Many products utilize batteries in their functioning, including many that you no doubt have lying around your house. However, when it comes time to replace those batteries, you may be confused as to the best way to dispose of the old ones. This can lead you to accumulate a pile of batteries that you have no idea what to do with. This guide can help you determine the process appropriate for the dead batteries that you have lying around so you can rest assured that you’re disposing of them properly.
Some general advice applies to all types of batteries. Batteries should never be tossed in a fire, as they have a high potential to explode. Likewise, when you are storing batteries in preparation for taking them to dispose of, make sure it is in a cool, dry place where they won’t overheat, which can cause leaking or explosion. If you will be collecting dead batteries for a while before taking them to recycle, consider placing electrical tape over the battery charge terminals in case there is any remaining charge in any of the batteries.
Alkaline Batteries
Alkaline batteries are the standard, basic type of batteries that are found in many types of devices, from toys to flashlights. They come in a variety of sizes that indicate their voltage capacity. You may have heard conflicting advice regarding the disposal of alkaline batteries. Let’s set the record straight: it’s safe to throw away alkaline batteries like you would any other trash. Since 1996, when Congress enacted new safety regulations, these batteries have been mercury-free and safe for trash disposal.
Lithium-Ion Batteries
This type of battery is commonly found in the digital electronics you use daily, such as your phone or laptop. They are made to be long-lasting, but when these devices become outdated or break, it’s tempting to throw them out in the trash. However, these items should always either be recycled or taken to an electronics retailer for disposal. It’s also always worth it to look online if you are in the market for a new device to see if they’ll take your old device as a credit towards the new purchase.
Car Batteries
Car batteries are considered hazardous waste because of the lead acid they possess. Car batteries should never be thrown in the trash or a dumpster, so to dispose of them, bring them to a recycling center like ABH Services Inc. or an auto parts retailer.
Rechargeable Batteries
Recycling companies should be your destination for rechargeable batteries. Even if these are by the same brands as alkaline batteries, rechargeable batteries contain harmful elements like nickel and are therefore considered environmentally hazardous. Another option is to ask your local electronics retailer if they accept rechargeable battery disposal.
Button Batteries
Button batteries are found in watches and other small battery-operated items. Despite their small size, it is crucial not to throw watch batteries or items containing them in with your curbside trash. Due to hazardous elements that they contain, it’s vital that these batteries be dropped off at a recycling center or otherwise disposed of properly.
If you’ve amassed a collection of dead batteries, contact ABH Services Inc. to assist you with recycling them properly. Our team is well-versed in the proper disposal techniques for different types of batteries and can take care of them appropriately. For more information, contact us at 781-941-2422 and we would be happy to assist you.