How To Maximize Rechargeable & Replacement Batteries?

Answer 1

With the cost of new batteries being as high as they are today, buying rechargeable and replacement battery sets is much more cost-effective. This choice also reduces the amount of hazardous waste emptied into the landfills. Recharging devices and battery sets can be purchased for about the cost of 50 batteries. Most have a recharge number of at least 1,000. When used incorrectly, these batteries may have a much shorter life. This article will explain how to maximize the life of rechargeable batteries.

Be sure to use the batteries and chargers from the same manufacturer. For example, don't use a Duracell battery on an Energizer charger. Not all rechargeable batteries are made exactly the same, so this is very important. Some chargers may not be designed to charge other types of batteries, resulting in a slight charge and shorter overall life. Never over-charge a battery. When they are over-charged, they also overheat, which takes a great portion of the battery's life.

Always use the entire charge on a battery. Every time the battery is placed in the charging unit, this initiates a new cycle. Most people are unaware of this fact; it is not usually printed in instruction manuals or on the device's package. Using the battery for a while, then placing it on the charger when it has 30% of its charge cycle left will result in loss of that 30%. Each trip to the charger is what weakens the battery, even though it will be fully recharged. Always keep this in mind when deciding when to place batteries in the charger. Always keep a replacement set fully charged and ready to go, so it will be possible to use the entire charge cycle without being inconvenienced.

Don't let charged batteries sit unused for long periods of time. It is best to use batteries as soon as they're charged - or shortly after. If the replacement batteries must sit for a long time, charge them no more than a week or two before they will actually be needed. However, don't let the battery sit with absolutely no charge. There should be a charge of about 20%-50% as it sits. When batteries sit unattended, they will automatically lose their charge. A completely empty battery will stop working faster and the number of effective charge cycles will be reduced if it sits empty for a long period of time. Batteries should be stored away from sunlight in a cool and dry location.