Make Your Dry Cell Batteries Live and Last Longer

Technology is advancing day by day, and many newer gadgets are being discovered and manufactured every minute. Most of them now come with rechargeable battery options, however still there are some classic gadgets that need dry cells to function. Be it cameras, clocks, portable radios, torchlights or some toys, you would need batteries. These "dry cells" convert chemical energy to electricity. The cheaper ones are the older zinc-carbon batteries. In addition, there is the alkaline variety-costlier but hold their charge longer. Some things that you need to know about batteries to make them live and last longer are:

1. Power problems are usually the reason why appliances go completely dead. So try replacing their batteries first instead of taking them for repair right away. Some appliances can deplete batteries more quickly than you think. A camera, for instance, needs power for motors, LCD screen, flash, the shutter mechanism and more. New batteries may be all it needs to start clicking again.

2. Cleaning an appliance's metal contacts that touch the batteries is another way to restore power, in case your flashlight, Walkman, or toy is not functioning. Oxidized or grimy contacts keep the current from flowing freely. Clean contacts carefully with a cotton-bud dipped in alcohol or cologne. If they are coated with more stubborn grime, try rubbing with fine sandpaper until they shine.

3. Buy batteries from shops where things move fast. Dry cells have a certain shelf life and will run out of power faster if they have been in a shop for more than 18 months. Check the date of packaging while buying, just as you would for processed foods.

4. Use rechargeable cells if a gadget, like a Walkman or FM radio, needs frequent battery change. Rechargeable batteries are costly, but they will pay for themselves with a few months of re-use. They are usually sold in packs of four along with a charger. Keep one pair charged while the others are in use.

5. Remove batteries from an appliance you will not be using for a while. Even if it says, "leak proof". Any battery can leak chemicals when left in an appliance for too long and damage it beyond repair.

You cannot remove the battery of a quartz watch easily, but if you are not using one regularly, switch it off by pulling the crown outwards, the way they are kept in shops.

Safety Tip: Discard all worn-out batteries immediately. Button cells especially should be kept out of reach of small children, because they can be harmful if swallowed.