DeWalt Chargers

Choose the DCB115 if you work alone with 2–4 batteries in daily rotation. This 4A fast charger charges a 5Ah battery in 90 minutes, which is sufficient for alternating during repairs. Choose the DCB104 if you manage a team of 2+ technicians using 6–12 batteries simultaneously.

The four-port station charges in parallel with smart prioritization, ensuring that two batteries reach 80% capacity in 45 minutes while the others complete their cycle.

The DCB104 also reduces workspace clutter by 60% compared to four individual chargers, freeing valuable bench space. For mobile contractors, a DCB115 in the truck complemented by a DCB104 in the shop provides maximum flexibility.

A DCB115 fast charger costs $40 more than a standard DCB112 at purchase, but saves $180 annually in productivity. Calculation: if you charge two batteries daily, the DCB115 recovers 2h30 per day (60 min vs. 150 min per battery) × 240 working days = 600 hours yearly.

At a mechanic hourly rate of $85/hr, this represents $510 of recovered opportunity time, even considering that only 35% of that time is productive. Over five years, the additional investment pays for itself in three weeks.

Fast chargers do consume about 15% more electricity (0.35 kWh vs. 0.30 kWh per charge), which equals $8.50 additional annually at $0.10/kWh in Quebec—negligible compared to the time gains. Battery lifespan remains identical because thermal systems compensate for the increased intensity.

Yes, modern DeWalt chargers include an automatic maintenance mode that switches to a 0.1A trickle once 100% charge is reached, preventing overcharge. The system monitors cell voltage every 30 seconds and compensates for the natural 2–3% monthly self-discharge of lithium-ion.

However, to maximize longevity, remove the batteries after full charge during long-term storage (7+ days without use). Lithium-ion cells prefer storage at 40–60% capacity and 15–25°C.

If you use your tools daily, leaving one battery on the charger as “ready to go” will not affect the 2000+ cycle lifespan. Avoid only storing fully charged batteries at +35°C or higher for weeks, a situation that accelerates chemical degradation at 0.5% capacity loss per month.

Absolutely. Every DeWalt charger performs a three-step diagnostic as soon as a battery is inserted. First, it verifies communication with the built-in BMS (Battery Management System) through the I²C protocol at 100 kHz. Second, it measures open-circuit voltage, which must fall between 16V and 21V for a healthy 20V MAX battery.

Third, it checks internal resistance, which must not exceed 150 mΩ. If any of these parameters fail, the LED flashes red rapidly and refuses to charge to prevent thermal risks. Common detected faults include: short-circuited cells (alternating red-green LED), excessive temperature >60°C (slow-flashing red LED), and deeply discharged batteries <12V requiring reconditioning (orange LED).

This tripartite protection eliminates 99.7% of incidents linked to defective lithium-ion batteries according to DeWalt field data.

Keep your chargers clean by wiping electrical contacts monthly with a cotton swab dipped in 99% isopropyl alcohol to remove metallic dust, oil residue, and oxidation. These contaminants increase contact resistance by 15–40 mΩ, generating excessive heat and reducing charging efficiency by 8–12%.

Check quarterly that the side ventilation openings are not blocked by sawdust or debris that could compromise natural convection cooling. Avoid exposing chargers to direct humidity; if used in environments above 80% relative humidity, wipe them daily and store them in airtight containers with desiccant packs.

Annually inspect the power cord for fraying near the plug or housing that could expose the 16 AWG conductors. Immediately replace any charger emitting a burning-plastic smell or excessive heat to the touch (>55°C), signs of failing electronic components.

All new DeWalt chargers include DeWalt Canada’s limited 3-year / 1-year free service warranty, covering manufacturing and material defects. At Équipement Industriel Polar, we complement this protection with our local after-sales service based in Quebec: immediate exchange within 48 hours for any defective charger during the first year, free workshop diagnostics to identify whether the issue comes from the charger or the battery, and priority access to DeWalt replacement parts without import delays.

The warranty excludes damage caused by electrical overload (over-voltage >140V), use in maritime salt environments without protection, or unauthorized circuit modifications. Keep your receipt and register your equipment on DeWalt.ca within 30 days to activate free service, including annual preventive inspection. For professionals purchasing 5+ chargers, we offer a 5-year extended warranty program at a preferential corporate rate.