Batteries: what causes them to fail?
Rechargeable batteries do not die suddenly but gradually get weaker over time. The ability to hold charge diminishes through aging, usage (cycling), handling and environmental conditions. Batteries seem to have their own inherited life span. A fixed replacement plan, in which all batteries are replaced at a certain age, does not work well. Rather, each battery should periodically be analyzed and only those replaced whose capacity drops below an acceptable performance threshold. Implementing such a maintenance program reduces unexpected downtime caused by weak batteries and saves money. Unexpected downtime due to failing batteries can cause tense moments for the equipment operator. Some people may even seek legal compensation for personal damages suffered by a failing battery.