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Batteries

Batteries
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Batteries are produced in all shapes and sizes. Some batteries contain dangerous metals such as mercury, silver, lead or cadmium. Size alone isn't the best guide - some of the tiniest batteries are the most hazardous!

Reduction Tips

Consider rechargeable batteries for frequently used equipment. Rechargeable batteries are the cheapest over time. Nickel metal hydride rechargeable batteries last for 300 - 600 charges, contain no cadmium or other hazardous metals and can be recycled.

Recycling & Disposal Information

Identify the type of battery to determine how to dispose of it. Label information, battery shape, or the packaging information may identify the type. Information on battery type is also included in the below charts. Once you have identified the type, follow these disposal instructions:

 

Type: Alkaline and Carbon-Zinc (sometimes labeled as "Heavy-duty" or "General purpose")

Description

Mainly produced in the following sizes: A, AA, AAA, C, D, N, 9-volt and lantern. Not rechargeable.

Use

Calculators, cameras, portable stereos, radios, tape and compact disc players, most toys, flashlights, smoke detectors, clocks, other products.

Disposal Information

OK to throw in the garbage if they were made after 1993. If made prior to 1993, contact your county for more information.

Type: Rechargeable

Description

Lithium ion, nickel cadmium, nickel metal hydride, small sealed lead acid. Look for the RBRC seal.RBRC Seal
Mainly produced in the following sizes: D, C, AAA, AA, 9-volt and battery packs of various shapes.

Use

Cell phones, cordless phones, laptop computers, personal care products, power tools, video cameras, other cordless products.

Disposal Information

Some contain hazardous metals. Do not throw them in the garbage. 

A depleted battery may still contain a residual charge.  Place each battery into an individual plastic bag or place non-conductive tape over the battery terminals to prevent short-circuiting during storage and transport.

For recycling locations near you, call Rechargeable Battery Recycling Corporation at 1-800-8-BATTERY. Some counties and cities also accept rechargeable batteries.

Type: Lithium 

Description

Lithium - non rechargeable. Cylindrical lithium batteries are produced in various sizes (AA, AAA , 1.5-volt, 3-volt, and 9-volt)

Use

Photographic and high-drain applications, medical devices, smoke detectors , other products.

Disposal Information

Lithium batteries are hazardous if not completely drained.

A depleted battery may still contain a residual charge.  Place each battery into an individual plastic bag or place non-conductive tape over the battery terminals to prevent short-circuiting during storage and transport. 

Type: Button

Description

May be alkaline, lithium (similar to apperance to coins), mercuric oxide, nickel cadmium, silver oxide or zinc air. May be combined into stacks to produce cylindrical batteries.

Use

Cameras, calculators, handheld games, hearing aids, keyless remotes, personal digital assistants, watches, other products.

Disposal Information

Some may contain hazardous metals. Do not throw in the garbage.

A depleted battery may still contain a residual charge.  Place each battery into an individual plastic bag or place non-conductive tape over the battery terminals to prevent short-circuiting during storage and transport. 

Some jewelers, photo stores, and battery retailers that sell button batteries will accept button batteries for recycling at no cost. Some counties accept button batteries at their household hazardous waste collection site.

Type: Automotive 

Description

Lead Acid

Use

Cars, motorcycles, boats, golf carts, other products

Disposal Information

Contain hazardous materials. It is against the law to throw lead acid batteries in the garbage. Businesses selling automotive batteries are required to take used batteries (up to 5 per consumer) whether you buy a new one or not.  Some counties accept lead acid batteries at their household hazardous waste collection site.