Rechargeable batteries for cash savings
May 16, 2009 by Jennifer Chait
Filed under Eco Simplicity, energy saving
Today, yet another way that green can save you money and in just two words no less…
Rechargeable batteries.
Gaiam NiMH Batteries & Chargers – shown above
If you haven’t jumped on board with rechargeable batteries, you really should. The benefits are huge, both on a planet and money saving level. According to the Daily Green, “More than 15 billion batteries are thrown away each year.” WOW. Batteries not only NEVER biodegrade but they contain toxic gunk that can leak out of said batteries and contaminate soil and water. Now, if the planet is your only concern, you can recycle batteries – check Earth 911 for a recycling center near you.
However, if part of your game plan is also to save money (I know it is) get some rechargeable batteries.
Do they really save you that much money?:
Yes, they actually do. It may seem overwhelming because start up costs can be high, especially if you own many electronics that require batteries, but in the long run, you will save $. Grinning Planet offers a good rundown of just how rechargeable save you money and also note when they don’t. For example GP says that, “There are some uses where rechargeable batteries simply do not make economic sense… [such as for] low-draw devices like battery-powered wall clocks, smoke detectors, and remote controls, or devices that have long idle times (measured in months), like emergency flashlights.“
Which rechargeable to buy?:
Aim for quality at the get-go. If you’re paying for them, you may as well get decent ones. Check out Gaiam NiMH Batteries & Chargers which are good in my opinion or read, The Best Rechargeable Batteries and Chargers Of 2009.
In addition to using less batteries when replacing with rechargeable batteries, these batteries can then be 100% recycled when they can no longer hold a proper charge. While rechargeable batteries can be charged up to 1,000 times and last between 2-5 years, they will eventually wear out. They can be recycled for free through the nonprofit http://www.call2recycle.org. Type in your zip code to find convenient drop off locations in your neighborhood.