The Complete Guide to How to Charge a Non Rechargeable Regular Battery

The Complete Guide to How to Charge a Non Rechargeable Regular Battery

Introduction

Alkaline non rechargeable batteries are usually not meant to be charged after use. However, under some extreme precaution, we are going to show you how to recharge non rechargeable batteries.

Alkaline batteries (Tripple A and Double A batteries) are very common in many household gadgets from Tv remotes, wireless computer mouse, toys, and AC remotes among others. Sometimes it becomes a burden to keep buying these batteries especially for children’s toys which consume a lot.

One might have to look for alternative methods of recharging these batteries instead of buying new pairs.

Can you Recharge Regular Batteries?

You are probably asking, is it really possible and how do I recharge non rechargeable batteries? Though not recommended, it is possible to recharge non rechargeable batteries using various methods which include the use of a battery charger. However, this can only be done at the owner’s risk.

It is possible to boost some non-rechargeable batteries using such chargers as Maximal Power FC999 Universal Rapid Charger but please note that this is not recommended due to various reasons such as the risk of explosion or fire.

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Detailed Review of the Best Regular Battery Chargers

1. MaximalPower FC999 Universal Rapid Charger

MaximalPower FC999 Universal Rapid Charger is a versatile battery charger designed to recharge various types of batteries, including Alkaline, RAM, Ni-MH, Ni-CD, AA, AAA, C, D, and 9V. It is equipped with four independent charging slots, allowing you to charge multiple batteries simultaneously.

Features:

  • Universal Charging: The MaximalPower FC999 Universal Rapid Charger can charge various types of batteries, making it ideal for households that use different battery-powered devices.
  • Adjustable Charging Dock: The charger’s sliding spring-loaded negative poles can adjust to differently sized batteries, and it includes a switch button that changes modes between Ni-Cd, Ni-MH, and Alkaline/RAM charging.
  • Charge Protection: Built-in protection circuit prevents batteries from overcharging, over-discharging, and over-heating, ensuring a maximized battery charge.
  • Smart Display: The LCD Display shows a clear and fast reading of the battery mode and charging status of working rechargeable batteries while also detecting defective or non-rechargeable batteries.
  • Backed by Company: MaximalPower provides a 1-Year Warranty and Customer Service Support on all of its brand products.
how to recharge non rechargeable button batteries

Pros

  • Versatile: The MaximalPower FC999 Universal Rapid Charger is compatible with various types of batteries, making it useful for households with different battery-powered devices.
  • Fast Charging: The charger has a rapid charging feature that quickly charges your batteries.
  • Protection: The built-in protection circuit protects your batteries from overcharging, over-discharging, and over-heating.
  • Smart Display: The charger’s smart display shows the battery mode and charging status, making it easy to monitor the charging process.

Cons

  • No Batteries Included: The package does not include batteries, and you will have to purchase them separately.
  • Only One Adapter: The charger comes with only one AC power adapter, which means you will have to use it for all four charging slots.
  • Limited Warranty: The charger comes with a 1-Year Warranty, which is relatively short compared to other brands that offer longer warranties.

In conclusion, the MaximalPower FC999 Universal Rapid Charger is an excellent choice for households that use various types of batteries. Its versatility, fast charging, and built-in protection make it a reliable and efficient battery charger. However, the limited warranty and lack of included batteries might be a drawback for some users.

2. Popular Mechanics Battery Recharger

The Popular Mechanics Battery Recharger is a versatile device that can charge both disposable and rechargeable batteries, including alkaline batteries. It is capable of charging 5 different types of batteries: AAA, AA, C, D, 9V. This patented 5-in-1 charger is a great addition to any household or workplace that regularly uses batteries.

Features:

  • Charges disposable or rechargeable batteries: This battery charger can charge not only rechargeable batteries but also alkaline batteries.
  • Automatic shut off for safe charging: The device comes with a built-in automatic shut-off feature to prevent overheating and overcharging of the batteries, making it safe to use.
  • Charges many types of batteries: This battery recharger charges Alkaline, Titanium, RAM, NiCd, and NiMH batteries.
  • Built-in battery tester: The charger also functions as a battery tester, making it easy to determine if your batteries are still usable.

Pros

  • Charges both disposable and rechargeable batteries
  • Capable of charging 5 different types of batteries
  • Built-in automatic shut-off feature ensures safe charging
  • Works as a battery tester as well
  • Versatile and convenient

Cons

  • 9V batteries must be charged separately, unlike AAA, AA, C, and D batteries that can be charged simultaneously
  • The charging times may be longer compared to other dedicated battery chargers

In conclusion, the Popular Mechanics Battery Recharger is a great investment for those who use batteries regularly. It is versatile and convenient, with its ability to charge both disposable and rechargeable batteries and its built-in battery tester. Its automatic shut-off feature also ensures safe charging. However, it may take longer to charge batteries compared to other dedicated battery chargers and 9V batteries must be charged separately.

3. BONAI LCD Smart Battery Charger

The BONAI LCD Smart Battery Charger is a versatile and high-performance battery charger that is designed to work with a wide range of rechargeable NiMH and NiCD batteries, including C, D, AA, AAA, and 9V batteries. Here are some of its features, pros, and cons:

Features:

  • Can charge up to 4 batteries of 1.2V C D AA AAA, or 2 batteries of 9V Ni-MH/Ni-CD rechargeable batteries at the same time.
  • Features an LCD screen that shows the charging and discharging process of NiMH NiCD AA AAA C D batteries. The screen also displays error messages if there are any defective batteries.
  • Offers super rapid charging of NiMH NiCD C D AA AAA batteries in 1A, making charging 5 times faster than normal ones.
  • Features a smart switch and clamshell cover design that protects children, aged people or pets from danger, and prevents interference from the outside environment.
  • Features over-temperature protection, which automatically powers off the charger when the temperature of the battery or the charger exceeds 60℃.

Pros

  • Can charge a wide range of rechargeable NiMH and NiCD batteries, making it a versatile battery charger
  • Offers super rapid charging of NiMH NiCD C D AA AAA batteries in 1A, making charging 5 times faster than normal ones
  • The LCD screen shows the charging and discharging process of NiMH NiCD AA AAA C D batteries, and also displays error messages if there are any defective batteries
  • The smart switch and clamshell cover design provides added safety and protection

Cons

  • Cannot charge 1.5V Lithium Batteries and 3.7v Lithium Batteries
  • The charging time varies depending on the capacity of the battery, which may not be ideal for users who need a quick charging solution
  • Cannot charge non-rechargeable batteries, disposable alkaline batteries, or regular batteries

In conclusion, the BONAI LCD Smart Battery Charger is a versatile and high-performance battery charger that offers super rapid charging and a range of safety features. While it may not be suitable for charging certain types of batteries, it is a great option for those who need a reliable and efficient charger for their rechargeable NiMH and NiCD batteries.

FAQ’s (Frequently Asked Questions)

While some manufacturers do not recommend or support recharging alkaline batteries due to the risks they may pose, they can still be recharged using the available chargers designed specifically for them.

The inside of the dry cell has two materials that want to react but a separation is in place. This separation helps a battery to maintain its charge because the circuit is open when the battery is not in use.When connected electrically, when inserted in a device, one metal terminal is connected to the other which creates a closed circuit and a chemical reaction takes place which generates electricity.Once the batteries are drained of charge, it usually takes some time before they react. This is because they are made from solid, dry materials. However, when the drained batteries are left for a short while after draining, they usually tend to come back to life.This is because the electrons inside have had time to move around and adjust their positions.

Non-rechargeable batteries have four main components: two cations (atoms or elements with a positive charge) and two anions (atoms or elements with a negative charge). These ions can change into each other with the addition or removal of charge.On the plus end of the battery, one of the anions is bonded to one of the cations while the other pair of the cation and anion are bonded on the negative terminal. However, the cations and anions are not usually bonded to each other and the anion on the positive terminal tends to bond more strongly to the cation on the negative terminal and vice versa.This results in a flow of current when a conductor is connected on both ends of the battery. The current flow is to change the anions into a bond they would strongly bond and the same applies for the cations.When all the ions have transformed to their most strongly-bonding conformations, the battery stops transmitting any more current and is considered to have depleted charge.Alkaline batteries are not suitable for applications that require a lot of charge and very fast such as digital cameras. Lithium or NiMH batteries are usually recommended for such applications.Please note you accept to recharge non rechargeable batteries only at YOUR OWN RISK. Do not leave the batteries unattended due to the risk of overheating. Do not attempt with any equipment you do not want to lose.

Attempting to recharge non-rechargeable batteries increases the risk of leakage and rupture significantly. Charging must be done in chargers that have been specifically approved for each product type, which may differ depending on the brand and model of both the battery and the charger.

When you overcharge a non-rechargeable battery, the battery will explode and spray out the electrolyte inside it. It will also release a very harmful gas. Even the charger could get damaged. The reason behind this is that every battery is constructed differently.

Maximal Power FC999 Universal Rapid Charger: This one-of-a-kind battery charger can charge both rechargeable and disposable batteries. This patented 5-in-1 charger can charge AAA, AA, C, 9-Volt, or D batteries. Please keep in mind that while AAA, AA, C, and D batteries can be charged at the same time, 9-Volt batteries must be charged separately.

There is no need to replace your existing charger(s) for a lead acid battery and instead upgrade to lithium battery chargers. A lead acid charger will suffice.

If no negative signs are detected, continue charging the batteries for approximately 1 hour. Keep in mind that batteries should never be left unattended.

Because of the short life time and the cost of continuous replacement, this product is not suitable for high drain applications. Single-use, disposable primary batteries are an extremely inefficient energy source in terms of overall energy efficiency because they produce only about 2% of the power used in their manufacture.

In a nutshell, no. While cold environments help maintain battery life, batteries should not be stored in refrigerators or freezers. Condensation will form on the batteries due to the moist environment. This will result in rust or other damage.

True to their names, non-rechargeable batteries are not meant to be recharged while rechargeable batteries can be recharged multiple times.

Usually expensive to buy Not readily available in most stores apart from specific outlets

Disadvantages of Non-rechargeable Batteries

  • Not environmentally friendly
  • Expensive in the long run

Advantages of Non-rechargeable Batteries

  • They are cheaper to buy in the short run
  • They are suitable for off grid use
  • Readily available in various stores

Advantages of Rechargeable Batteries

  • Usually more powerful and suitable for high drain gadgets
  • Tends to last longer
  • Environmentally friendly
  • Saves time as replacement is not required regularly

Procedure of Recharging a Non-Rechargeable Battery (AA or AAA) with a Charger

  1. Place the alkaline (non -rechargeable) batteries inside the charger’s compartments.
  2. Ensure you observe the positive and negative terminals to avoid short circuiting the batteries.
  3. Plug in the charger into the wall outlet.
  4. Switch on the socket. A red light on the charger shows the batteries are charging.
  5. Keep an eye on the batteries and charger.
  6. Keep touching the non-rechargeable batteries for any signs of overheating or swelling. In case of any of these signs, switch off the socket immediately, unplug the charger, remove the batteries form the charger’s compartment, and place them in a fireproof zipper bag.
  7. If no bad signs are observed, continue charging the batteries for about 1 hour (Remember this is at your own risk and the batteries should never be left unattended).
  8. After 1 hour, switch of the power outlet and unplug the charger.
  9. Remove the batteries from the charger’s compartments and test their voltage or plug them into a device (i.e., Tv Remote, or Toy or Mouse) to check if they have some charge.
  10. If the device powers up and runs, the batteries have been recharged successfully. Some devices, e.g., a WisFox 2.4G Wireless Mouse, shows the battery percentage on the computers and thus one can tell in the battery did charge.
  11. Please note that the recharge for most non – rechargeable batteries does not last for long. It can last from anywhere between a few hours to several days and thus one ought to consider acquiring new batteries. Recharging the batteries again poses a greater risk of overheating andexploding.

That is basically how to recharge batteries at home using a typical battery charger.

But someone might ask, that is for AA and AAA batteries, what about how to recharge non rechargeable button batteries?

It is possible to recharge and boost a button battery using a 9V battery. This becomes very important especially during an emergency when your remote cannot work and the type of button battery is not available in the local store.

Precautions For How To Charge Non Rechargeable Batteries

  • Do not leave the batteries unattended when recharging
  • Monitor the batteries for overheating. If you notice the batteries are overheating when charging terminate the process before any more damage
  • Charge the batteries in an open area away from flammable materials to reduce the risk of fire. Sometimes batteries may explode and result into a fire
  • Consider acquiring a fireproof zipper bag to partially insert the battery charger and batteries in case of an explosion
  • Have a FIRE EXTINGUISHER ready. In case there is a fire breakout, this will come in handy.
  • Medical supplies. It is good to have such supplies as antiseptic cream and Savlon plasters in case one burns their skin during the process.

Procedure of How to Recharge Regular Batteries

  1. Place the positive side of the button cell on the positive terminal of the 9V battery.
  2. Let the negative side of the button cell to touch the negative terminal of the 9V battery.
  3. Alternatively, one can use a wire to connect one of the respective terminals of the button cell.
  4. Let the battery in that position for about 30 seconds to 1 minute
  5. Place the button in the gadget and test

Science of Regular Batteries

Non-rechargeable batteries are also known as primary or single-use batteries and are some of the most commonly used batteries in the world. They generate an electric current (power) from an irreversible chemical reaction.

They are preferred in situations where a low amount of power is required but for a long time e.g. in a Tv remote. The various types of non-rechargeable batteries include:

  • Alkaline Batteries
  • Carbon Zinc Batteries
  • Mercury Batteries
  • Lithium Batteries (NB: not Lithium Ion)
  • Silver Oxide Batteries
  • Zinc Air Batteries

Most of the batteries above come in standard sizes which are: AAA, AA, C-cell, D-Cell, and 9V (volts).

The common and old school AAA and AA alkaline batteries are usually referred to as dry cells because they do not contain any liquid. The lack of a liquid also means that it is not easy for things to go wrong.

Closing Remarks

So can you recharge regular batteries? Despite the fact that regular batteries are not meant to be recharged, it is evident (from experiments) that they can be recharged and used for a period of time especially during emergencies.

There exist various types of rechargeable batteries from Alkaline Batteries, Carbon Zinc Batteries, and Mercury Batteries among others. These come in specific sizes which include: AAA, AA, C-cell, D-Cell, and 9V (volts). The type of charger selected depends in the size of the battery and design.

The above procedure is basically how to recharge a non rechargeable battery. One has to take all the necessary precautions when recharging to avoid accidents.

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