Rechargeable Battery Care--Just the Facts

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When it comes to battery care and battery life, there is no shortage of tips and tricks. However, truths and myths seem to flow freely out of many sources, and seperating them can prove to be a difficult task. With a recent purchase of NiMH (Nickel Metal Hydride) batteries from enrgizer, came the curosity as to how to best take care of my new batteries so that I could get the most out of them. During my search, I came accross some truth and plenty of myth. In the end, it became apparent that the best way to find out the secret to long battery life, is to get information straight from the manufacturer. After all, they should no best. I consulted Energizer and Duracell for helpful information on how to insure long-term use with rechargeable batteries.

Do NiMH batteries need to be charged before using them for the first time?

Some batteries will come partially charged from the factory so that the first charge will not take as long, however they may not be fully charged. Both Energizer and Duracell recommend charging before the first use. Furthermore, NiMH batteries may not deliever full performance until they have gone through their first 2 or 3 charge cycles.

Do NiMH batteries have to be fully drained before recharging in order to avoid memory issues?

This is a myth often recommended for all rechargeable batteries but works only with Nickel Cadmium batteries, which are not used heavily in consumer products anymore (generally, lithium or NiMH are used). Both Energizer and Duracell agree that NiMH batteries do not suffer from memory problems associated with Nickel Cadmium batteries. Energizer recommend charging whenever it is convenient., and if batteries are stored longer than 30 days,you should recharge before use for optimal performance.

How many times can NiMH batteries be recharged?