an expiration date on the package. If expired safely take them to a place that recycles batteries and not just trash them. IMHO

Last edited Sun Jun 1, 2025, 07:57 AM - Edit history (2)

Shelf life varies, based on multiple factors, but primarily the chemistry.:

Alkaline : about 5-7 years
Lithium (non-rechargeable): about 10-15 years
Zinc-carbon: about 2-3 years
Silver oxide: about 3-5 years

https://batteriesinc.net/shelf-life-of-various-battery-types/

On edit:

As Claudette mentioned above, dispose of them properly. In some places, disposal of some types of batteries in regular trash is against the law.

EPA recommendations:

https://www.epa.gov/recycle/used-household-batteries

Used Household Batteries

Just drop them in the bin.

I run on Nimh rechargeables but for longevity they require you get the charging time correct. AAA 900mah @5.25 hours. AA 3000mah @17.5 hours. That larger size and higher capacity really add to the recharge time. AI calculated those times.

I also recharge batteries that are not rechargeable. I have some AAA's in a flashlight that goes dim. I recharge it for 30 minutes. Lasts for months.

Dumb question. Do you use a rechargeable battery charger?

And I think when AI calculated I had to give the strength of the charger.

And charging non-rechargeable batteries has some risks. Charged too long and they can leak acid. I've had no problems with the 30 minutes so far.

A simple battery tester for AAA, AA, 9-volt, and D-cell batteries like the one below for about $10.

?v=1733966568

I could keep that at my little home office desk. That is cool.