What to do When Devices That Use Rechargeable Batteries No Longer Can Hold a Recharge

The great thing about appliances, tools and devices that use rechargeable batteries is that they produce a lot of performance just by plugging them in for a period and being ready to go again. However, everyone has eventually learned that rechargeable batteries (and their devices), at some point, no longer hold a charge. The Montgomery County Department of Environmental Protection wants those batteries and devices to be disposed of in a safe and proper way.

Sometimes rechargeable batteries can be removed from the devices. In other devices, the batteries are part of the interior of the product. When the battery can no longer hold a charge, they render the device useless.

Appliances, tools and devices that run on rechargeable batteries should not be thrown into the regular trash or into a recycling bin. These devices release toxic chemicals and cause serious fires when punctured, cracked or crushed.

When possible, remove useless rechargeable batteries from devices before getting rid of the device. Take the batteries to the County’s Household Hazardous Waste Drop-off at the Shady Grove Processing Facility and Transfer Station located at 16101 Frederick Rd. in Derwood. The batteries can also be taken to select retailers that offer to properly recycle batteries.

If the battery cannot be removed, bring the whole appliance to Household Hazardous Waste Drop-off for safe disposal.

For more information on recycling batteries and to locate battery drop-off locations, click here.