Today’s the perfect day to talk about batteries – it’s National Battery Day!
February 18 is National Battery Day – the day Italian Scientist Allesandro Volta was born in 1745. In 1800, Volta layered silver, cloth, or paper soaked in salt or acid and zinc into what he called “voltaic piles.” The voltaic piles generated a limited electrical current. Volta proceeded to publish his work, and we get the word “volt” from his name to describe the electric potential.
Then 2 years later, William Cruickshank, an English chemist, designed a battery for mass production.
Battery manufacturing for everyday personal use developed in the last 50-60 years, but archaeologists found evidence of a device that may have been used to electroplate gold onto silver, much like a battery would.
So today, let’s review the importance of batteries for the homeowner or renter in Chicago…
Batteries power much of our daily lives, from remote controls to essential safety devices. However, many people overlook the importance of identifying battery types and disposing of them correctly. Whether you own a home or rent in Chicago, knowing how to manage batteries responsibly can help protect your home, ensure safety, and reduce environmental harm. This guide will help you understand common household batteries, their proper disposal, and how they relate to home safety and maintenance.
1. Identifying Common Household Batteries
Recognizing battery types is the first step toward proper disposal and safe use.
- Alkaline Batteries: Found in remote controls, flashlights, and toys, these batteries are labeled as AA, AAA, C, D, or 9-volt. Most modern alkaline batteries are mercury-free, making them less hazardous.
- Zinc-Carbon Batteries: A more affordable alternative to alkaline batteries, they are often labeled “heavy-duty” or “super heavy-duty.”
- Lithium Batteries: Known for their high energy density, lithium batteries power cameras, smoke detectors, and some high-tech devices. They can be cylindrical (like AA-sized lithium batteries) or coin-shaped (such as CR2032 button cells).
2. Battery Use in Home Safety & Essential Devices
Batteries play a vital role in home safety, energy management, and emergency preparedness.
- Smoke & Carbon Monoxide Detectors: These life-saving devices run on batteries or have battery backups. Change batteries yearly and test devices monthly to ensure proper function.
- Smart Home Devices: Battery-powered security cameras, smart locks, and thermostats require regular monitoring to prevent malfunctions.
- Emergency Preparedness: Power outages can occur due to storms or electrical failures. Keep fresh batteries for flashlights, radios, and portable phone chargers.
3. Battery Storage & Fire Safety
- Proper Storage: Keep batteries in a cool, dry place, away from flammable materials and direct sunlight.
- Lithium Battery Risks: Damaged or overheated lithium batteries can cause fires. Never charge them under pillows or on flammable surfaces.
- Safe Disposal: Never throw lithium-ion batteries in the trash—take them to a recycling center. Tape terminals before disposal to prevent short circuits.
4. Batteries in Home Energy Systems
- Solar & Backup Power: Homeowners investing in solar power storage use rechargeable lithium-ion battery systems like the Tesla Powerwall for energy backup.
- Electric Vehicles (EVs) & Home Charging: EV owners must consider home electrical capacity for safe battery charging.
5. Battery-Powered Home Tools & Maintenance
- Cordless Power Tools: Lithium-ion battery-powered drills, saws, and lawn equipment require proper storage and charging.
- Garage & Outdoor Use: Lawn mowers, smart irrigation controllers, and outdoor cameras also rely on rechargeable batteries.
6. Environmental & Cost Considerations
- Recycling Batteries Reduces Waste: Batteries contain metals and chemicals that should be recovered rather than landfilled.
- Rechargeable vs. Single-Use Batteries: Rechargeable batteries save money and reduce waste over time.
- Homeowners Associations & Local Rules: Some HOAs and rental agreements may have rules on hazardous waste disposal.
7. Proper Disposal Methods
Improper disposal can harm the environment and pose safety risks.
- Alkaline and Zinc-Carbon Batteries: These can typically be disposed of in household trash. However, recycling is preferred to recover materials and reduce landfill waste.
- Lithium Batteries: These should be taken to designated recycling centers to prevent fire hazards.
8. Chicago’s Battery Recycling Facilities
The City of Chicago offers multiple options for battery recycling:
- Household Chemicals & Computer Recycling Facility (HCCRF): Located at 1150 N. North Branch Street, this facility accepts various batteries, including alkaline, rechargeable, and lithium types.
- Public Drop-Off Locations: Some Chicago Public Library branches and Walgreens stores accept household batteries for recycling. Call ahead to confirm availability.
9. Preparing Batteries for Recycling
- For Lithium Batteries: Tape terminals and place batteries in separate plastic bags before disposal.
- For All Batteries: Store them in a cool, dry place until you can take them to a recycling center.
10. Additional Resources
- City of Chicago Recycling Programs: https://www.chicago.gov/city/en/depts/streets/provdrs/recycling.html
- Where to Recycle Batteries in Chicago: https://www.recyclebycity.com/chicago/notebook/where-to-recycle-allsorts-of-batteries
- U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA): https://www.epa.gov/recycle/used-household-batteries
- Battery Recycling Guide: EPA.gov Battery Recyclers of America: https://www.batteryrecyclersofamerica.com/
- Chicago Recycling Facility: Household Chemicals and Computer Recycling Facility 1150 N. North Branch Street, Chicago, IL 60642
- Call to Recycle.org: https://www.call2recycle.org/locator/
By understanding battery types, home safety considerations, and proper disposal methods, Chicago residents—whether renters or homeowners—can contribute to a safer home and a healthier environment.
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