Here are the most common queries regarding AA batteries that will serve as your quick yet comprehensive guide.
WHAT ARE AA BATTERIES?
These are the classic or regular batteries you can easily think of when somebody talks about the term “battery.” The AA battery is the most marketable cell globally because of its versatility in size, shape, and diversity of devices using it. This can be used as single or multiple cells in various gadgets. There are different types of AA batteries available that you can choose from based on your specific battery requirements and other preferences.
AA BATTERY TYPES
This is not just about grabbing your favorite AA battery in a bulk box or getting a piece or two from convenient stores. You should know the different AA battery types to consider when looking for these to replace old ones in your home and utility devices. So whenever you plan to buy AA batteries in Australia, New Zealand, or any other country, make sure that you know the different types of AA batteries you need to handle from different manufacturers, suppliers, or even retailers.
PRIMARY BATTERIES
Primary AA batteries or the standard cells are the ones you can see in almost any store. These are made of Lithium, Alkaline or Alkaline Manganese in the case of Procell and Procell INTENSE Power AA battery
ALKALINE AA BATTERY FEATURES
- Mostly designed for low drain devices with some exceptions though
- Regular AA batteries must not be with high drain devices. Use only those specifically engineered for high drain devices such as Procell INTENSE
- Leak prone when kept for longer periods or overtaxed
- Have long shelf life
- Cost-effective
- Used for such devices as cordless phones, TV remotes, handheld kitchen devices, handheld grooming devices, wall clocks, smaller flashlights, non-main accent lighting, medical batteries for different medical devices, instrument/equipment, toys and games, and all other portable audio-visual systems.
LITHIUM AA
Lithium AA is another type of primary or disposable battery. Here are its features.
- Not prone to leaking
- Long shelf life
- Last for years when used in the right devices
- More expensive than Alkaline cells
- Can last up to 9 years or even more
RECHARGEABLE AA BATTERIES
These variants are the opposite of the primary ones. They are also available in most shops and convenience stores worldwide. Though they are far more expensive than primary batteries, many consumers prefer buying these product type as they are extremely useful for longer periods. There are also the pros and cons of rechargeable batteries yet, these variants are still in demand for use in specific original devices and chargers and other compatible units. NiMH batteries are the most common rechargeable power cells these days, although you can still find some NiCad/NiCd variants in some stores.
Rechargeable AA batteries are known for long-term cost-effectiveness and convenience. These are often sold in multiples of two or four cells that are bundled together along with a charger as combo pack. Or you may also find any number of batteries in every pack with the corresponding charger sold separately.
Rechargeable AA battery packs are composed of multiple AA cells that are identical forming a single larger battery. This is used for devices requiring more than one or two batteries to operate. These common pack configurations usually come in a range of 4 to 24 Double-A cells that are assembled in parallel, series, or a mix of these. These packs have plastic end caps that are placed around the cell grouping or secondary wrapping for the intended layout. These also come with wired terminals and additional interconnects providing managed power-flow between the cells in pack. This allows a delivery that is more evenly balanced across every combined circuit.
The best thing about rechargeable AA battery packs is that they behave like a single cell that you can swap in and out. This is even more convenient for devices with multiple cells as you do not have to remove every cell when charging or replacing them. High-quality rechargeable battery packs are assembled in such a way that all individual packs can be charged or discharged at similar rates to each other over their lifetimes, reasonably balanced, and functionally identical. This is a safer and better option for then batteries. This also implies long-term health for your devices. Equal and consistent discharge rates are particularly important for equal cell workloads and better performance.
LITHIUM-ION AA BATTERIES
Lithium-ion chemistry is the rechargeable version of lithium batteries. This is usually used to power mobile phones, drones, laptops, vaping and other high-drain devices. Lithium in Li-ion cells combine with other compounds forming Li-Ion cells in various forms such as rectangular, flat, or even larger than the traditional button-top AA.
AA BATTERIES FAQs
Here are the frequently asked questions about AA batteries that most people want to know about, whether you are an individual consumer or for business and industries.
HOW LONG DO AA BATTERY LAST?
The battery life of AA power cells depends on the different factors. Here are the following factors that play vital roles in determining how long will AA batteries last.
- High drain or low drain devices
- cell type’s nominal voltage
- Conditions and applications for using the batteries
- Compatibility in terms of voltage to avoid performance issues
- The specific brand’s quality in terms of materials used and manufacturing process
- Intensity and frequency in using the batteries for various activities
On average, AA batteries last for about 5-10 years, but it still depends on the different key factors discussed here. So, do not wonder if your AA cells last even longer than the range mentioned here or even if they run out of power before 5 years. The way you deal with your AA power cells and other factors contribute to its longevity, durability, and even performance.
ARE AA BATTERIES ALLOWED ON PLANES?
Yes, AA batteries are allowed on planes. However, you need to be aware of these important points to remember when traveling with your batteries along with your favorite devices.
- NiMH rechargeable AA batteries and such other dry cells as Lithium and Alkaline AA are allowed as spares and inside devices in carry-on luggage
- Your checked baggage allow AA batteries mentioned above except for the spare Lithium AA as these should only be carried onboard
- Pack any spare battery carried outside of your devices in individual plastic bags or protective plastic case. Or at least tape both end contacts for the air travel duration.
- Generally, as much as possible, do not put spare batteries in checked baggage. This will help you to be safe whenever something unavoidable happens. You can also seek professional help from trained whenever technical issues arise concerning your batteries during air travel.
- Do not carry loose batteries without protecting both ends as these may interact with other metal objects inside your bag such as paper clips, zips, coins, and other metallic objects. This can become dangerously hot and will cause short circuit.
- Spare Lithium-Ion batteries are often subject to strict size limits. So, it is better to consult your airline about this.
WHY DO AA BATTERIES LEAK?
Corroding or leaking of batteries is a common scenario. This is quite common with Alkaline batteries, especially when they are left unattended for so long. This is for the fact that these batteries are self-discharging continuously in tiny increments even when not in use.
Small amounts of hydrogen gas are produced during the discharging process in Alkaline batteries. Pressure is also gradually built within the battery’s sealed casing. Over time, small amounts of material from the cell’s inward portion come out under the mounting pressure. This material is corrosive and must be removed immediately. It should also be cleaned away from electrical components right after removing it.
Now that you know the reason why batteries leak, it is also best time to know how to avoid battery leakage. The quick solution here is to regularly replace old batteries. You should also keep in mind about the best practices in battery storage. It is also advisable to use rechargeable cells for long term storage in the case of devices that are not always used.
CAN AA BATTERIES EXPLODE?
Yes, AA batteries can explode. However, the explosion of these batteries is not as dangerous enough as that other batteries that have larger capacities. Some of the causes of battery rupture or explosion are (1) the batteries are inserted in the wrong direction; (2) high storage and operating temperature exposure; (3) recharging cells that are not rechargeable, and (4) mixed with other cells of different types and capacities.
Using faulty cells or substandard ones can cause explosion. One common mistake in using AA disposable batteries is that you run a brand-new battery along with the older ones. This can effectively reverse the drained cell’s polarity and can cause power issues.
If you have been exposed to leaking batteries, explosions, and ruptures, immediately clean the surface by washing away all traces of the corrosive material. Neutralize any remaining trace in your skin with an acid such as lemon juice and vinegar. Do this after washing off thoroughly with water as an exothermic chemical reaction can happen.
Make sure to thoroughly wash with water any material that gets in contact with your eyes. Or seek medical help as soon as possible. After making sure that you get rid of these harmful materials from your body, check your devices and clean any trace of harmful chemicals that remain within the device’s battery compartment or any other portion where leakage or rupture happens. Clean your device thoroughly as any trace left can irreparably damage your devices. You can place vinegar or lemon juice in a cotton bud. A flat screwdriver is also recommended to remove residues that are harder to get rid of.
HOW DO YOU STORE AA BATTERIES?
Proper care and storage of the Double-A batteries will not boost the performance of your devices. You can even optimize battery life and durability. Most of all, you can protect your children and the whole family from short circuits or any other related issue.
Take the top tips here for Double A proper care and storage.
- Keep these power cells out of children’s reach.
- For spare batteries, keep them in original packaging. Your time to take them out is when you are ready to use them to replace the old ones or to put them in your new devices. The advantage of this is that you will not just have to protect the cells that have not been used but you also separate them for partially drained units to avoid short circuits.
- Refrain from storing batteries inside your devices that you will not be using for a long time.
- Separate the partially used batteries and brand-new ones and label them clearly in your storage section.
- Never try to burn, crush, puncture, or even disassemble batteries of any kind.
- When storing rechargeables, periodical testing and topping up is required, especially if you will store them for a long time. Fully drained batteries in storage can deplete capacity.
- Prevent having short circuit through any other metal item direct contact. You can place these batteries and all metals in individual plastic bags to separate them from one another. You may also put tapes at both ends or battery terminals. It is even more convenient if you have a plastic battery storage box for keeping tidying things up and in proper order.
- Store your batteries in a cool yet dry environment. This means at room temperature or even below.
Longer shelf life these days are what most batteries feature. These impressive manufacturers even give discounts to customers for buying batteries in bulk or for larger multipacks. Obtaining original batteries and having the latest battery technological innovations are great for longer battery life. However, do not forget the tips mentioned above are even more helpful for optimal performance.
ARE AA BATTERIES RECYCLABLE?
Yes, while most single-use batteries are actually disposable as they are prone to leaking and corrosion, almost all AA batteries are recyclable. This is for the fact that these have that significant part of material that can always be recycled whenever feasible for long-term environmental advantage.
Consumers must then observe proper battery disposal and recycling procedures to help maximise its positive effects to the environment. These batteries must not be disposed in your household collection bins, though. You can ask your battery manufacturer, supplier, or your area’s respective department as they have special collection areas designated for recyclable AA batteries and other types. Most battery suppliers, manufacturers and specialty stores have their respective collection sections wherein you can just put your used batteries for the recycling process. Other manufacturers will accept your old unused batteries, and this agreed upon purchase. Most regions have some various adjustments regarding recycling concerns and drop-off facilities, so you have to know these beforehand to be more eco-friendly regarding battery usage and other related activities.
WHICH ELECTRONIC ITEMS ARE CONSIDERED AS HIGH DRAIN DEVICES?
High drain devices are those that use lots of energy and in high amounts in short periods of time. These devices require specifically engineered batteries “to deliver precise pulses of energy while lasting longer in high drain professional devices” such as what Procell INTENSE Power batteries do.
Here are electronic items you have in your home, office or industries that are considered as high drain devices.
- Air Fresheners
- Torches
- Door Locks
- Automatic Paper Towel Dispensers
- Automatic Soap Dispensers
- Hands Free Sinks
- Automatic Urinals
- Label Makers
- Video Camera Scopes
- Electric Staplers
- Industrial Pencil Sharpeners
- Keyless Access Control Locks
- Flushometers
- Hard Hat Lights
- Self-Leveling Laser Plumb Lines
- Infusion Pumps
- Barricade Lights
- Security Cameras
- Stun Guns (for Security Units)
- Automatic Taps
- Office Equipment
- Telemetry Devices
- Blood Pressure Monitors
- Blood Pressure Kits
- Security Safes
- Electronic Security Box
WHICH ELECTRONIC ITEMS ARE CONSIDERED AS LOW DRAIN DEVICES?
Low drain devices are those that do not drain easily compared to high drain ones. The batteries used for these units require consistent performance in a longer lasting manner.
Here is the list of low drain devices that are compatible with batteries for low drain use such as Procell Alkaline Power AA batteries , Duracell Coppertop AA, Energizer, and other leading brands.
- TV/DVD Remotes
- Clocks
- CO Monitors
- Thermostats
- Oxygen Pumps
- Defibrillators
- Thermometers
- pH Monitors
- Scales
- Centrifuges
- Microscopes
- Wireless Mice
- Projector Remotes
- Tape Recorders
- Calculators
- Laser Pointers
- Clamp – On Meters
- Spirometers
- Heart Rate Monitors
- Volt Meters
- Amp Meters
- Multimeters
- Otoscopes
- Dermascopes
- Laryngoscopes
- Pulse Oximeters
- Ophthalmoscopes
- Otoscopes
- Pagers
- Penlights
- Metal Detectors
- Handicapped Door Openers
- Breathalyzers
- Remote Communication Devices
- Wireless Controllers
- Voice Recorders
- Food Thermometers
- Timers
- Holt Meters
- Oxygen Concentrators
- Electrical Testers
- Circuit Testers
- Air Monitors
- Cable Testers
- Tachometers
- Tyre Gauges
- Hand Mixers
- UPC Code Readers
- Scanners
- Psychrometer
- Refrigerant Monitors
- Refractometers
- Illuminated Magnifiers
- Stud Finders
- Water Timers
- Allergen Monitor Kits for Beverages
- Beverage Monitors
- Digital Multimeters
- Emergency Exit Alarms
- Thermistors
- Toxin Detectors
- Voltage Detectors
- Sodium Chloride meters
- Moisture Meters
- Job Com Radios
- Motion Sensors
- Safe Keypads
- Stopwatches
- Ticket Readers
- Radiation Alarm Monitors
- Megaphones
- Noncontact Voltage Detectors
- Underground Cable Locators
- Electrician Combo Kits
- Pocket Toner CATV Cable Testers
- LED Testers
- Line Cable Testers
- Portable Transmitters
- Speaker Impedance Meters
- LAN Cable Testers
- Audio Generators
- Audio Analysers
- Modular Cable Testers
- Bulls Eye Lasers
- Construction Calculators
- Depth Gauges
- Digital Protractors
- Electronic Levels
- Height Gauges
- Laser Distance Measuring Devices
- Laser Estimators
- Laser Plumb Bobs
- Wall Sensors and Scanners
- Capacitor Testers
- Flashlights
- Light Meters
- NTSC Generators
- Wireless Dimmers
- Wireless Soldering Irons
- Anemometers
- Flame Safety Control Testers
- Flange Panel Thermometer
- Humidity Meter
- Hardness Tester
- HVACIR Anaslysers
- Maghometers
- Micro Manometers
- Relative Humidity Meters
- Methane Detectors
- Chip Measurement Analysers
- Earth Ground Detectors
- Power Quality Testers
- Process Tools Thermal Imagers
- Money Counters
- Occupancy Sensors
- Black Lights
- Clock Radios
WHAT IS MEMORY EFFECT?
Memory effect refers to the battery capacity loss due to the repetitive partial recharging and discharging without having the full discharge benefit. This is commonly found in Nickel Cadmium or NiCad batteries while it is not evident in NiMH batteries.
WHAT IS A TRICKLE CHARGE?
A trickle charge means a charge that is low rate. This is done to replenish the battery capacity that was lost during the self-discharge process.
WHAT IS A SMART CHARGER?
A smart charger a special charger that monitors such battery parameters as state of charge, voltage, and temperature with its microprocessor circuitry. The information gathered determines when to stop the charge.
WHY DO BATTERIES BECOME WARM WHEN CHARGING?
Batteries become warm because of the energy that the charger puts into the battery. You will also notice that the shorter the charge time, the warmer the batteries become.
HOW LONG SHOULD NIMH BATTERIES LAST IN THE LONG RUN?
Under proper conditions, AA NiMH batteries lasts for about 500 to 1000 charges. This is equivalent to 2-3 years of use. It is good to remember that the more you use NiMH, the longer these will last.
DOES RAPID CHARGING REDUCE THE LIFE OF BATTERIES?
No. Using a professionally designed smart charger, NiMH batteries are mostly charged in an hour without battery life reduction. However, you must be careful when selecting chargers. Use a charger that is designed for NiMH batteries alone. There are also chargers that can accommodate both NiCad and NiMH batteries as well as for both AAA and AA batteries at the same charging time. Some even come as universal chargers with tester and dischargers. Take extra care in choosing the right chargers that are suitable for your specific device and battery. Consult your device and manufacturer as you will see that some specific chargers actually cost more but offer greater value to your battery’s performance, longevity, and durability.
CAN CHARGERS DAMAGE A BATTERY?
Yes, the usual cause for damage is overcharging. The 5, 8, or 15-hour chargers usually cause the issue as these do not have the mechanism for controlling charge.
IS BUYING BATTERIES IN BULK GOOD FOR ME?
Buying batteries in bulk is a nice option, especially for the highly in demand power solutions for the household and office or industrial use such as AA and AAA batteries and other related products. The benefits of buying bulk AA batteries are numerous based on your specific requirements. For one, you get more savings for buying in bulk. Another thing is that you will not run out of batteries whenever you need them, especially during emergencies. This even saves you time and energy without having to rush outside just to buy a small pack for any urgent replacement. Buying batteries in bulk gives convenience and even makes your daily activities hassle-free. This not only saves you money, but even saves you from stress and other psychosomatic effects that stress may bring.
WHERE TO BUY AA BULK BATTERIES?
You can buy AA bulk batteries and other bulk products at the most reputable direct supplier and wholesaler. HBPlus Battery Specialists is Australia’s leading and most trusted supplier and wholesaler of AAA, AA batteries and other related products providing reliable power to consumers and the various industries. You can choose from our wide range of bulk AA batteries from such world-class brands as Energizer, Duracell, Procell INTENSE, Procell Industrial AA, Ansmann, Varta, Eneloop, Camelion, Fujitsu, and many other top brands you can ever name of.
THE BOTTOM LINE
AA batteries and other swappable cells come in various types. You can either choose to go for the primary ones or go for rechargeable batteries. You can also opt which battery chemistry you wish to have for your devices. Buying AA and AAA batteries in bulk is a smarter choice than buying in smaller packs of 2, 4 or so as these gives you the most benefits you ever need to make life and work easier and even more balanced. It is also good to know whether your devices are high drain or low drain for optimal battery performance and device durability. Knowing how to take good care of your batteries and devices, proper disposal and recycling concerns must be thought beforehand as these will not only help you optimize your battery and devices’ performance but will save you and your family from possible dangers and even protect the environment, too. These batteries are not only good for individual users or end consumers but to the various industries as well such as healthcare, hospitality, contractors, commercial properties, utilities, education, and manufacturing.
