How To Fix A Flashing Light On A Milwaukee Battery- Step By Step Processes

If you notice a flashing light on your Milwaukee battery, whether it’s an M12 or M18, it can indicate an issue with the battery pack. Understanding what the flashing light means is crucial for troubleshooting. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you identify and resolve the problem.  Let’s review some common causes of flashing lights and provide step-by-step instructions on how to fix them.

Common Causes for the Flashing Light on a Milwaukee Battery

There can be several reasons why the light on your Milwaukee battery is flashing. Always prioritize safety when dealing with batteries, consult the manufacturer’s instructions, or seek professional help if you are unsure about any troubleshooting steps. The flashing light could indicate that the battery is running low on power. Here is a list of common causes that you can check:

1. Low Battery
2. Overheating
3. Faulty Connection
4. Battery Age
5. Battery Defect

The Role of the Charger in the Flashing Light Issue

The flashing light issue on a Milwaukee battery can be attributed to the charger. A malfunctioning charger can trigger the flashing light, indicating a problem with the charger itself or the battery. The charger’s primary function is to charge the battery, but if it is not functioning properly, it can cause the battery to display a flashing light. It is crucial to ensure the charger works correctly to avoid this issue.

Neglecting the charger’s role in the flashing light problem can prolong the troubleshooting process. Therefore, if you encounter a flashing light on your Milwaukee battery, check the charger’s functionality before considering other potential causes.

Step-by-Step Processes to Fix a Flashing Light on a Milwaukee Battery

A flashing light on your Milwaukee battery typically signals a problem. Check the Milwaukee user manual for specific flash codes related to your battery model. This can help pinpoint the issue. The flash code can vary, but here are some common indications:

• Red Flashing Light: This often means you have a dead battery.
• Green Light: A steady green light usually indicates a healthy battery, but if it’s flashing, further investigation is needed.

Step-1: Check for Low Battery

Healthy Battery vs. Bad Battery. If you have a new battery, swap it out. If the new battery works, your original is likely dead.  Inspect the battery terminals for dirt or corrosion. If needed, clean them gently with a cloth.

1. Insert the Battery into the Charger: Place the battery on the charger and observe the indicator lights.
2. Good Battery: The battery is healthy if it shows a steady green light after charging.
3. Monitor Charging Status: If the light remains red, the battery is low. Allow it to charge fully.
4. Test the Battery: After charging, check if the battery operates tools. If not, it may be faulty.
5. Use a Multimeter: If comfortable, open the battery pack to check the voltage of each cell. If one cell is significantly lower, it indicates a bad battery.

Step-2: Assess for Overheating

1. Feel the Battery: Carefully touch the battery. If it’s hot, let it cool down for at least 30 minutes.
2. Try Charging Again: Once cooled, insert it into the charger again and see if it charges properly.

Step 3: Examine for Faulty Connections

1. Inspect the Battery Terminals: Check for dirt or corrosion. Clean the terminals with a dry cloth.
2. Check the Charger: Ensure the charger’s connections are secure and free of debris.

Step-4: Consider Battery Age

1. Review Purchase Date: If your battery is several years old, it may have reached the end of its lifespan.
2. Evaluate Performance: If it struggles to hold a charge, it might be time to replace it.

Step-5: Identify Battery Defects

1. Visual Inspection: Look for any cracks or swelling on the battery casing.
2. Check Warranty Status: If defects are found, and the battery is under warranty, contact Milwaukee for a replacement.

Step-6: Final Testing

1. Reinsert Battery into Tools: After performing the above checks, place the battery back into the tool.
2. Test Functionality: Pull the trigger or switch on the tool to see if it operates normally.

If the issue persists after these steps, consider reaching out to Milwaukee customer service or visiting a service center for further assistance.

Conclusion

Flashing lights on Milwaukee batteries indicate a problem with the battery, which, if not addressed promptly, can lead to a dead battery and hindered productivity. Many people may feel overwhelmed or intimidated by the thought of fixing a flashing light on their Milwaukee battery. Still, it can be simple with the right knowledge and tools. Proper storage and regular maintenance of your Milwaukee batteries will help prolong their lifespan and prevent potential issues. You can ensure that your Milwaukee batteries remain in good condition and provide reliable power for your tools.

FAQs

1. What does a flashing light on my Milwaukee M18 battery mean?
A flashing light usually indicates a dead battery or an issue with the battery terminals.

2. How can I tell if my Milwaukee battery is dead?
If the battery does not charge or operate your tools, and the flash code indicates a problem, it may be dead.

3. Can I fix a bad Milwaukee battery?
You can attempt to charge it or clean the terminals. If it doesn’t hold a charge, replacing it may be necessary.

4. What should I do if my battery is still under warranty?
Contact Milwaukee’s customer service or visit their eService portal for a warranty claim.

5. Why does my new battery flash when charging?
If a new battery is flashing, it may indicate a poor connection or an issue with the charger. Inspect both for problems.

Resource:

battery safety best practices: https://www.osha.gov/sites/default/files/publications/OSHA_3490.pdf

understanding lithium-ion batteries: https://batteryuniversity.com/article/bu-808-how-to-prolong-lithium-based-batteries

diagnosing charger issues: https://www.ifixit.com/Wiki/Battery_And_Charger_Troubleshooting

Milwaukee tool warranty support: https://www.milwaukeetool.com/Support/Registration-and-Warranty