Battery FAQ's - Answers to Frequently Asked Battery Questions

Readers and myself included, have a lot of questions about battery storage and recommended uses, so I've asked an expert to provide facts, answers and dispel myths so we can have a better understanding about batteries and their uses.

Brian Kimberlin, Director of North American Battery Business Unit for Panasonic has graciously helped to compile answers to these frequently asked questions:

Q. What is the average shelf life of batteries?
A. Average shelf life is generally 7 years for alkaline batteries. Shelf life can vary according to battery composition.

Q. Does the quality of the battery affect product operation or only duration? In other words, is the flashlight beam strength affected or does quality only affect how long the batteries will last?
A. The quality of the battery affects both operation and duration. As an example, flashlight performance will be better and it will last longer if you use better quality batteries. Using quality batteries can also reduce the risk of leakage in consumer goods. Quality of the battery is very important and consumers should feel confident in the battery brands they purchase. Bargain batteries are not really bargains in the long run.

Q. How does cold weather affect batteries?
A. Cold weather does not generally affect battery performance. In fact certain batteries such as lithium batteries actually do better in extreme temperatures.

Q. How does hot weather affect batteries?
A. Hot temperatures are not recommended for batteries. Therefore flashlights, cameras and other battery-operated products should not be left in a vehicle in hot climates.

Q. Should batteries be stored in the refrigerator as our parents and grandparents used to do?
A. This is not recommended for today’s batteries.

Q. What is the difference between alkaline and non-alkaline batteries?
A. Alkaline and non-alkaline batteries have different compositions and vary in performance.

Alkaline batteries are widely used in consumer electronics and appliances. Panasonic’s Digital Power is the top performer in high tech electronics and appliances.

Two examples of non-alkaline batteries would be Panasonic Super Heavy Duty batteries recommended for low drain consumer goods such as radios and flashlights, and Panasonic Oxyride Extreme Power Batteries that are recommended for high drain electronics such as MP3 players and digital still cameras.

For more information about batteries follow these helpful Panasonic links:

• How Batteries Work
• How to Dispose of Batteries
• General Battery Information
• Find the Right Battery
• Panasonic Rebates & Promotions
• www.Panasonic.com
• Panasonic Customer Support