Single-Use Batteries
Single-use batteries are not reusable when they lose their charge. They are found in remote controls, car keyless entry remotes, watches, pacemakers, hearing aids, toys, memory backup fire alarm devises and more. Single-use alkaline batteries are composed primarily of common metals—steel, zinc, and manganese—and do not pose a health or environmental risk during normal use or disposal. Due to concerns about mercury in the municipal solid waste stream, the added mercury has been eliminated from alkaline battery manufacturing.
Alkaline batteries can be safely disposed of with normal household waste. Never dispose of batteries in fire because they could explode. It is important not to dispose of large numbers of alkaline batteries in a group. Used batteries are often not completely dead. Grouping used batteries together can bring these live batteries into contact with one another, creating safety risks. (From http://www.Duracell.com)
Tape Before Discarding/Recycling
Used single-use batteries can be safely discarded in the trash when they are taken out of a device to put in new batteries. Before disposing of the battery, tape the positive (+) terminal of each battery with clear packing tape, electrical tape, or duct tape. Do not cover the brand name or chemistry of the battery with tape if recycling. The taped battery can then be stored in a plastic bucket until taken to a recycler or placed in the household trash for disposal.
Rechargeable Batteries
Rechargeable batteries are found in cordless power tools, cordless phones, cellphones, cameras, two-way radios, biomedical equipment, laptops, and more. These batteries include Nickel Cadmium (Ni-Cd), Lithium Ion (Li-ion), Small Sealed Lead Acid (SSLA/Pb); Nickel Metal Hydride (Ni-MH), Nickel Zinc (Ni-ZN). Never throw Li-Ion batteries in the trash. See Region D’s HHW calendar for upcoming collection opportunities.
EPA recommendation: Find a location to recycle Li-ion batteries and products that contain Li-ion batteries; do not put them in the trash or municipal recycling bins. If the Li-ion battery becomes damaged, contact the battery or device manufacturer for specific handling information. Even used batteries can have enough energy to injure or start fires. Not all batteries are removable or serviceable by the user. Heed battery and product markings regarding safety and use.
How to Recycle Batteries
- Bag or tape your batteries to protect the terminals.
- Visit www.call2recycle.org/locator to find a drop-off location near you! Drop-offs only accept batteries up to 11 pounds.
- Drop off your batteries at participating location or request at-home recycling box
Medium and Large-Scale Li-ion Battery Disposal
EPA recommendation: Contact the manufacturer, automobile dealer or company that installed the Li-ion battery for management options; do not put it in the trash or municipal recycling bins.
Because of the size and complexity of these battery systems, medium and large-scale Li-ion batteries may not be able to be removed by the consumer. Refer to the manufacturer’s instructions and heed warnings and safety instructions.
- Automobile: Contact the automobile dealer, shop or salvage yard where the battery was purchased.
- Energy Storage: Contact the energy storage equipment manufacturer or company that installed the battery.