How To Dispose Of Flashlight Batteries: A Safety Guide
Almost every household owns a flashlight. Flashlights are handy and compact. They are mostly used to look for things in the dark or in moving around outdoors during nighttime. Batteries power flashlights, and these batteries have to be changed once used-up. Batteries are very hazardous to the environment because they contain heavy metals and acids that are toxic. Thus, it is our responsibility to dispose of them properly. That is why, in this article, we will discuss how to dispose of flashlight batteries properly. Let’s get started!
Types Of Batteries For Flashlights
Before we learn about how to dispose of flashlight batteries, we must know about the different types of batteries for flashlights. Flashlights come in different shapes and sizes, and disposable batteries power most of them. These batteries come in various dimensions. Some batteries are also more hazardous than others. Read along to know more about these batteries.
- Button cells. A watch battery or button cell is a small circular battery that is almost flat in design. It measures typically around 5 to 25 mm in diameter and 1 to 6 mm high. This type of battery used in small keychain flashlights that are compact and lightweight.
- Carbon Zinc battery. The carbon-zinc battery uses a chemical reaction for producing electrical power. It delivers a powerful 1.5 bolts of direct current. They were the first commercial dry batteries sold in the market. It made portable flashlights possible because the batteries could function in any orientation.
- Alkaline battery. The alkaline battery has pretty much the exact compositions of the carbon-zinc battery. You can say it is an upgraded version of a carbon-zinc battery because it can contain more energy, and it has a longer shelf life. The alkaline battery provides the same voltage as the carbon-zinc battery. Serious flashlight owners prefer to use these types of batteries because of their durability and functionality compared to its predecessor. Longer shelf life for batteries is essential for anyone who stores batteries for times like emergencies or a long-term crisis.
- Rechargeable battery. The rechargeable battery can be recharged many times, unlike the alkaline or carbon zinc. It costs relatively less than the others. They are also less harmful to the environment than the other batteries. However, they drain up quickly and require a source of electricity to charge up.
- Lithium-ion battery. The lithium-ion battery is a type of rechargeable battery. This is what we see in most of our devices, like smartphones and speakers. Lithium-ion batteries have a higher discharge and can last longer when used and treated correctly. However, lithium-ion batteries can be dangerous. Tt contains a flammable electrolyte that can start a fire when it overheats or malfunctions.
How To Dispose Of Flashlight Batteries Properly
As we learned in the previous segment, flashlight batteries come in different dimensions and contents. So it is best that we can identify one from the other. This is crucial in knowing how to dispose of flashlight batteries properly, especially when you are outdoors. Let’s get started!
- Alkaline batteries and Zinc ion batteries. These types of batteries have an exemption. Alkaline and zinc ion batteries manufactured since 1996 are made of non-hazardous material, meaning you can throw it straight to the trash after using. Some even use it for landfilling, saying it won’t hurt the environment when tossed in nature. There are some states and municipalities that still advise and recommend these batteries treated as hazardous waste. So it is best to check with your state rules first or to collect and drop off theses batteries to a designated facility.
- Rechargeable batteries. These batteries contain nickel and cadmium, which can be very hazardous to one’s health and the environment. These types of batteries must be disposed of in hazardous waste collection sites, recycling facilities, or your electrical retailer in the area.
- Lithium-ion batteries. The lithium-ion battery should be disposed of in hazardous waste facilities or in recycling facilities. It can also be donated to your local electrical retailer. Some companies accept lithium-ion batteries so they can refurbish them and use them in other gadgets.
Summing Up
A flashlight is a crucial tool for someone who likes to prepare for emergencies and times of crisis. A flashlight is made so one can see in the dark. It can also come in handy as a weapon when faced with danger. Every household should have a flashlight, and it is our responsibility to dispose of flashlight batteries accordingly. Batteries are very hazardous to the environment. It can poison water sources and spew out fumes than can harm humans. Learning how to dispose of flashlight batteries should be basic knowledge for any flashlight owner.
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