Equipment Savvy
exhaust to juggle, you can save time and money. And they make quick jobs such as trimming fence lines, clearing branches or repairing gates even quicker and easier, without making you haul fuel cans, pull cords or worry about indoor emissions.
Battery systems also offer surprising power. Modern highcapacity batteries provide consistent torque throughout their charge, and many platforms allow a single battery to power multiple tools. For smaller projects or intermittent work, this can make battery tools more convenient than their gas counterparts.
Know the Limits
Of course, battery power isn’ t perfect. For all their convenience, battery-operated tools have limits. Heavy-duty, continuous jobs— such as cutting firewood for hours, mowing large acreages and all-day repair or maintenance tasks— still are a better match for high-stamina gas-powered equipment. And while batteries have improved, cold snaps or storing them for prolonged periods can reduce their runtime and lifespan.
Durability matters, too. Farm environments are tough on tools. Exposure to mud, dust or moisture can shorten the service life of tools if they’ re not regularly cleaned and stored properly. Keeping batteries indoors when you’ re not using them, rotating them for even use and following manufacturer maintenance tips will extend their performance.
Smarter Planning With Smarter Tools
Having a tool shed that blends battery tools with traditional machinery can make your days more efficient and keep your workflow flexible. Reserve your high-powered, fuel-driven equipment for demanding jobs, but keep battery tools handy for lighter, quick-turnaround tasks.
For example, repairing a pasture fence could mean using a cordless drill and impact driver for repairs and letting tractors handle posts and larger loads. Or use a battery-powered hedge trimmer to clear a narrow path where larger equipment can’ t fit. By planning your jobs this way, you reduce wear and tear on your big machines while saving yourself time and fuel.
Seasonal planning is important, too. When the seasons change, use it as a reminder to take stock of your equipment’ s electrical systems and electric tools. Before planting season or during the slower winter months, build time into your schedule for routine maintenance.
Here’ s what to consider:
• Deep-cleaning connections and terminals
• Updating software and running system diagnostics
• Checking stored batteries for charge levels and cycling them if needed
• Replacing worn cables, clips or harnesses that could fail under pressure
A small investment of time during these off-peak periods keeps your equipment running when you need it most.
Being proactive also lets you stay ahead of unwanted downtime and expensive breakdowns during peak season. Set reminders to log inspections and maintenance. Even a quick weekly walk-around can help you catch a loose wire or damaged connector before it snowballs into a larger repair.
The Bottom Line
Electrical systems might be the most vulnerable part of modern farm equipment, but they don’ t have to slow you down. Regular inspections, clean storage and smart maintenance will keep your machines ready for anything.
Similarly, battery-powered tools won’ t replace heavy hitters, but they are a smart, efficient complement to the gas-powered equipment and tools you already have. With the right care, they’ ll save you time, fuel and frustration on everyday jobs.
The key to being more efficient is to keep your wiring tight, your batteries charged and your workflow flexible. When your tools— both old-school and high-tech— are ready to go, you’ ll spend less time troubleshooting and more time getting work done in the field.
Battery Tool Essentials
• Rotate and charge batteries regularly.
• Store batteries indoors during extreme heat or cold.
• Match battery size and voltage to the job’ s demands.
• Clean and dry tools after every use.
• Use only the manufacturer’ s battery charger.
• Unplug batteries when fully charged.
• Label batteries by purchase date or number for easy rotation.
• Clean battery vents with compressed air to prevent overheating.
• Check battery contacts for dirt or corrosion before charging.
• Keep a few spare batteries charged and ready.
• Transport batteries in protective cases to prevent damage.
• Inspect batteries for cracks, leaks or swelling and retire damaged ones.
• Cycle batteries every few weeks if they sit unused.
• Never leave batteries in equipment during long storage.
• Use rapid chargers during heavy workdays to minimize downtime.
14 | 515-574-2206 | 515-574-2189 | November 2025