Rechargeable batteries can be a wonderful way to practice green living. By using rechargeable batteries there will be less waste in the land fills. As beneficial as these types of batteries are, there are some times when they are not recommended in the home. Take a look at the following areas where you should use single-use or disposable batteries.
Smoke Detectors
For safety reasons, use one time use batteries for smoke detectors. These batteries can sit idle for longer periods of time. Smoke detectors use very little battery power over a longer period of time, so you won’t save a lot by using the rechargeable batteries, anyway.
Flashlights
Flashlights are another set of items where single-use batteries make more sense. Flashlights tend to sit idle for a long time and are only used in emergencies. You want to make sure that they go on and perform when they are needed. The exception would be flashlights that are used regularly, such as daily for work.
Remote Controls and Clock
Remote controls that power everything from your television to your music system can also do well with disposable batteries. These devices use very little power, so it is fine to use them this way. The same thing goes for clocks. You won’t be changing the batteries often, so traditional versions are perfectly fine.
Camera
Make sure to read your owner’s manual for your camera. Many camera manufacturers recommend only camera quality single-use batteries for their camera. Rechargeable batteries, do to the way they work, may affect the delicate electronics in some higher end cameras.
Some towns offer a local battery recycling program. If yours doesn’t you can still reduce the environmental impact of the disposable batteries that you buy when you look for ones that are specially made without harmful metals. EnviroMax is one such brand.