How to Extend the Lifespan of Rechargeable Batteries

Rechargeable batteries continue to take a deep root in our lives. Hardly is there any electronic device that does not rely on battery power or have the capacity to do so. Cell phones, iPods, Digital Cameras, Clocks, Laptops, Children Toys, just name it. For the average citizen the cost of purchasing rechargeable batteries usually amounts to a few hundred dollars each year. It is then important to learn how best to extend the life of your battery. Here are a few tips we have to help extend the lifespan of rechargeable batteries:

Buy Fresh Batteries – Check the manufacturers date before purchasing rechargeable batteries. And if it gives you a figure stating a manufacturing date of over a year ago, you shouldn’t buy such batteries. Experts have pointed out that dry cell batteries degrade over time even when they remain in manufacturers packaging. By purchasing fresh batteries you’re such of enjoying a battery capacity closer to 100%.

Follow Manufacturer’s Instructions – After purchasing rechargeable batteries, the first you need to do is read the instruction manual that accompanies it. Here you should find information telling you the ‘Do’s and ‘Don’ts’ of that particular battery. Most manuals will tell you never to short-circuit, overcharge, or recharge the battery using a battery charger that is not endorsed by the manufacturer. These points may not likely extend the life of your battery but they ensure these batteries don’t go dead before their time.  

Drain the Battery Fully Every Now and Then – This advice is especially useful if you are using any Apple products. Apple makes their batteries to last longer as they undergo higher discharge cycles. You should every now and again drain your batteries fully. This helps to condition your batteries properly. Be aware that this procedure is counter-productive for lithium-ion batteries.

Store your rechargeable batteries in a cool environment – Rechargeable batteries are widely known to undergo a gradual capacity loss over time. This capacity loss is accelerated by increases in temperature and in some cases the frequency of battery usage. Try keeping Li-ion batteries warm between 20C to 25C (68F to 99F). Do not expose any types of batteries to extreme temperature by storing them in a freezer. A refrigerator is somewhat better for this purpose.  

Do Not Mix Old and New Batteries – This has been a common sense rule that dates back several centuries. For some reason known to the experts, scientists have discovered that it is better to replace all batteries at once rather than one at a time. If you have not noticed already, old batteries that tend to get ‘wet/leak electrolyte’ over time. This may afflict your new batteries thus depriving you of maximum battery performance.