Checking sell- and buy-by dates on fast moving consumer goods is second nature. But, how often do we check expiry dates on batteries before we purchase them? ‘Expire’ means to breathe out, or breathe our last. Are battery manufacturers sending us a warning? This appears to be the case with alkaline and zinc-carbon batteries. They have battery expiry dates well worthy of our attention.
What Alkaline and Zinc-Carbon Battery Expiry Dates Mean
We should mention we are speaking of single-use or primary zinc and alkaline batteries here. Rechargeable batteries can recycle many times. However zinc and alkaline single-use ones start gradually wearing out from the day they are made.
This process can take up to five years in terms of their actual battery life. However, when they reach their indicated dates they are definitely starting to run out of energy.
Most consumers assume batteries hold their full charge when new, and only start consuming it when the device is on. In reality, batteries begin to self-discharge right from the beginning.
Carbon-zinc batteries really are the ones for watch, for they reach their lives’ ends faster than alkaline. They also have lower capacity when new. Hence in their case it makes sense to pass them over when they are within six months of their indicated expiry dates.
Where to Find a Battery Expiry Date
There is no standard for where the information appears. It may on the label alongside the battery content. It may also be stamped into the battery bottom. In the case of button batteries, battery expiry dates are usually on the packaging. This is another reason to avoid unwrapping them prematurely. UPS Battery Center’s rechargeable lead-acid battery products are fresh from the factory. They have a lifespan of three to five years with correct use.
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Preview Image: Marking Life Preservers with Battery Expiry Dates
