Super Eco

Photo credit: asolario, SXC

How many batteries are in your home? Tens, hundreds maybe? I'm counting the devices I own that have batteries in them. Hang on a sec. Almost done. Okay.  I'm sure I'm way under the national average, because I am one person and I downsized considerably recently, but still I get a number totaling somewhere in the vicinity of 15 different devices that all contain batteries. And you could easily have more.

We've already talked about what to do with old, dead batteries, but what about making them last longer to begin with? Here are some simple things we can do:

1. If you don't use it, take the batteries out. Anything you don't use regularly, from battery-driven seasonal decorations to that radio you keep just to take camping, is fair game to be plundered of its batteries. Take them out, label them, and store them.

2. Keep them cool. Way cool. Like in-the-fridge cool. This may not help your alkaline batteries much unless you live in an especially warm climate, but it's great for storing NiMH batteries, which retain up to 90% of the original charge when stored in a cool place.

3. Choose batteries wisely. You want the right battery for the job. Got an alkaline battery-sucking device like a digital camera? Then use batteries designed especially for high-drain applications. Or go rechargeable (you already thought of that.)

4. Recharge smart. Rechargeable alkalines last longer if you charge them often, despite what you've heard to the contrary.

5. Special info for cell phone batteries. Keep your battery and phone cool (avoid leaving it in hot cars); charge correctly; clean your phone's contacts from time to time.