How to Dispose of Batteries

There are two main types of batteries often found in many household items.
alkaline

Single-Use Batteries


Alkaline Batteries
Alkaline batteries include AA, AAA, 9Volt and D Cell. These types of batteries are often found in flashlights, tv remote controls, children’s toys, and other items, and generally can be removed from the device. 

How to dispose of:
When alkaline batteries no longer run devices, they are safe to dispose of in the trash.   

Button-Cell Batteries
Often found in hearing aids, watches, medical devises, and calculators, these batteries are often confused as alkaline batteries.  Button cell batteries are lithium primary batteries, EPA-designated Universal Waste and should not be disposed of with trash or recycling.  

How to dispose of:
Button-cell batteries should be stored in a clear plastic bag or placed on non-conductive tape (e.g., electrical tape) for disposal. Button-cell batteries may be brought to the Department of Public Works office at 1000 Suffield Street for recycling.  Batteries will not be accepted if not properly prepared for drop off.   
Do not dispose of in any trash or recycling bin.

button batteries

Rechargeable Batteries

Often found in household items such as cell phones, lap tops, power tools, and small electronics, rechargeable batteries may be removed or permanently attached to the device.

Rechargeable battery types include: 
nickel cadmium (Ni-cd)
lithium-ion (Li-ion)
nickel-metal hydride (Ni-MH)
nickel-zinc (Ni-Zn)
small sealed lead batteries (Pb).

These types of batteries contain reactive chemicals and metals that generate electrical energy and should never go in any trash or recycling bin.

How to dispose of:
Rechargeable batteries may be recycled at Home Depot, Staples, or at the front office of the Department of Public Works (DPW), 1000 Suffield Street. Batteries brought to the DPW must have terminals or end of batteries taped and in a clear plastic bag as to reduce the risk of fire.
Do not dispose of in any trash or recycling bin.

unnamed

Before storing and transporting batteries, residents should be particularly aware of any Lithium Ion batteries that are damaged, defective or recalled (DDR), as they are hazardous and can combust violently without warning. It only takes one DDR lithium-ion battery to cause a fire, placing residents, workers and fire crews at risk.

Damaged, Defective or Recalled Batteries (DDR)

DDR Batteries
truck fire

Lithium Ion batteries are classified as DDR if they:
• Are known to be defective or recalled by the manufacturer.
• Have been exposed to heat in excess of 130 degrees Fahrenheit, including any exposure to fire.
• Are swollen, puffy, dented, punctured, deformed, or have sustained physical or mechanical damage.
• Have leaked or vented liquid or gas.
• Are discolored, corroded, or emit an order.
• Have been submerged in water for an extended period of time.
• Are known to have short circuited, been over charged, or sustained other electrical abuse.

How to dispose of:
If a battery is damaged, defective or recalled, it cannot be dropped off at the DPW. Residents should call the DPW at 821-0624 for proper drop off and disposal options. 
Do not dispose of in any trash or recycling bin.