Rechargeable Batteries: Are They Worth It? It’s Tricky.

Rechargeable batteries are overall much better for the environment compared to disposable batteries. In some cases, they are also much more cost-effective. Follow this guide to find out whether rechargeable batteries are worth it for you or not.

What are Rechargeable Batteries and Why Should You Buy Them?

Every year, billions of used, disposable batteries are thrown to landfill in the US. These batteries contain toxic chemicals and metals that can leak hazardous and corrosive materials into the soil, water, and air we breathe. Concerns for the health of the planet as well as for humans have led many companies to turn to rechargeable batteries as a more environmentally-conscious way to charge our electronics. 

Rechargeable batteries look like your standard batteries but only need replacing every 2-5 years. As a result, they require far less packaging and have a much better performance than your average disposable battery. After use, these batteries can be recharged using a charger or an adaptor (depending on which type you buy). In terms of the environment and our own health, rechargeable batteries are very much worth it.

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Disposable vs Rechargeable Batteries: What’s The Difference?

Disposable batteries are your standard batteries. They are costly to replace and need to be switched out often. They also produce more contamination and require more packaging, and so have a damaging environmental impact. 

Overall, rechargeable batteries are far better for the environment compared to disposable batteries. Rechargeable batteries are a one-time purchase product and hold their charge for a much more extended period of time than their disposable counterparts. Their reduced impact on the environment in terms of pollution from production, air pollution and water contamination are also major positive factors. They are also far more reliable compared to disposable batteries and pay for themselves after 5-6 recharges. Over time, therefore, rechargeable batteries are well worth it for your wallet and the planet. 

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Are Rechargeable Batteries Worth It?

Rechargeable batteries have much better battery life and performance overall. They are more expensive than disposable batteries, but the amount of money you will save from not having to replace them constantly means your money will be well spent. Taking this into account and depending on what electronic appliances you intend to use them for, you can determine whether it is worth it to buy rechargeable batteries for your particular situation. 

Rechargeable batteries are excellent for high-drain electronic appliances such as digital cameras, CD players, GPS receivers, flash units, and kids’ toys. Buying rechargeable batteries for these electronics saves you a lot of money and time in the long run. 

However, for low-drain appliances, such as smoke detectors, wall clocks, remote controls, radios, and emergency flashlights, disposable batteries are better, as it would take them years to run out of charge. In this case, you would save more money purchasing disposable batteries than you would with rechargeable batteries. 

Remember: Whether rechargeable or disposable, remember to dispose of your batteries properly when it comes time to throw them away!

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Tags: Consumerism Energy Guide Waste