Battery Storage & Care

What's the proper way to store a battery? Is it true that keeping batteries in the refrigerator extends their life? Can I mix chemistries, or brands?

Caring for your batteries can be a confusing process. One conventional myth circulating about battery care is that you should store your batteries in the refrigerator to maximize your battery life. This is not entirely true. Caring for your batteries is actually quite simple. You can get the most from your batteries by following these simple rules:

1. Don’t overheat. Do not attempt to charge non-rechargeable batteries. This will overheat them and could cause a fire. Keep batteries out of hot places, like your car. Your car can be an oven, and baking your batteries shortens their life.

2. Store properly. Keep your batteries in a cool, dry place. The refrigerator is cool, but not dry.  If you choose the refrigerator make sure you use a tightly sealed container.  You could also store your batteries in the refrigerator and maximize their life by using a silica gel to keep the batteries dry. This however, is an expensive and inconvenient option.  Do NOT freeze batteries.

3. Don’t short the connections. Keep your batteries organized. Don’t let the ends touch other metal objects or you’ll short the battery.

4. Don’t mix and match. Use the same chemistry and brand. Never mix old and new batteries. Never mix rechargeable and non-rechargeable batteries.

5. Properly dispose of used batteries. Go to call2recycle.org to find the recycling location nearest you. 

Following these simple steps will end up saving you money and hassle in the long run.