Save money with rechargeable batteries
Choosing rechargeable batteries over disposables provides several benefits, from reduced expenses to reduced impact on the ecology. Although there were several disadvantages initially, rechargeable batteries are much improved so that the benefits seem to outweigh the drawbacks. According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), customer demand for rechargeable batteries is increasing and manufacturers are producing more of this type of battery than disposable ones. NiCd (Nickel Cadmium) and NiMH (Nickel Metal Hydride) are the most common rechargeable batteries in standard size.
Savings
Rechargeable batteries can be charged and re-used up to 1,000 times. The cost of purchasing the charger and batteries may seem high compared to the low cost of disposable batteries but the savings over time exceeds the initial expense. Rechargeable batteries can last up to three years.
Efficiency
Rechargeable batteries perform better than disposable batteries in equipment considered highly draining, such as cameras and audio headphone players. A fully charged rechargeable battery can last up to five times longer than a disposable battery when used in this type of equipment.
Environment
Rechargeable batteries are made of materials that are much safer for the environment than the contents of disposable batteries. According to the EPA, some disposable batteries contain toxic chemicals, such as mercury and cadmium. Using rechargeable batteries reduces the number of disposable batteries that end up in landfill sites.
Discharge
Unlike disposable batteries, rechargeable batteries are self-discharging. This means that they are constantly losing charge, even when they are not in use.
Voltage
At 1.5 volts, disposable batteries have a higher voltage than rechargeable batteries. Equipment requiring more power than a rechargeable battery's 1.2 volts may not power on or may shut down.
Memory
Some rechargeable batteries, like the NiCd, begin to suffer from a memory effect after they have been charged and discharged several times. The memory effect refers to batteries that are losing their charge faster due to a buildup of cadmium crystals inside. The buildup will occur if the battery is not fully discharged before you attempt to recharge it.
Convenience
Replacing disposable batteries involves a trip to the store but rechargeable batteries eliminate this inconvenience. When these batteries run down, you can plug it into the charger and have fresh batteries within a couple of hours.
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