Frequently Asked Questions

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Duracell

All Questions And Answers

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Why are Duracell Hearing Aid batteries different from other Hearing Aid batteries?

Duracell Hearing Aid batteries are easy to use, come in a handy plastic box and have an extra long tab for easy insertion into the device.
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Why choosing Duracell Rechargeable batteries?

Duracell Rechargeable batteries combine high capacity with the unique Duralock technology, keeping your batteries charged for longer, charge after charge. They are ideal for mid to high-drain devices.
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How many times can I charge my Duracell rechargeable batteries?

Duracell Rechargeable batteries can be re-charged hundreds of times, they’re great value.
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Should Duracell Rechargeable batteries be fully discharged before re-charging?

Duracell Rechargeable batteries do not suffer from the so-called memory effect so there is no issue in charging them even when they are not fully discharged.
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DO YOU HAVE ANY CONTESTS, OFFERS OR SWEEPSTAKES?

All our promotions are live on this site, on our Promotions page. Check back often for updates.
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IS THE BUNNY AVAILABLE FOR SALE?

Unfortunately the Duracell Bunny is not available for sale.
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HOW WAS THE DURACELL BUNNY CONCEIVED?

It began in 1973, when breakthrough advertising was developed to communicate that Duracell alkaline batteries lasted much longer than ordinary and inexpensive zinc carbon batteries. A small, pink, fluffy bunny was created who, powered by Duracell batteries, was able to outlast all others in an array of colourful challenges.
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WHAT IS THE ANODE, CATHODE AND ELECTROLYTE?

These are the basic components of a battery and like other alkaline batteries are: The anode is the negative electrode and is made of zinc. The cathode is the positive electrode and is made of manganese dioxide. The electrolyte is an aqueous solution that allows transport of ions between the electrodes and is made of potassium hydroxide.
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Can I light a battery on fire?

NEVER light or dispose of batteries in a fire—they may explode, rupture, and cause safety risks.
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GOOD HOUSEKEEPING UK HAS BEEN QUOTED AS SAYING THAT YOU SHOULDN’T USE RECHARGABLES IN SMOKE ALARMS. IS THIS CORRECT?

Good Housekeeping rationale: “when rechargeable batteries run out of power, they do so very quickly, whereas disposable alkaline batteries tend to ‘die’ slowly. This means you won’t get the warning beeps that tell you when the battery in your smoke alarm needs changing if you use rechargeables.” Due to its safety nature, the smoke alarm is not an ideal device for standard rechargeable batteries. Indeed standard rechargeable batteries discharge with time, and this means that for essential safety devices such as a smoke alarm, it is not recommended. We also need to remember that even if disposable batteries are used in smoke alarms, it is highly recommended to change the battery a minimum of once a year. Still can’t find what you’re looking for? Contact us.
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IS IT OK TO USE RECHARGEABLE BATTERIES IN ANY DEVICE?

You can use round cell rechargeable in absolutely any device where you would normally use an alkaline battery, unless stated otherwise by the device manufacturer. There are no interference implications using rechargeable battery brands that are different to the device brand. (Please note that this is referring to round cell rechargeables, the lithium different shaped batteries are often developed by the manufacturer specifically to fit a certain cavity size, and therefore only the brand battery might work).
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IS THERE A SAFETY CONCERN ABOUT USING RECHARGEABLES IN SOME TOYS?

There are no safety issues with rechargeable batteries in toys.
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WHAT ABOUT GADGETS YOU DON’T OFTEN USE? WILL THE BATTERY DRAIN ITSELF IF THE GADGETS ARE UNUSED FOR A WHILE?

Standard rechargeable batteries do discharge overtime and are therefore not ideal for devices not used often or low-drain equipment.
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WHICH DEVICES SHOULDN’T YOU USE RECHARGEABLE BATTERIES IN?

You can use rechargeable batteries in absolutely any device where you would normally use an alkaline battery, unless stated otherwise by the device manufacturer. There are no interference implications using rechargeable battery brands that are different to the device brand.
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IS IT SAFE TO LEAVE THE CELLS IN THE CHARGER OVERNIGHT?

Yes, due to Duracell’s built-in safety features, it is safe to leave the cells in the charger overnight. Duracell does recommend that you un-plug the charger after use.
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DO DURACELL CHARGERS SHUT OFF WHEN CHARGING IS COMPLETE?

Duracell chargers will switch to a trickle charge when the normal charge is complete. Duracell recommends you unplug your charger when it is not in use.
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Can I charge base NIMH cells in my Duracell charger?

Yes. All NiMH batteries can be charged in Duracell chargers. Recognize that higher mAh capacity cells require longer charge times to reach full capacity.
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WILL I NEED A VOLTAGE CONVERTER FOR MY DURACELL CHARGER WHEN TRAVELLING OVERSEAS?

A plug adaptor will be required, but not a voltage converter. (The voltage range on Duracell chargers is 100 – 240 volts, 50/60Hz).
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WHY DO CHARGERS LIST A “RANGE” OF TIME WHEN EXPLAINING THEIR CHARGE TIME?

When a charger lists a range of charge time, it refers to the time it takes to charge a lower mAh cell. For example, a AAA cell will typically have a lower mAh capacity rating than a AA cell and will therefore require less time to charge.
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WHAT SHOULD I DO IF MY DURACELL CHARGER DOES NOT SEEM TO BE CHARGING?

We suggest trying the following: Unplug the charger from the wall between each use b. Check that the batteries are positioned correctly in the correct slots c. Ensure you are attempting to charge Duracell NiMH rechargeable batteries
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HOW MANY TIMES CAN I CHARGE MY DURACELL NIMH BATTERIES?

Duracell NiMH batteries can be re-charged hundreds of times they’re great value!
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SHOULD I CHARGE DURACELL STAYCHARGED NIMH CELLS BEFORE I USE THEM?

It is not necessary to charge Duracell Staycharged NiMH cells before use because they retain up to 75% of their capacity after one year in storage. However, it is necessary to charge Duracell Base NiMH cells before their initial use as they lose 1% to 2% of their capacity per day while in storage.
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SHOULD DURACELL NIMH CELLS BE FULLY DISCHARGED BEFORE RE-CHARGING?

Duracell NiMH cells do not suffer from the so-called memory effect and it is OK to charge them even when they are not fully discharged. It is NiCad formulated cells that are subject to a memory effect and Duracell does not offer NiCad cells.
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Can Duracell NIMH rechargeable cells be used in my device?

Yes. As long as it is the right size, you can use Duracell NiMH cells in any device, however Duracell recommends consulting your device user manual for compatibility. NiMH cells are best suited to high-drain devices – in other words, devices such as digital cameras, which usually drain alkaline batteries very quickly.
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Can I charge NON-NIMH cells (alkaline, zinc, heavy duty, nicad, etc.) in my Duracell charger?

No. You can only charge NiMH batteries in a Duracell charger.
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HOW LONG WILL DURACELL STAYCHARGED BATTERIES STAY CHARGED?

They will retain up to 75% of their capacity after one year in storage.
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CAN NEW DURACELL CHARGERS CHARGE OTHER NIMH CELLS?

Yes, they can charge any NiMH cells.
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Can Duracell staycharged NIMH cells be charged in any NIMH battery charger?

Yes, in any NiMH charger, but Duracell chargers are recommended because they are among the safest in the industry.
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WHICH DURACELL BATTERIES ARE BEST FOR MY EVERYDAY DEVICES E.G. REMOTE CONTROL, DIGITAL CAMERA, MP3 PLAYER AND MOTORISED TOYS?

Duracell Ultra Power is the best and most powerful alkaline battery from Duracell across all devices.
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WHICH IS THE BEST ALKALINE BATTERY FOR PERFORMANCE IN THE PORTFOLIO?

Duracell Ultra is the Most Powerful Duracell Alkaline battery ever across all devices
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Where can I buy Duracell products?

Right here on Duracell.com.au. On every product’s detail page you can find the e-retailers that carry the product and whether it is in stock or not. You should also be able to find many of our products in common stores like drug stores, markets, department stores, warehouse stores, and office supply stores, or as mass merchandise.
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What is your response to recent third-party battery comparison testing against other brands?

Duracell is the #1 brand trusted by consumers all over the world. Battery performance is not a one-dimensional measurement; several parameters that affect performance data are: discharge characteristics, voltage, energy density, effect of discharge load and temperature as well as shelf life. Technical bulletins providing detailed information for each battery type are available in the Technical Library. Testing our designs in both a laboratory environment (following IEC methodologies) along with real life usage studies ensures our innovations continually delight our consumer.
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Should I store my batteries in the refrigerator or freezer?

We recommend storing batteries at room temperature in a dry environment. Extreme heat or cold reduces battery performance. You’ll want to avoid putting battery-powered devices in very warm places. In addition, refrigeration is not necessary or recommended.
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Should I remove batteries from my device if I’m not going to be using it for a while?

Yes. Remove batteries from a device when it is not expected to be in use for several months.
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How do I clean up after a battery leak?

Follow these tips to clean up after a battery has leaked: Work in a well-ventilated area. Wear household gloves and glasses. Using a toothbrush or cotton swab, remove battery leakage from the electrical contacts. Make sure the electronic device is completely dry before trying a new battery. To avoid future problems, adopt the following practices: Do not mix and match different battery brands in the same device. Remove batteries from devices that are being stored. To clean any leakage of the following battery types, Alkaline, NiCAD and NiMH batteries, use either one tablespoon of boric acid in one gallon of water or a mixture of equal amounts of diluted vinegar or lemon juice with water (50/50 ratio).
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How do Duracell batteries affect the environment?

In 1993, we voluntarily eliminated added mercury from our batteries. “Our alkaline batteries are composed of primarily common materials—steel, zinc, and manganese—and do not pose a health or environmental risk in normal use or disposal. What’s more, we are going green by eliminating PVC clamshells and replacing them with high-fiber content cards and RPET (Recycled PET) blisters. This is a complete, sustainable packaging solution, one of the best PVC alternatives available today. As the world’s leading manufacturer of high-performance alkaline batteries, we recognize our responsibility to help protect the environment. We’re committed to designing, manufacturing, and distributing batteries in a way that minimizes impact to the environment. We also participate in the Call2Recycle program to ensure the safe and proper recycling or disposing of batteries.”
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Can I use batteries underwater or in other vacuum conditions?

No, Duracell batteries are not designed to be used underwater or in vacuum conditions. The cells are designed to be used under normal atmospheric conditions and in fairly constant temperatures (approximately 21 °C/70 °F).
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Are batteries affected by temperature?

We recommend storing batteries at room temperature in a dry environment. Extreme heat or cold reduces battery performance. You’ll want to avoid putting battery-powered devices in very warm places. In addition, refrigeration is not necessary or recommended.
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Which way does the + and – go?

Carefully follow instructions on your equipment regarding proper insertion of batteries, ensuring that the + (plus) and – (minus) terminals are aligned correctly. CAUTION: Some equipment using three or more batteries may appear to work properly even if one battery is inserted incorrectly; such usage may lead to battery leakage or rupture that could result in equipment damage.
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There are Chinese letters on my batteries. What does it mean?

The characters indicate that the batteries are mercury-free.
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Should I light a battery on fire?

NEVER light or dispose of batteries in a fire—they may explode, rupture, and cause safety risks.
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My child likes to play with batteries. Is this ok?

Young children should not play with batteries. Batteries are made to power devices, not to be played with individually. Remember that while batteries are popular, commonplace devices, they generate portable power by means of potent chemical reactions. Batteries should never be disassembled, abused, mishandled, or treated as toys. Although most batteries contain chemicals that won’t harm exposed skin, they should still be treated as any chemical would. Always take precautions when handling exposed battery chemicals. Battery chemicals shouldn’t be placed near the eyes or ingested. Contact a physician immediately if this should occur. To assure safety, use of batteries by children should be closely monitored by a responsible adult.
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My battery got wet and now there is a white powdery substance on it. What do I do?

In the unlikely event that a battery is wet or covered with a white powdery substance, limit your handling of the battery. Only handle the battery as required for proper removal and disposal and immediately wash any exposed body surfaces and clothing with soap and water. If contact with the eyes occurs, immediately flush the eyes with running water for at least 15 minutes and then seek immediate medical assistance.
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Is it normal for Duracell NiMH rechargeable batteries to become warm while charging?

Yes, it is normal for both the cells and charger to become warm while charging.
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How should I handle batteries that leaked in a device?

Although most batteries contain chemicals that won’t harm exposed skin, they should still be treated as any chemical would. Always take precautions when handling exposed battery chemicals. Battery chemicals shouldn’t be placed near the eyes or ingested. Contact a physician immediately if this should occur.
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Do your batteries contain mercury?

No, all versions of Duracell batteries are mercury-free. We are proud to have voluntarily stopped using mercury in our general purpose batteries (AAA, AA, C, D, and 9V sizes) in 1993. Our alkaline batteries are made mainly from common metals steel, zinc and manganese and do not pose a risk to health or the environment if they are used and disposed of appropriately. All hearing-aid batteries have been mercury-free since January 2011, in line with The Mercury-Containing and Rechargeable Battery Act.
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Can I take a battery apart?

No. Do not dismantle batteries. When a battery is dismantled, contact with the components can be harmful and may cause personal injury or fire.
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A battery turned warm in my pocket. Is it normal?

No, batteries should not become warm when not in use. We print a caution on our packaging warning consumers not to carry or store batteries loose in your pocket or purse. They can be shorted by contact with metal objects and leak or rupture and cause personal injury.
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Who invented the battery?

In the 1860s, George Leclanche of France developed what would be the forerunner of the world’s first widely used battery; the zinc carbon cell. The anode was a zinc and mercury-alloyed rod (zinc, the anode in Alessandro Volta’s original cell, proved to be one of the best metals for the job). The cathode was a porous cup of crushed manganese dioxide and some carbon. Into the mix was inserted a carbon rod to act as the current collector. Both the anode and the cathode cup were plunged into a liquid solution of ammonium chloride, which acted as the electrolyte. The system was called a “wet cell.” Though Leclanche’s cell was rugged and inexpensive, it was eventually replaced by the improved “dry cell” in the 1880s. The anode became the zinc can containing the cell, and the electrolyte became a paste rather than a liquid; basically the zinc carbon cell that is known today.
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What is inside a battery?

Batteries may be small, but they’re far from simple. They’re highly engineered electrochemical cells. Chemical energy is converted to electrical energy by a redox reaction. This process takes place between the three major parts of a battery: the anode, cathode, and electrolyte. Different types of batteries use different materials for these parts. The materials for these parts are chosen depending on how well they give up or attract electrons, something that must happen for an electric current to be generated. The anode is often a metal, the cathode is a metallic oxide, and the electrolyte is a salt solution that facilitates the ion flow.
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What is an alkaline battery?

Duracell pioneered the Alkaline Manganese Dioxide electrochemical system nearly 40 years ago. In the 1960s, this battery system rapidly became the popular choice of designers in the ever-widening field of consumer electronics. Alkaline or Alkaline Manganese Dioxide cells have many advantages over zinc-carbon cells including up to ten times the ampere-hour capacity at high and continuous drain conditions. Also, its performance at low temperatures is superior to other conventional aqueous electrolyte primary cells. Other significant advantages are longer shelf life, better leakage resistance, and superior low-temperature performance. Its more effective, secure seal provides excellent resistance to leakage and corrosion. Today, Duracell manufactures three alkaline batteries: Ultra Power, Plus Power and Simply.
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Can Duracell Rechargeable batteries be charged in any battery charger?

Yes, in any charger, but Duracell chargers are recommended because they are among the safest in the industry.
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Why choosing Duracell chargers?

If you are tired of waiting a full night for your batteries to be recharged, Duracell chargers are the perfect solution for you. Duracell offers four different models of battery chargers, all coming with different specificities and charging times, to ensure you will find the charger that fits your needs: the ‘15 min Expert Charger’, the ‘45 min Advanced Charger’, the ‘1 h Multi Charger’ or the ‘Value Charger’. And because speed of charger does matter, Duracell chargers are charging faster than the best-selling competitor worldwide*. *When using same capacity AA batteries. Based on Nielsen sales data.
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Do Duracell Rechargeable battery chargers shut off when charging is complete?

Duracell chargers switch to a trickle charge when the normal charge is complete. You should unplug your charger when charging is complete or when it is not in use.
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Which devices shouldn’t you use rechargeable batteries in?

You can use rechargeable batteries in absolutely any device where you would normally use an alkaline battery, unless stated otherwise by the device manufacturer. There are no interference implications using rechargeable battery brands that are different to the device brand.
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Can Duracell Rechargeable batteries be charged in any battery charger?

Yes, in any charger, but Duracell chargers are recommended because they are among the safest in the industry.
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Can Duracell Rechargeable batteries be used in my device?

Yes. As long as it is the right size, you can use Duracell rechargeables cells in any device, however Duracell recommends consulting your device user manual for compatibility. Rechargeable cells are best suited for mid to high-drain devices – in other words, devices such as digital camera or wireless game controller, which usually drain alkaline batteries quickly.
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Can I use Coppertop Batteries for all devices?

Duracell Coppertop Batteries give reliable performance across all your devices.
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How should I dispose of batteries?

All rechargeable batteries should be recycled. Other batteries can and should be recycled as well. Refer to our Care and Disposal section to get all the details on this topic.
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Which is the best Alkaline battery in terms of performance in the Duracell portfolio?

Duracell Ultra is our Number 1 longest lasting battery for all devices.
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Do all batteries last the same amount of time?

No, different batteries provide different lengths of life and power output, depending on the type and amount of chemicals used to compose them. Think of it like cooking a meal: Using different ingredients and amounts make the meal taste different.
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How does a battery work?

Batteries may seem simple, but the delivery of packaged power is a complicated electrochemical process. Electric current in the form of electrons begin to flow in the external circuit when the device—a light bulb for example—is turned on. At that time, the anode material, zinc, gives up two electrons per atom in a process called oxidation, leaving unstable zinc ions behind. After the electrons do their work powering the light bulb, they re-enter the cell at the cathode, where they combine with the active material, manganese dioxide, in a process called reduction. The combined processes of oxidation and reduction couldn’t occur in a power cell without an internal way to carry electrons back to the anode, balancing the external flow of current. This process is accomplished by the movement of negatively charged hydroxide ions present in the water solution called the electrolyte. Every electron entering the cathode reacts with the manganese dioxide to form MnOO-. Then, MnOO- reacts with water from the electrolyte. In that reaction, the water splits, releasing hydroxide ions into the electrolyte and hydrogen ions that combine with MnOO- to form MnOOH. The internal circuit is completed when the hydroxide ions produced in this reaction at the cathode flow to the anode in the form of ionic current. There, they combine with unstable zinc ions, which were formed at the anode when the electrons were originally given up to the external circuit. This produces zinc oxide and water. This completes the circuit (which is necessary to have a constant flow of electricity) and powers your flashlight.
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How can I get a better life out of my batteries?

Here are a few tips to help extend the life of your batteries.
  • Turn off battery-operated radios and appliances when they’re not in use
  • Remove batteries from devices that won’t be used for a while
  • Store your batteries in a dry place at normal room temperature without the contacts touching
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Which battery type should I use in extreme temperatures?

If equipment must be used periodically in extreme temperatures, premium alkaline batteries are recommended because they perform much better than zinc carbon batteries under such conditions.
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Should I clean the battery compartment?

For best performance, keep battery contact surfaces and battery compartment contacts clean. Rub them with a clean pencil eraser or a clean cloth each time you replace batteries.
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Can I charge other brands’ rechargeable batteries in a Duracell charger?

Yes, Duracell chargers will charge other NiMH AA or AAA batteries. However, Duracell cannot guarantee the quality, safety, or performance of other battery brands, so using Duracell rechargeable batteries is recommended.
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When should I remove batteries from my device?

Batteries should be removed from devices/equipment when:
  • The device is not expected to be in use for several months
  • The batteries are worn out (to prevent possible damage from battery leakage)
  • The device is being powered by household (AC) current
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Can new Duracell chargers charge other NiMH cells?

Yes, they can charge any NiMH cells.
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Why use a rechargeable Nickel-Metal Hydride (NiMH) battery?

Many of today’s high-drain devices like digital cameras require replacing your batteries more often than you’re used to-why not choose Duracell NiMH batteries? They can be recharged hundreds of times. The Duracell rechargeable AA battery is ideally suited for powering digital cameras and other devices that require a lot of power. Also available are AAA batteries, useful in small electronic devices such as MP3 players and handheld games. Duracell rechargeable NiMH batteries and chargers offer you the quality and dependability you’ve come to trust from Duracell, in a long-lasting, cost-effective power option.
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Can alkaline batteries be recharged?

Only batteries that are specifically labeled “rechargeable” should be recharged. Any attempt to recharge a non-rechargeable battery could result in rupture or leakage. We recommend that you use NiMH Duracell rechargeables. Paired with one of our different chargers, they can be recharged hundreds of times.
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Does it matter what type of batteries I use in my device?

Always replace the battery or batteries in your equipment with the size and type specified by the manufacturer. Alkaline batteries are often recommended for best performance because zinc carbon batteries have inferior life spans and equipment may not operate properly if zinc carbon batteries are used
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Can I recharge any battery?

You can only recharge a battery if it’s specifically marked “rechargeable.” Recharging a non-rechargeable battery may cause it to rupture or leak and may cause personal injury.
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What is the difference between lithium and alkaline?

Lithium and alkaline batteries employ different chemistries for maximum performance in different devices. Light in weight and compact, lithium batteries often come in distinctive sizes for use in specific devices.
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Which is the best alkaline battery for performance in the portfolio?

Duracell Ultra is the Most Powerful Duracell Alkaline battery ever across all devices.
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Do I have to change all the batteries at the same time?

We do recommend changing all batteries in a unit at the same time. A partially used battery will drain energy from a new one, reducing the total amount of battery power available.
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Can I mix old and new batteries?

Do not mix old and new batteries. Doing so will reduce overall performance and may cause battery leakage or rupture. We recommend replacing all batteries within a device.
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Can I mix different battery types?

No, different batteries are designed for different purposes. Mixing a lithium battery with an alkaline battery will not improve device performance. In fact, it will reduce performance and may even damage your device or cause battery leakage or rupture. As well, do not mix different battery brands within a device. Doing so will reduce overall performance and may also cause battery leakage or rupture. We recommend using the same type of batteries within a device.
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