Frequently Asked Questions

Is it a good idea to store batteries in a refrigerator or freezer?
No. storage in a refrigerator or freezer is not required or recommended for batteries produced today. Cold temperature storage can in fact harm batteries if condensation results in corroded contacts or label seal damage due to extreme temperature storage. To maximize performance and shelf life, store batteries at normal room temperatures with moderated humidity levels (35% to 65% RH).

Why is mixing batteries of different chemistries, brands or age a potential problem?
Mixing of battery types (Different chemistry, brands and/or fresh vs. used) in a device is not recommended and can significantly increase the potential for leakage and reduced device run time. The primary concern is an imbalance in capacities or available energy between the installed batteries. As the weakest battery becomes exhausted, it will be force discharged by the stronger batteries to very low or negative voltage levels which drastically increases the potential for leakage.

What kind of batteries can be recharged?
Only batteries that are labeled as rechargeable are capable of being safely recharged. Attempting to recharge non-rechargeable batteries greatly increases the potential for leakage and rupture. Charging must be conducted in chargers specially approved for each product type which may vary depending on brand and model of both battery and charger.

How long can I store batteries?
When stored at room temperature, cylindrical alkaline batteries have a shelf life of 5 to 7 years. Prolonged storage a elevated temperatures will shorten storage life.

How can I test batteries to see if they're still good?
A better tester (loaded voltmeter) is a simple and effective way to determine if a battery is good or bad. Most testers place an appropriate load on the batteries and then read the voltage. A voltmeter without a load can give very misleading information and is not recommended for this purpose. Note that testers are typically not capable of providing reliable run time estimates.

Why doesn't my flashlight work well in cold weather?
Alkaline batteries contain a water based electrolyte. As the battery temperature approaches the freezing point of water, chemical reactions within the battery slow down due to reduced ion mobility. Ion mobility defines the ability of electrons to freely move, critical to the generation of electricity through a chemical reaction. The net result is a reduction in overall performance or run time which can be recovered as temperatures approach typical room conditions.

Are there any potential dangers or safety issues carrying loose batteries in a purse or pocket?
Yes, batteries a can be short-circuited by metal items such as coins, keys, paperclips etc. A battery that is subjected to a short circuit can become very hot and increase the potential for leakage and personal injury.

How long will my batteries last in a device?
There are several factors that impact length of service or run time. The most important aspect is the rate at which the device consumes power. A high drain device such as a digital camera will deplete a battery faster than a low drain device like a clock. Other factors affecting overall battery performance are environmental conditions, device usage patterns (continuous or intermittent) and battery size/chemistry.

How is the rated capacity of a battery determined?
The capacity of a battery is typically expressed in milli-amp hours (mAh). For primary batteries, samples are discharged at a specific current drain (i.e. 25mA) and time recorded to a cutoff voltage (i.e. 0.8 volts). The time (hours) it takes the battery to reach the cutoff voltage is then multiplied by the current drain to establish the mAh capacity of the battery.

Does the capacity of a battery change with the drain rate?
A battery is typically much more fuel efficient at lower current drains. Therefore, available capacity will drop significantly as drain rates and/or the voltage functional endpoint.

What increases the possibility for alkaline battery leakage?
Typically alkaline batteries will not leak under normal storage and/or usage conditions. The potential for leakage is significantly increased however if the batteries are subjected to charging, mixing of battery chemistry, mixing of fresh and used batteries, physical damage, extended exposure to high temperature or deep discharge. Alkaline battery leakage is extremely caustic and contact with bare skin should be avoided. In the event that battery leakage comes in contact with your skin, flush the area for 15 minutes with lots of water and seek medical attention.

Are cylindrical alkaline batteries considered hazardous waste?
In the United States and many other countries cylindrical alkaline batteries are classified as common household waste. Great strides have been made in making alkaline batteries more environmentally friendly which have been manufactured free of added mercury since the mid 1990.s. Classification details may vary however and should be confirmed in each specific geographical location.