Think of your average car trip. After hitting the open road, you turn on the radio to catch the weather and traffic reports. An iPod keeps you entertained and a cell phone keeps you in touch. Maybe you even brought a laptop computer for business. All of these products, even cars, use batteries. Ever present, and sometimes maligned, batteries make our modern lives portable. At Overstock.com, we have great deals on batteries to match our great deals on electronics and this battery buying guide includes basic information and terminology to help you sort through the options.
One of the greatest advantages of batteries is that choosing the correct one is easy. Product design dictates the battery format and battery styles are not interchangeable. However, this convenience can turn into an obstacle when you need a replacement. For example; a cell phone with a factory-installed Li-ion battery may not accommodate a generic Li-ion battery. Carefully check out the battery details before purchasing that new camera; you'll want to know what you will need in the future and if you can get it.
If you are in the market for a product-specific battery, you've come to the right place. Overstock.com offers many rechargeable batteries for cell phones, cameras, laptops and other electronics. Each product description lists the compatible brands and models.
Rechargeable batteries
Many of today's personal electronics, from shavers to portable DVD players use rechargeable batteries. They are so convenient that consumer demand for rechargeable batteries is growing. The technology has been adapted to the familiar AAA, AA, C, D and 9-volt standard sizes, thus reducing overall battery production and waste. So, consider using them for all of your battery-operated appliances. Rechargeable batteries initially cost more than single-use batteries but they are economical in the long term as you can use them over and over again. Remember to shop at Overstock.com first to find the best prices on rechargeable batteries and battery chargers.
By taking a few precautionary measures, you'll have batteries that keep your consumer electronics in playing mode. Protect batteries from extreme heat and do not leave them or the appliance in a hot car or in direct sunlight for extended periods of time. Most batteries fair well in cold temperatures, especially Li-ion batteries, although exposure to extreme cold should be limited. Also, avoid exposing batteries to magnets which can damage them. Don't try to recharge non-rechargeable batteries; this can cause them to explode.
The memory loss effect
Rechargeable batteries can suffer from a process of "memory effect." When a battery is recharged before completely running down, its total charging capacity is diminished. The battery "forgets" that it can recharge fully, so to speak. It is a good idea to let these batteries run down before recharging them. However, Li-ion batteries do not have this problem, making them excellent for laptop computers.
Be sure to read our Laptop Buying Guide and our Camera Buying Guide for more information on product-specific batteries.
What is the proper method for disposing of batteries?
According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), over 3 billion batteries are sold in the United States every year; including car and rechargeable batteries. That's a lot of cell phone batteries to toss into local landfills. The good news is that battery manufacturers have been reducing the amount of mercury in batteries since the 1980s. And, the Battery Act of 1996 enforces the phasing out of mercury in battery production. The bad news is that batteries still have plenty of toxic substances that can leak into the soil and water or harm the skin and eyes of people and animals.
Fortunately, many states and local governments now have laws overseeing the safe disposal of batteries. Also, manufacturers are heeding the call to recycle batteries, especially rechargeable units. In general, consumers should try to find a safe disposal or recycling site for Ni-Cad batteries. The laws vary concerning other batteries; many are accepted into local waste management programs. Check your local government web sites for more information on the preferred method of discarding batteries and the location of disposal sites.
How long will the batteries last?
A battery's run time depends on how it is used. High-energy electronics such as digital cameras or camcorders drain battery power faster than low-energy devices, such as flashlights. In general, single-use batteries are great for low-energy products and can be stored for up to seven years. Rechargeable batteries are a better choice for high-energy items. Of course, if you're constantly on the phone, you'll be constantly recharging the cell phone battery. It is a small price to pay for wireless freedom. And, when those rechargeable batteries finally quit working, new ones can be found at a small price in Overstock.com's camera and optics department.
Buy extra and be ready:
Dead batteries can turn the world into a lonely place if you don't have back-ups for flashlights, remote controls and toys. Purchase extra batteries from our office supply department and you'll be ready for those momentary hassles. A dead cell phone battery can cause major headaches. When the battery starts declining, be sure to have a new one on hand. With new energy, you can snap those treasured vacation photos, record the birthday party and call for help.
Keep extra accessories close at hand:
Batteries are the most vital accessory for portable electronics, but they are by no means the only important ones. While you're shopping at Overstock.com for batteries, consider what else you need. Do you need a laptop battery? Check out our computer accessories for a new cooling fan as well. Protect the phone and its battery with a new cell phone case. If you need a new battery charger, you guessed it, we have those, too. Finding low discount prices on high quality electronics has never been easier.