Would having the receptacle wired "backwards" cause a problem with
battery chargers for cordless tools, etc.?

Both my Milwaukee batteries seem to have become basically unusable due
to their charges lasting a very short time, and I just found out that
the outlet I've been using has the wires reversed.

Have to check the one I've been using for the camera as well, since
that has dies an timely death as well.

And, if anyone has readily accessible any sites for getting new
batteries, I'd appreciate if you'd share (yes, I'm going to do a
google as well).

Thanx
Renata