Quick Tips On Maximizing Battery Performance

Okay, so you’ve opened your Christmas presents and chances are you received at least one gadget (that uses a battery). Remember that batteries don’t last forever. They lose capacity over time, but there are a few steps you can take to help prevent them from degrading as fast as they could if they are mistreated.

• Charge batteries properly – If your battery is nickel-based, keep in mind that they require conditioning so make sure you completely charge and discharge it a few times before initial use. Failure to properly condition nickel batteries will result in the formation of crystals, which can lead to batteries that will not hold a charge. Lithium-ion and lithium-polymer typically arrive in a partially charged state, so just make sure you fully charge them before use, otherwise they do not need to be conditioned.

• Store batteries correctly – It’s best to use your batteries regularly, but if you must store them, make sure your nickel batteries are at least 50% discharged. As for the lithiums, just make sure you charge them when you’re ready to use them again.

• Battery disposal – when the end of your battery life arrives, it’s important that you practice proper disposal since made out of hazardous material. Some stores offer collection points, but check the Rechargeable Battery Recycling Corporation’s home page (www.rbrc.org) to find a drop-off location.