If you’re like me, you probably own some Milwaukee power tools that run on rechargeable batteries. These batteries are great, because they allow you to use your tools without worrying about cords or outlets. They also have a handy indicator that shows you how much charge they have left, so you don’t run out of juice in the middle of a project.
But sometimes, these batteries can act weird. Sometimes, when you try to charge them, instead of showing a steady green light that means they’re charging normally, they start flashing red and green lights that mean something is wrong. And when something is wrong with your battery, something is wrong with your tool. And when something is wrong with your tool, something is wrong with your life.
So what do these flashing red and green lights mean? And more importantly, how can you fix them? Well, that’s what this article is about. I’m going to show you how to fix Milwaukee battery flashing red and green using some easy tips that will guarantee 100% fast results. And by fast results, I mean results that will take at least several hours, if not days, to achieve. Because nothing is easy when it comes to batteries.
What Do the Flashing Red and Green Lights Mean?
Before we get into the solutions, let’s first understand the problem. What do the flashing red and green lights mean on your Milwaukee battery? Well, according to the official Milwaukee website¹, they mean this:
- If the red and green lights flash alternately for 5 seconds after inserting the battery pack into the charger, this indicates that the battery pack has been inserted incorrectly or is not making contact with the charger terminals. Remove the battery pack from the charger and reinsert it correctly.
- If the red and green lights flash alternately for 30 seconds after inserting the battery pack into the charger, this indicates that the battery pack has been exposed to extreme temperatures (below 32°F or above 122°F) and cannot be charged until it reaches a normal temperature range. Remove the battery pack from the charger and place it in a suitable environment for charging.
- If the red and green lights flash simultaneously for 30 seconds after inserting the battery pack into the charger, this indicates that there is a charging fault or error with the battery pack or charger. The battery pack needs to be removed and replaced with a new one or repaired by an authorized service center. The charger also needs to be checked for damage or defects.
So there you have it. Those are the possible meanings of the flashing red and green lights on your Milwaukee battery. But what if none of those scenarios apply to you? What if you inserted the battery correctly, kept it in a normal temperature range, and still got the flashing lights? What then?
Well, then you’re in trouble.
How to Fix Milwaukee Battery Flashing Red and Green
Now that you know what the flashing red and green lights mean on your Milwaukee battery, let’s see how you can fix them. There are several possible solutions, depending on the cause of the problem. Here are some steps you can try:
Step 1: Clean the Battery Terminals
The first thing you should do when your Milwaukee battery flashes red and green is to clean the battery terminals. These are the metal contacts on both ends of the battery that connect to the charger or tool. Sometimes, these terminals can get dirty or corroded from dust, moisture, or oxidation. This can prevent them from making a good connection and cause a charging fault or error.
To clean the battery terminals, you need to follow these steps:
- Remove the battery from the charger or tool.
- Use a dry cloth or paper towel to wipe off any dirt or debris from the terminals.
- Use a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol or vinegar to gently scrub off any corrosion or oxidation from the terminals.
- Use a dry cloth or paper towel to dry off any moisture from the terminals.
- Reinsert the battery into the charger or tool and see if it charges normally.
Step 2: Reset the Battery
If cleaning the battery terminals doesn’t work, you may need to reset the battery. This means resetting its internal circuitry and memory by draining its power completely and then recharging it fully. This can sometimes fix any glitches or errors that may have occurred in the battery’s system.
To reset the battery, you need to follow these steps:
- Remove the battery from the charger or tool.
- Insert it into a compatible tool that has a high power consumption, such as a circular saw or a grinder.
- Turn on the tool and run it until it stops working completely. This may take several minutes or hours depending on how much charge is left in the battery.
- Remove the battery from the tool and let it cool down for at least 15 minutes.
- Insert it into the charger and let it charge until it reaches 100%. This may take several hours or overnight depending on the battery capacity and charger output.
- Remove the battery from the charger and see if it works normally.
Step 3: Replace the Battery or Charger
If resetting the battery doesn’t work, you may need to replace the battery or charger. This means buying a new battery or charger that is compatible with your Milwaukee tools and has no defects or damages. This can be expensive, but it may be the only way to fix your problem.
To replace the battery or charger, you need to follow these steps:
- Check the warranty of your battery or charger. If it is still valid, you may be able to get a free replacement or repair from Milwaukee or an authorized dealer. You can find the warranty information on the Milwaukee website² or on the product manual.
- If your warranty is expired or invalid, you may need to buy a new battery or charger from a reputable source. You can find genuine Milwaukee products on their website³ or on other online platforms such as Amazon⁴. Make sure you buy the right model and size for your tools and needs.
- Dispose of your old battery or charger properly. Do not throw them in the trash or in a fire. They contain hazardous materials that can harm the environment and cause explosions. Take them to a recycling center or a hazardous waste facility that accepts lithium-ion batteries and chargers.
How to Prevent Milwaukee Battery Flashing Red and Green
Now that you know how to fix Milwaukee battery flashing red and green, let’s see how you can prevent it from happening again. Here are some tips and tricks that will help you avoid charging faults or errors on your Milwaukee batteries:
- Don’t overcharge or undercharge your batteries. Charge them only when they are low and unplug them when they are full. Don’t leave them on the charger for too long or too short.
- Don’t expose your batteries to extreme temperatures. Keep them in a cool and dry place away from direct sunlight and heat sources. Don’t use them in very hot or cold conditions.
- Don’t drop or damage your batteries. Handle them with care and protect them from shocks, impacts, punctures, or cuts. Don’t use them if they are cracked, swollen, leaking, or smoking.
- Don’t mix and match your batteries and chargers. Use only compatible products that are designed for each other. Don’t use third-party or counterfeit products that may have poor quality or safety standards.
Conclusion
So there you have it, folks. That’s how you fix Milwaukee battery flashing red and green using some easy tips that will guarantee 100% fast results. And by fast results, I mean results that will take at least several hours, if not days, to achieve.
But hey, don’t let Milwaukee battery flashing red and green bring you down. Just follow these steps and you’ll be able to use your tools without any problems.
Or maybe not.
But at least you’ll have some fun along the way.