How Long Do Auto-Darkening Helmets Last?

The longevity of your auto-darkening helmet depends on several factors, including how well you take care of it.

For instance, if you’re going to have it rolling around in the back of your truck getting dirty and damaged, it’s not likely to last very long.

However, with proper care, most auto-darkening helmets should last you around seven to ten years. This longevity has mostly to do with the sensors, lens, which can be replaced in some helmets, and with the battery.

It’s critical to keep in mind that the primary reasons that auto-darkening helmets fail are either the lens or the battery. With many cheap helmets, these components are not replaceable, so you’ll be forced to purchase a new one.

If you have had your auto-darkening helmet for many years, you might want to consider buying a new one – we reviewed all best models on the market.

Lens Longevity

The lens is the most vulnerable part of your auto darkening welding helmet. So you should always be mindful of how you handle it. Don’t drop or misuse your helmet, or you may cause damage to the lens, and it will have to be replaced.

Nevertheless, if you look after your helmet correctly, you should be able to get a solid seven to ten years out of the lens before it needs replacing. However, keep in mind that the lens can only be replaced on some helmets.

So, when choosing a helmet, it’s crucial to look for more than just the lens shade range. If you plan to use your helmet frequently, it’s nice to be able to change out the lens when you need it in the future, especially if you’re happy with the fit and comfort level overall.

Battery Longevity

Another factor contributing to how long your auto-darkening helmet will last is the type of battery it uses. Some batteries will need to be recharged and replaced more frequently than others.

Auto-darkening helmets often contain lithium-ion batteries that can be recharged either by plugging them into an electrical socket or automatically using solar cells. The most convenient and longest-lasting are those that use solar as a power source.

In general, the lifespan of most non-replaceable batteries in auto-darkening helmets is about seven years. For this reason, it’s generally a better investment to get a helmet with a replaceable battery. Many helmets are also solar-powered, which is usually more than enough for more people, and don’t take too long to charge.

Other Factors That Affect Lifespan

Other significant factors that affect your auto-darkening helmet’s lifespan include exposure to cold temperatures and storing it without power usage for long periods. Not only is the battery susceptible to losing power, but the LCD reaction time can be affected.

Below freezing temperatures impact the reaction time of the auto-darkening lens, so it’s best never to keep your helmet in a garage, shed, or back of a truck during the winter months. The last thing you want to do is shorten the lifespan of the lens of the auto-darkening helmet in storage.

The batteries in the helmet can also self-discharge if not used for long periods.