Rechargeable Batteries- Not Good For Every Use

Limit Environment Damage Caused By Batteries Using Rechargeable

Using batteries that can be recharged multiple times is a great idea for several reasons.  They are better for the environment compared to single use batteries.  Rechargeable batteries save money over their lifetime as you buy one then charge it again without replacing it.  These batteries do have a limited lifespan like everything in this world.  Eventually they will reach the end of their useful life and become non-functional, but that is dependent on how you use them.

Benefits Of Rechargeable

The benefits up front are pretty simple.  They are much better for the environment compared to single use batteries.  Since many people do not know how to properly dispose of one-time-users, they often end up in the landfill.  After sitting and decomposing, they begin to pollute and take a toll on the world.  If people knew and consistently disposed of these batteries properly, we would be able to recycle far more than we do now.  Most batteries will release harmful metals into the soil and groundwater.  In California it is actually illegal to dispose of any battery type through the trash.

Economics of using rechargeable batteries is another plus.  You will have a higher upfront investment, however this will typically be realized after 3-4 uses depending on how they are used.  This point is straight forward, need I say more?  With use over time, you will save money if you do your part.

I cannot pull data on this, but it has been said that rechargeable batteries use less energy than disposable counterparts.  The theory goes that recharging batteries requires less energy and resources compared to producing entirely new one-time-use batteries.  Interesting thing to think about, it makes sense in theory but again I cannot find much reliable data.

The final benefit this article will address is that with rechargeables you will eventually save time.  How this works is when you use rechargeable batteries you buy them somewhere.  That takes time to go out, purchase, return home, remove them from the packaging and then implement.  Using rechargeables takes travel, acquisition and removal from packaging out by replacing them with recharging.  Over 100 uses I can see how this would incrementally be a benefit.  Not something short term but it makes good sense over time.

Downsides To Theses Amazing Batteries

With the aforementioned upsides, there are some drawbacks here.  First, you will need to recharge the batteries at some point.  Many of the mainstream rechargeable products do take some time to completely recharge.  By some time I mean a few hours.  The Energizers I have been happy using typically need somewhere around 4 hours to fill back up.  Some also will need to charge in pairs, so if you need one at a time make sure you buy the correct ones.

Another con would apply if you plan on using rechargeable batteries for a slow-draw device such as a TV remote or wall clock.  The better option for these would be a standard alkaline battery.  Standard alkaline batteries use power at much lower rates, thereby having a longer lifespan when used sparingly.  If you still want something you don’t mind taking the time to recharge, by all means use rechargeables here.  Just know at some point you will probably reach for the remote, it won’t work and you will need to take time to re-juice the batteries if you don’t have a set laying around ready.

Go Out And See For Yourself

If this is even something you are considering (if you have made it this far, then you probably are) go and get some rechargeables.  Test this out for yourself with a few devices, see if you can make them fit your lifestyle and decide.  If you buy more than great.  If not then just know the implications and how to properly dispose of your spent single-use batteries.  Today it has never been easier to properly ensure they do not end up in a landfill, polluting the planet.  I purchased a few pairs of rechargeable AA’s and AAA’s at least 5 years ago.  They are all still working and have saved me money no doubt.  Be well and be safe.