is it okay to leave my dewalt battery on the charger all the time?

Diagnosis

You're asking about the impact of continuous charging on the health of your DeWalt 20V Max battery. This is a common concern for cordless tool users.

How to Fix It

Yes, it is generally okay to leave your DeWalt 20V Max battery on its compatible charger (like the DCB115 that often comes with the DCD771C2 kit). The charger is designed with a maintenance or "trickle charge" mode. Here's the proper procedure:

1. Plug the charger into the AC outlet first.
2. Insert the battery pack. The charger will begin a fast charge.
3. Once the battery is fully charged (indicated by a solid red light on most DeWalt chargers), the charger automatically switches to maintenance mode. It monitors the battery and applies a small, safe current only as needed to keep it at 100% without causing overcharge damage.
4. You can leave the battery in the charger until you need it.

If That Didn't Work

For optimal long-term battery health, consider these alternative practices:

• For Seasonal Storage: If you won't be using the tool for several months (e.g., over winter), it is a recommended best practice by DeWalt to store the battery in the charger in a cool, dry place. The charger will keep it properly maintained.
• If Concerned: If you prefer not to leave it on the charger, you can charge it fully, then store it separately in a cool, dry location. However, you should plan to recharge it every 6-12 months as it will self-discharge over time.
• Check the Indicator: If the charger light behaves erratically (blinking red/green) with a battery left on it, remove the battery. This signals a potential fault with the battery or charger that requires inspection.

Heads Up

Always plug the charger into the wall outlet before inserting the battery pack. Never use the charger with non-DeWalt battery packs, as this can lead to fire or explosion. Ensure the charger's air vents are not blocked to prevent overheating.