Sunday, January 19, 2014

Rechargeable energy


I just recently bought a really good book with great tips for saving money. Some of the tips within the book are very much in line with looking after the environment (although that isn't of course the main object of the book). I for one have a few devices at home that require batteries as I'm sure do many people. However, it was not until last week that I learned that some rechargeable batteries are better than others. No, I don't mean with regard to brand names, I mean with regard to the mAH or milli amp hours. Basically to cut an explanation short, the higher the mAH on the batteries the longer they will last. So, for example I have a voice recorder for college lectures which takes AAA batteries. Apparently, the mAH on some of rechargeable batteries ranges from 600-850 mAH. I thought, "Typical, I bought the cheapest ones in the supermarket and therefore probably lost out" but as it happens I had 850 mAH batteries and was very impressed with myself. I popped into the local supermarket again to check other brands and yes, many of the well known ones are a bit of a disappointment. Furthermore, I checked the AA batteries that are always required around the house: TV remote controls, toys, torches etc, and these too can be anything up to 2500 mAH. While I don't have an expensive charger, it isn't very "green" to just throw my present one out and purchase a higher quality one. If you are thinking of making a purchase it might be wise to research one which might be more efficient.
So firstly:


  1. If you are looking to change to rechargeable batteries (and you should if you feel you are constantly buying batteries), check out good chargers.
  2. Remember to make the most of your money and check out the mAH figures which you will find on the side of the battery as well as the box. This will ensure you get a longer use in between charges as well as extend the usage of the battery life overall. These batteries can only be recharged so many times before they die.
  3. Don't go for well known names assuming they are the best. This is not always the case and brand names as we know are generally expensive.
  4. Look out for deals that perhaps give you 2 extra batteries in the box for free.
  5. Make sure that your device will take rechargeable batteries. If you have not checked this beforehand then you will have wasted your money. Try and check that devices take rechargeable batteries before you make the purchase.
See what you could save in batteries this year and be satisfied that you are making a difference to the environment and remember to send expired batteries to the correct recycling facilities. Many shops now assist with this.  Happy Charging!

(The book I purchased was published 2013:- "How to save 5000" by James O'Donovan.)

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