Quick answer
- A flashing red light on a Ridgid charger can mean a battery fault or a temperature hold. What it means depends on your charger model, so check the LED legend in its owner's manual.
- Make sure the battery is not too hot or too cold. Lithium-ion packs can enter a thermal lockout.
- Test the charger with a different known-good Ridgid battery to tell a bad pack from a bad charger.
- If the problem persists after these checks, consider replacing the battery or contacting Ridgid support.
Symptoms
When your Ridgid charger shows a flashing red light, you may notice:
- LED pattern: the red light flashes. Whether that is a temperature hold or a fault varies by charger model, and the owner's manual for your exact charger has the legend.
- Behavior under load: if the battery is inserted but the tool does not run, the battery may not be charging properly or may be faulty.
Quick checks
- Battery temperature: feel the battery. If it is hot, let it cool for at least 30 minutes before charging again. If it is cold, bring it to room temperature.
- Charger test: try a different, known-good Ridgid 18V battery in the same charger to see whether the charger behaves normally.
- Battery condition: look for swelling or corrosion. Damaged batteries should not be used.
- Connections: plug the charger into a working outlet and keep the contacts clean and free of debris.
- Charger model: confirm you are using the charger supplied for, or listed for, your battery. Check the label on both.
Step-by-step fix
- Remove the battery from the charger before troubleshooting.
- Inspect the battery for damage or wear. A swollen or corroded battery needs to be replaced.
- Check the charger LED with no battery inserted. If it does not light up or shows an unusual pattern, the charger may be defective.
- Cool or warm the battery to room temperature. Lithium-ion batteries have built-in protection that prevents charging under extreme temperatures.
- Reinsert the battery and compare the LED with the legend in your charger's manual.
- Test with another battery to find out whether the original battery or the charger is the problem.
If the battery still does not charge after these steps, consider a replacement.
View Ridgid 18V Battery (AC840087 or AC840089) on Amazon (paid link)
If it still isn't working
- Warranty service: Ridgid products carry a 3-year limited warranty. Eligible tools registered within 90 days of purchase can also qualify for the Lifetime Service Agreement; check register.ridgidpower.com for the current terms and what is covered.
- Service center: contact Ridgid customer support to find a service center that can diagnose the problem.
- Replacement: if the charger or battery is confirmed faulty and out of warranty, buying a new unit may be necessary.
FAQ
Why is my Ridgid battery charger flashing red?
It can be a temperature hold or a fault with the battery or charger. The exact meaning depends on your charger model, so use the legend in its manual.
Can I charge a cold battery?
Most lithium-ion packs will not charge when they are too cold. Warm the battery to room temperature before charging, and check your charger's manual for its charging range.
How can I tell if my charger is faulty?
Test it with a different battery. If it charges the second battery without issue, the original battery may be the problem.
What should I do if my battery is swollen?
Do not use a swollen battery. Swollen or damaged packs are not accepted in most retail drop-off bins, so take it to a household hazardous waste facility.
How long does Ridgid's warranty last?
Ridgid lists a 3-year limited warranty on its power tools. Check Ridgid's registration page for the current terms.