It\u2019s the Christmas\/Holiday season\u2026 things with batteries abound. Whether you\u2019re buying something that came with pre-installed batteries, or breaking out last year\u2019s battery powered holiday decorations, there are some things you should look out for.<\/p>\n
If your item arrived with batteries, replace them ASAP. They\u2019re cheap, and not as strong as “real” batteries. (Plus, if the item has a “try me” button, they\u2019ve already been put through their paces.) If you don\u2019t want to replace them (or it\u2019s Christmas Eve and you TOTALLY forgot to buy some), at least take them out and inspect them for signs of leakage and\/or corrosion.<\/p>\n
Leakage\/corrosion (usually with, but not limited to, older batteries) will appears as a clear liquid or a caked on crystalline looking powder*.<\/p>\n
If they\u2019ve leaked inside the item, use vinegar and q-tips to clean up the affected areas. When it makes contact, expect it to foam. Keep working the affected area until the “fizzing” stops.<\/p>\n
If it looks like the metal areas that touch the battery have corroded or rusted, use something to scrub them down to restore a shiny metal surface. Try an Emery board, steel wool, pencil eraser\u2026 or a Dremel grinder if you\u2019re *REALLY* motivated. (True story)<\/p>\n
If you\u2019re unable to fix the item, the larger battery manufactures offer warranties to replace or repair anything damaged by a defect in their batteries. (See below for a couple links)<\/p>\n
Remember: this is bad stuff you\u2019re dealing with. Flush immediately if it comes in contact with your skin\u2026 and don\u2019t accidentally get it on your finger and rub your eye afterward\u2026 I have it on really good authority that it might hurt\u2026 a LOT.<\/p>\n
Play safe out there, kids!<\/p>\n
http:\/\/www.duracell.com\/en-US\/battery-care-disposal.jspx (DURACELL BATTERY GUARANTEE \u2013 Bottom of the page)<\/p>\n
http:\/\/www.energizer.com\/batteries\/everyday-use\/Pages\/faq.aspx (#13)<\/p>\n
* White on the negative side is zinc hydroxide
\nPink on the positive side is manganese III oxide
\nGreen is likely copper oxide, and white stuff elsewhere may be oxides of other metals used.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
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