium-ion cells and maximize the battery life. If your sprayer stops during use, release the trigger to reset and resume the operation. If the sprayer still doesn’t work, the battery needs to be recharged.
If after 2 hours during the charging process and none of the LEDs are lit, remove the battery pack from the charger to avoid damaging the product. Please do NOT insert another battery. Instead, please contact Customer Support and we’ll be happy to help you replace your sprayer’s battery.
