A to Z Guide: Batteries

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A to Z Guide

Recycle batteries at the District’s Transfer Station.  These batteries should NEVER be thrown in the trash:

Lithium (non-rechargeable) batteries are commonly used in cameras.  They are potentially reactive and toxic.

Button cells are the small, disc-shaped batteries commonly used in hearing aids, medical devices, watches, and calculators.  These usually contain mercury or silver and are therefore considered toxic.  Many pharmacies, nursing homes, audiologists, and hearing aid dispensers, also offer free recycling of button cell batteries.

Lead acid/Wet cell batteries found in cars, motorcycles, and boats contain toxic materials (a $1.00 fee applies).

Rechargeable batteries contain toxic material and must be kept out of the trash:

  • Nickel cadmium (Ni-Cd, or Ni-Cad) batteries are found in power tools, cordless phones, and many other rechargeable appliances.
  • Nickel metal hydride (NiMH) batteries are used in computers, cell phones, camcorders, and other portable devices.
  • Lithium ion batteries are used in cell phones and computers.
  • Small sealed lead acid batteries are found in phone systems, emergency lighting, and battery backup systems.  They’re usually rectangular and heavy, with wires sticking out.

Regular household non-rechargeable alkaline batteries and carbon-zinc batteries are safe to throw in the trash. When spent, these products do not pose a hazard to the environment.  Alkaline batteries will always have the word “alkaline” printed on them.  Carbon-zinc batteries may say “heavy duty”or “general purpose.”  Please check your batteries carefully.  If you aren’t sure, then bring them in to the Transfer Station and we’ll sort them for you.