Being tethered to a hard wire in this day and age isn’t what consumers want. In fact, most items are battery powered so that mobile applications are inherent to the product. From cellphones to golf carts, batteries are in nearly every device. What if you need to store them? Follow these battery storage tips so that you can get the most out of your purchase. When they’re properly treated, batteries can last for many cycles.
Cooler is Better
Placing batteries in fridge is a common practice among consumers. They aren’t wrong either. A refrigerator can reduce the battery’s discharge rate while keeping them away from children’s curious hands, reports Energizer. Warm conditions, including room temperature, encourages power loss in almost every battery type.
Keep in mind, however, that the best way to store batteries is at 60 degrees Fahrenheit. The fridge may be a bit cooler than the ideal range.
Orient Them in the Right Direction
An issue that’s often overlooked is the battery positioning in its storage location. You want to save space, so you stack or pile the batteries into a tight configuration. Here is where battery storage tips come in handy.
Remember that batteries will conduct power if their positive and negative terminals are in close proximity. Keep them separated during storage. If they do connect at some point, you’ll have discharged batteries on your hands.
Don’t Underestimate the Power of Packaging
If you purchase a spare battery for your car, storing it with its terminal covers is typically the safest choice. Follow this line of reasoning for any other battery during storage.
For batteries in fridge, place them in their original containers or inside a plastic bag. Condensation can’t develop on their housings with this strategy.
Cover 9V batteries with their caps too. The original packaging will always make a good insulator against power loss.
Mixing Isn’t the Best Idea
The best way to store batteries isn’t to toss them all into a collective bin. This strategy might work from an organizational standpoint, but new and old batteries shouldn’t mix.
By allowing them to mingle, the old batteries can leach power from the new ones. Keep them separated by age and preferably in their original containers. Depending on the battery type, they can last for years when stored and used on a regular basis, reports Battery University.
Store Fully Charged
Most batteries should be put away with a full charge. This strategy allows them to lose some power without entirely breaking down. There’s an exception to this rule, however. Nickel and lithium batteries store well with about a 40-percent charge.
Use a multimeter on your batteries before storage. You’ll know that the batteries are at the proper voltage levels before a long rest.
Visit the Battery
Be sure to check on the battery whenever it’s in long-term storage. Ideally, hook a slow-trickle charger to the battery in order to build its charge back up. You may know how to store batteries with professional ease, but they will eventually lose a charge. Providing a safe, power source for battery rejuvenation is a smart way to stretch your dollar.
Operate the Battery Within Its Intended Application
When you’re learning how to store batteries, you might be tempted to use them for any purpose. Giving them some use should be a positive experience for the power source. This perception isn’t right, however, because the battery should always be used for its particular application.
If you have a car battery, don’t hook it up to power a speaker or other device. Place it in a vehicle if you want to give it some juice and good use.
If you find yourself with a power question, contact Northeast Battery with your query. We’ll put our heads together in order to figure out a solution. Batteries seem to make the world spin in today’s technological world. Keep power by your side at all times with our helpful tips.