Today's best Dyson vacuums feature powerful batteries that can last up to 70 minutes on a single charge. However, proper care is essential for maintaining battery longevity and overall vacuum performance.
With cordless vacuums, the battery often wears out first (cordless models typically have shorter lifespans than corded ones). Although all current Dyson models come with removable batteries that can be swapped or replaced, treating your vacuum's battery with care can prevent premature replacements.
Here are five factors that can damage or accelerate the aging of your vacuum's battery, which you should avoid to maximize its lifespan. These tips are sourced from the Battery Care page on Dyson's site, and while they are specific to Dyson vacuums, most are applicable to any cordless vacuum brand.
1. Overusing Boost Mode
All Dyson cordless vacuums feature a Boost/Max mode that provides increased suction power. While this can be useful, frequent use drains the battery quickly and accelerates degradation. Dyson recommends using Auto or Normal mode for regular cleaning, reserving Boost for intensive spot cleaning.
The latest Dyson models offer three suction modes: Eco, Auto, and Boost. Auto mode adjusts suction based on the floor type and its cleanliness, ensuring effective cleaning without unnecessarily draining the battery.
2. Charging Immediately After Use
Many users plug their vacuum back into its charging dock right after use. However, Dyson suggests allowing the battery to cool down before charging. This practice promotes lithium-ion redistribution and reduces stress from high currents and temperatures, ultimately enhancing battery capacity for future use.
Amit Gupta, Head of Electrical Power Systems at Dyson, explains that charging at cooler temperatures minimizes internal pressure and unwanted side effects, contributing to battery health. Dyson vacuums are equipped with a Battery Management System (BMS) that monitors temperature and only initiates charging once it cools to the recommended level, preventing thermal stress.
3. Not Fully Draining the Battery
If you tend to recharge your vacuum before it drops below 50% battery life, you might want to reconsider. Dyson recommends allowing the battery to fully drain at least once a month to help prolong its lifespan. If you have a backup battery, alternating between the two can also help maintain their health.
Gupta notes that occasionally running a lithium-ion battery flat can recalibrate its remaining capacity, improving runtime accuracy. However, this method is not a permanent solution for restoring lost battery capacity.
4. Storing in Hot Environments
As mentioned earlier, your vacuum's battery does not perform well in high temperatures. Avoid storing it in hot places like boiler cupboards or near radiators. Dyson advises keeping the vacuum in a temperature range between 64.4°F (18°C) and 82.4°F (28°C) to prevent battery damage.
5. Exposing to Cold Temperatures
Just as heat can harm your vacuum's battery, cold temperatures can also be detrimental. Dyson warns against storing vacuums in garages or cold porches during winter. If the temperature drops below 37°F (3°C), the vacuum will not charge or operate to protect its components.