How To Recycle Various Types Of Batteries
Posted on: 13 September 2019
You probably use a lot of batteries in your home. Flashlights, toys, phones, cars, and electronic equipment use various types of batteries. You might wonder if it's safe to throw old batteries in the trash and send them to the dump. Some batteries are safe to throw out while others should be recycled. Here's an overview of battery recycling.
Alkaline Batteries
Alkaline batteries don't have dangerous metals in them any longer, so they can be thrown in your trash if your city allows it. There are two reasons to recycle batteries. One is because the batteries contain heavy metals that can contaminate the soil and groundwater, and another reason is because the batteries contain valuable metals that can be removed and recycled. Alkaline batteries don't have valuable or dangerous metals, so recycling them is usually a low priority. However, you may use these batteries the most and you may prefer to keep them out of the landfill.
If you want to recycle alkaline batteries, call your local office supply stores and ask if they accept old alkaline batteries. Some places collect them and mail them to a recycling center if your city doesn't recycle the batteries. You can mail alkaline batteries in yourself, but you have to buy a box and pay to send it in, so finding a drop-off center is more convenient.
Rechargeable Batteries
One way to reduce the amount of batteries you have to throw out is by using rechargeable ones. However, these go bad eventually too. These batteries contain valuable metals, so they can usually be recycled easily. Your city may have a drop-off location or you might take them to an office supply store or other more convenient place. This includes all types of rechargeable batteries such as computer batteries, flashlight batteries, and batteries used in toys.
Car Batteries
Large batteries used in cars and other types of large equipment are recycled as well. The place where you buy your new battery will usually accept your old battery and send it in for recycling. However, even if you don't buy a car battery from an auto supply store, they may accept drop-off batteries for recycling. Your city may also have a designated place for dropping off car batteries. You may not be allowed to take batteries to a satellite recycling center or put them in your curbside recycling bin. Call your city for specific instructions on recycling batteries so you get rid of them safely and allow their materials to be reused.
For more help, contact a battery recycling service in your area.
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