Hey everyone! I just got my hands on a new drill combo with two M18 XC 5Ah batteries. I've been using one of the batteries for both a grinder and a hammer drill to install a threshold. Overall, I think I used it for about 20 minutes of continuous work. However, I noticed by the end, the battery was down to just one bar, and it was fully charged just this morning. Is this normal? I thought these bigger batteries would last longer, especially during demanding tasks like grinding. What do you guys think?
3 Answers
Yeah, that's actually pretty normal when using grinders. They tend to eat up battery life more quickly than other tools, so don’t worry too much about it. If you plan on doing a lot of grinding, consider getting a higher amp battery like an 8Ah or even a 12Ah for better performance.
Yep, grinders do tend to suck battery life fast. The way you used it sounds about right, especially if you were pushing it hard. Just keep an eye on the battery level and recharge as needed. You've got this!
Thanks for the reassurance, everyone! It makes me feel a lot better about it!
Honestly, grinders are some of the toughest tools on batteries. They draw a lot of current, especially when used continuously. I suggest charging your battery once it hits around 2 bars, that way you start each task with a full battery, and you can get the most out of it.
Exactly! And, they can drain batteries just like circular saws do but since you’re grinding for a longer time, it really takes a toll.

Totally agree! Grinders are notorious for being power-hungry. Bigger batteries will definitely help if you're gonna be using one for extended periods.