Keep All Your Batteries Working | |
Standard (carbon zinc) Battery All batteries have a limited shelf life and will eventually wear out even if you don't use them. For example, a standard carbon zinc battery for a flashlight has an expected shelf life of 3-4 years. Before you purchase batteries look at the expiration date. Don't purchase a large supply of these batteries unless they will all be put to immediate use. Store unused batteries in a cool, dry location in their original containers. Remove the batteries from battery-operated devices like a portable radio, flashlight and tape recorder and store them separately, especially if the batteries are low or run down. Old batteries left in these household products for extended periods of time may develop leaks or swell and damage the device. Alkaline Battery Alkaline batteries contain more energy than standard batteries and have a longer shelf life, typically 5-6 years. Alkaline batteries should be stored in a cool location but can be left in a flashlight or radio for long periods because they do not swell or leak as they age. Rechargeable (Nickel-Cadmium or NiCad) Battery The useful life of a rechargeable battery can be maximized by keeping the battery fully recharged. But avoid recharging it in extremely hot or cold temperatures and use only the designated battery charger designed for the battery you have. Newer NiCad batteries do not have the memory problems that older varieties had so you don't have to fully discharge them every time prior to recharging them. If the useful working time of the battery seems to fall off, fully discharge it and recharge the battery to restore full capacity. Store rechargeable batteries or any device containing rechargeable batteries with a full charge and place them in a cool location. Protect the batteries from freezing. Do not throw any battery into a fire because it may explode. Contact your local fire department about how to dispose of them properly. written by Gene and Katie Hamilton Copyright HouseNet Inc. |