Philips Beard Trimmer's Batteries & Repairs

Introduction

A few years back, I decided to purchase a beard trimmer after my partner Rosie insisted that I needed one. I went with the Philips Series 5000, which I found in a supermarket. After a couple of years of use, it eventually failed. I then opted for a cheaper Philips model; however, that one failed too, this time due to a battery issue.

In an age where recycling is emphasized and our environmental consciousness is growing, it's quite surprising that manufacturers often design these products in a way that makes it incredibly challenging to replace the batteries. Instead of offering simple battery replacements, it seems they prefer you to buy a completely new trimmer, alongside its charger and all.

Fortunately, I managed to replace the battery in my second trimmer and documented the process in a video, which I'd like to share. I also plan to explore the more intricate design of the first one and how to disassemble it.

Disassembly Process

1. Remove the Trimmer Head: Start by pulling off the cutter head.
2. Remove the Top Cover: Use your thumbnail to unclip the top black cover, which is held by approximately 14 clips. This will come off along with the on/off button.
3. Unscrew the Internal Components: There are two screws at the top that need to be removed first. I chose not to put them back to demonstrate the removal.
4. Remove the Second Cover: Slide this cover towards the plug end of the device to lift it away.
5. Take Out the Stainless Steel Holder: Inside, there’s a stainless steel holder for the clippable head held by two screws, which can be removed with a Cross Point screwdriver.
6. Remove Further Screws: The internal mechanism can now be unclipped from the case. There are two more screws below the stainless-steel holder to remove.
7. Disassemble the Gearbox: You can lift out the mechanism. The gearbox cover can then come off, leading to the adjusting ring removal.

Interestingly, while disassembling, I accidentally pressed the on/off button and discovered the trimmer was still operational despite being out of charge for over two years. The issue turned out to be a broken connection at the switch rather than the battery itself.

Accessing the Battery

The light-colored plastic cover has six clips, which you must handle carefully to avoid breaking them, as they can be quite brittle. Once you’ve accessed the PCB, you’ll find the batteries soldered directly onto it. For replacement, it's preferable to use solder tab batteries, which are typically sold for outdoor lights.

Reassembly Process

1. Reconnect the Electronics: Slide the electronics assembly back into its place, ensuring it connects with the proper terminals.
2. Secure the PCB: Once back in, ensure to press the on/off button to verify it works before continuing.
3. Reassemble the Covers: Start putting the adjusting ring and covers back in place, ensuring everything fits properly.
4. Final Check and Test: After everything is back together, test it by shaving a small patch of hair to see if it works correctly.

In conclusion, I managed to fix my Philips beard trimmer without any cost, highlighting the importance of repairing rather than discarding items. With a little effort and understanding of the disassembly process, repairs can be completed swiftly and effectively.

Keywords

Philips, beard trimmer, battery, repair, disassembly, recycling, solder, PCB.

FAQ

Q: Why do beard trimmers fail?
A: Some common reasons include battery failure, broken internal connections, and wear and tear of the trimmer components.

Q: Can I replace the battery in my beard trimmer?
A: Yes, in many cases, the battery can be replaced, but it may require disassembling the device, which can be complicated.

Q: How do I disassemble a Philips beard trimmer?
A: Start by removing the cutter head and cover, then unscrew internal components, and finally access the battery. Specific steps may vary by model.

Q: Why are batteries soldered onto the PCB?
A: Soldering helps in maintaining a secure connection, but it complicates battery replacement, leading many people to discard the entire device instead.

Q: What should I consider before repairing my beard trimmer?
A: Ensure you have the right tools, understand the assembly process, and assess if the cost of repairs is worth it compared to buying a new one.