Freequently Asked Questions - Dry Batteries

Dry Batteries

Rechargeable Batteries

General Batteries

General

Usage

Leakage

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The first letter in a battery model number denotes the type of battery, while the second represents the shape (R meaning round, for example). A battery with a model number starting with LR indicates an alkaline battery with a round shape, while CR describes a lithium battery with a round shape. Understanding what model numbers mean helps you to tell the difference between batteries, even if they appear to be cosmetically the same.

What does the code “LR03 – AAA” on my battery package mean?

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Different standards are used in other parts of the world to classify battery sizes. For example, depending on its region of sale, the same 10.5 mm x 44.5 mm battery may be labeled LR03 (the International Electrotechnical Commission [IEC] classification) or AAA (the American National Standards Institute [ANSI] classification). Many battery packages display two or more standards to indicate the battery size.

What’s the difference between alkaline and manganese batteries?

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Alkaline is the most commonly used battery type in countries such as Japan, Europe, and the United States. However, manganese batteries are the most common in other parts of the world. Let's highlight the differences between these two primary battery types:

Does Panasonic offer LR61/AAAA-sized batteries?

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Panasonic does not produce an LR61/AAAA battery at this time.

What is a 006P battery?

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The common 9 V "square" battery, first developed for use in transistor radios, is designated PP3 in many parts of the world and 006P in Japan. Specific types of PP3/006P batteries may be coded 6F22 (zinc-carbon) or 6LR61 (alkaline), for example.

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Rechargeable batteries such as eneloop are marked with a battery capacity, but dry batteries are not. Rechargeable batteries can discharge their capacity with little effect from the device in which they are used, allowing the approximate capacity to be stated. On the other hand, the capacity that can be drawn from dry batteries, such as alkaline batteries, varies depending on the device, so the battery capacity cannot be determined. This is why the battery capacity is not stated.

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Rechargeable batteries such as eneloop are marked with a battery capacity, but dry batteries are not. Rechargeable batteries can discharge their capacity with little effect from the device in which they are used, allowing the approximate capacity to be stated. On the other hand, the capacity that can be drawn from dry batteries, such as alkaline batteries, varies depending on the device, so the battery capacity cannot be determined. This is why the battery capacity is not stated. Generally, the discharge duration is stated in the device's instruction manual. Please refer to it for more information.

For Corporate Customers

The capacity of a dry battery can be determined to some extent by determining the conditions under which it will be used (current flow, on/off conditions, etc.). The following graph shows an example of OEM battery characteristics. The approximate capacity of a dry battery can be determined from the duration time shown in the graph.

Approximate Formula to Determine Battery Capacity

Discharge current x constant-current continuous discharge time = battery capacity (mAh).

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The optimal operating temperature for Panasonic primary dry batteries is between 5 °C and 45 °C. Battery performance and lifespan may be reduced in temperatures outside this range.

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An alkaline battery electrolyte is a strongly alkaline solution consisting mainly of potassium hydroxide. Manganese battery electrolyte is a mildly acidic solution mainly composed of zinc chloride or ammonium chloride. If the liquid leaks out and gets in your eyes or comes in contact with your skin, it's dangerous to leave it untreated. Please click here for recommended actions if leaked battery fluids or substances come in contact with the eyes or skin.

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The white crystals and powder that may be present on the exterior of a leaking alkaline battery is potassium carbonate, which is produced when the electrolyte (potassium hydroxide) reacts with CO₂. In this condition, the battery is no longer usable. Potassium carbonate is a potent water-soluble alkaline substance. Chemical burns can occur if it comes in contact with your skin. Please click here for recommended actions if leaked battery fluids or substances come in contact with the eyes or skin.

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There are a few possible reasons for battery leakage:

• Leakage in unused batteries
  High temperature and high humidity (which also increase oxidation risk) are the most significant factors for leakage in unused batteries. External short-circuiting due to accidental contact with a metal object or internal short-circuiting from impact are other possibilities.
  
  
• Leakage during use
  Accidental charging: Inserting batteries in the wrong terminal orientation (i.e., positive to positive) is a leading cause of battery leakage when the device is used. For example, reversing the connection of one battery in a three-battery series will cause the other two batteries to charge it, causing it to leak.
  
  
• Battery short circuit
  Internal or external short-circuiting causes the battery to spontaneously generate a high current flow. The battery may overheat and leak if the flow is not immediately interrupted. If batteries are not correctly installed, short-circuit may occur, resulting in leakage even if the device is switched off. If a metal object contacts the battery, it connects the positive and negative terminals, generating high currents, overheating, and leakage. Take care to avoid battery contact with metal objects when inserting them.
  
  
• Using a mix of different batteries
  Avoid mixing batteries of different capacities, types, brands, ages, or conditions in your device. This is because battery capacity differs between types, brands, and even production batches of the same battery type and brand. That difference can increase dramatically during usage, leading to over-discharge and leakage.
  
  
• Leaving batteries in your equipment
  When batteries are left in equipment that isn't switched off or left for extended periods in a device that isn't being used, there is a chance the batteries will deplete and over-discharge, which can cause battery leakage.

General

Malfunction

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Our rechargeable batteries are pre-charged at the factory but may not be at 100 % capacity when they reach you, especially if you don't use them for a long time after purchase. It's a good idea to pop your new batteries into the charger before using them. Selected Panasonic chargers have a Refresh Function that fully discharges and recharges the battery, which can be useful if you have left your batteries unused for a very long period.

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Do not use Ni-MH rechargeable batteries in devices with an airtight battery compartment, such as a waterproof torch or underwater light. If a Ni-MH battery is over-discharged, hydrogen gas is released from the battery. This is not a problem in conventional equipment because the hydrogen diffuses immediately. However, in devices where the battery compartment is sealed, hydrogen gas cannot diffuse, creating a risk of explosion if the gas ignites.

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Memory effect is a phenomenon seen in Ni-Cd and Ni-MH rechargeable batteries that causes a decrease in their maximum voltage despite maintaining the same overall battery power. This occurs when batteries are repeatedly charged without being fully depleted, leading the battery to "remember" its reduced usage capacity. Consequently, the voltage may drop prematurely during usage, even when the battery is fully charged. Since eneloop batteries have a higher and more stable discharge voltage than conventional Ni-MH batteries, a sufficient voltage is maintained even if the memory effect occurs. You can recharge as needed without worry. Furthermore, selected Panasonic battery chargers also feature a Refresh Function that discharges and recharges the battery to restore its performance.

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This function erases the memory effect from affected rechargeable batteries. Equipped to select Panasonic battery chargers, Refresh Function discharges and recharges the battery to restore its performance.

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Heat generation during charging is not abnormal. However, how much a charger heats up depends on:

• The type of charger that is used (quick charging versus regular charging)
• Whether or not a protection cover is being used
• The initial capacity of the batteries being charged
• The remaining capacity of the batteries
• The degree of battery deterioration and other factors.

Although the surface temperature of batteries could reach 55 °C (hot to the touch) while being charged, this is no cause for concern. Our chargers are fitted with functions to shut off charging or control the temperature of the batteries immediately when a potential risk is detected.

General

Usage

Malfunction

Leakage

Safety

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The "best before" date printed on dry batteries indicates the approximate date until we assure optimal performance. After that time, the expected performance from an unused state will very slowly degrade. This limitation does not apply to rechargeable batteries, as they can be used anytime if they are electrically charged. For reference, the product's manufacture date is printed on rechargeable and dry battery packages.

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There are two possible reasons. Firstly, check that the positive (+) and negative (-) battery poles were measured with the corresponding ends of the voltmeter. If the connection is reversed, the voltmeter will display a negative voltage. Secondly, your battery may have suffered polarity reversal, which sometimes occurs when two or more batteries are connected in series. The graphic shows two batteries connected in series. Battery B has less capacity than Battery A, and the discharge rate from Battery B becomes higher than from Battery A. Current is forced out of Battery B, its voltage sinks below zero, and polarity reversal occurs. This is more likely to happen when batteries of the same size but of a different type, age, and condition are used together and can result in battery leakage. It's always best to use new batteries purchased at the same time.

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No, battery weight doesn't change during use.

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Batteries produce electricity by means of a chemical reaction. Even in an unused state, the chemicals inside the battery degrade gradually over time. The "best before" or expiration date indicates the date until we assure optimal battery performance and quality.

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Select Panasonic batteries make a No Mercury Added claim, meaning no mercury is added to the battery during production.

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Batteries produce electricity by means of a chemical reaction. Even when the battery electrodes aren't connected, chemicals inside the battery can interact and cause a minimal reaction, which reduces the stored charge and decreases battery capacity little by little. This phenomenon is called self-discharge.

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Self-discharge results from chemicals inside the battery reacting with each other, and the magnitude of that reaction is highly dependent on storage conditions and temperature. High temperatures will increase the rate of self-discharge, so be careful to store your batteries in a cool, dry place out of direct sunlight.

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Observe the laws and regulations governing battery disposal applicable in your area. Some electronics stores, supermarkets, and department stores offer battery drop-off boxes, where spent batteries are collected and the materials recycled or safely disposed of. Battery terminals should be isolated with tape before disposal.

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Do not charge alkaline or zinc-carbon dry batteries in a battery charger. Doing so risks battery rupture, leakage, fire, or explosion. Panasonic offers Panasonic Rechargeable and eneloop batteries, which can be safely charged in a manufacturer-approved charger.

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Dry batteries have a 1.5 V nominal voltage, slightly higher than the actual working voltage required by the device. Rechargeable batteries such as eneloop have a nominal voltage of 1.2 V. Although the voltage of rechargeable batteries is less than dry batteries, they provide similar performance. Generally speaking, rechargeable Ni-MH batteries can be used wherever equivalent dry batteries are used. However, be aware of exceptional cases where only dry batteries can be used, such as devices with airtight battery compartments.

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Consider the following storage tips to enjoy the best performance from your batteries:

• Store the batteries in their original packaging. That way, you can keep batteries of the same manufacturing date together (so you don't accidentally use different batteries in the same device) while keeping track of their expiration date. Storing batteries in their original packaging also helps to prevent oxidization and short-circuits from accidental contact with metal objects.
• Store the batteries at room temperature or in a cool, dry environment, and avoid areas of high humidity or direct sunlight. The ideal storage temperature range is 10–25 °C.
• Storage in temperatures higher than 35 °C should be avoided, as it can influence the self-discharge rate.
• In theory, cold storage temperatures are good for the battery. However, if stored in a chilled area, such as a refrigerator, there is a high risk that condensation will form, leading to possible battery malfunction.
• If your batteries are stored in a cold environment, they should ideally be left briefly to reach room temperature before use. Do not heat the battery.

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It is always best to store batteries at low temperatures in low humidity. However, storing batteries in the refrigerator should be avoided, as condensation will form on the battery surfaces as soon as they are removed, potentially causing self-discharge and rust.

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Batteries are chemical products that internally undergo certain chemical changes over time. Due to this process, some batteries slightly discharge themselves during storage. This phenomenon is highly dependent on storage conditions. Storage in temperatures over 35 °C will increase the rate of self-discharge.

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The battery's discharge duration depends on the device used. Even if the same amount of electricity is contained in a battery, the battery life differs between devices that use a lot of electricity and those that use only a little. Battery life also depends on the type of battery. Generally, the discharge duration is stated in the device's instruction manual. Please refer to it for more information.

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Over-discharge refers to batteries discharged beyond their normal discharge point, leading to potential issues such as leakage. Two scenarios can cause over-discharge:

1. When a battery continues to discharge even after reaching its normal discharge point, it becomes over-discharged, and this condition may result in leakage. Removing the battery as soon as it is fully depleted is strongly advised to prevent this.
2. Leaving an over-discharged battery unused for an extended period may also lead to leakage. Additionally, some devices may draw a weak current even when the switch is turned off. If you notice that the device's operation is unstable, it might indicate that the batteries are drained, and you should replace them promptly. To avoid over-discharge, replacing the batteries in your equipment regularly is advisable.

Please click here for recommended actions if leaked battery fluids or substances come in contact with the eyes or skin.

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If the battery is deformed due to excessive shock, the materials inside the battery may short-circuit and cause a sudden flow of high current, resulting in heat, rupture, or ignition. If the battery becomes too hot, it may cause liquid leakage. Be careful not to subject the battery to excessive shock. Please click here for recommended actions if leaked battery fluids or substances come in contact with the eyes or skin.

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Please consider the following information if you are planning to use batteries in hot, humid conditions:

Battery Storage

1. Store the battery in locations with minimal temperature fluctuations and away from direct sunlight. The preferred storage temperature range is between 10 °C and 25 °C.
2. Avoid storing the battery at temperatures exceeding 35 °C, as prolonged exposure to high temperatures can degrade its performance.
3. High humidity conditions can lead to the formation of condensation on the battery, potentially causing a short circuit. Furthermore, if a battery has been stored in a cold environment and is suddenly exposed to high temperatures, condensation may form on its surface, leading to rust and potential short circuits.

Storage in Vehicles

1. Due to the chemical nature of batteries, avoid exposing them to excessive heat or humidity.
2. Avoid storing batteries in places with high temperatures, high humidity, or direct sunlight in your car. Such conditions can shorten the battery's lifespan and lead to rupture or liquid leakage.

Please click here for recommended actions if leaked battery fluids or substances come in contact with the eyes or skin.

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When to replace the battery for different types of devices:

Mini-bulb Flashlights or Motor-driven Devices
Replace the battery immediately if the device stops working, such as when the light turns off or the motor stops running. Consider replacing the battery if you notice the device becoming sluggish.

Remote Controllers
If you experience sluggish operation or notice a shortened reachable distance, it indicates the battery is losing capacity. Replace the battery as soon as you observe these symptoms.

For Digital Devices (e.g., LEDs)
These devices can operate for extended periods with minimal power consumption. LED lights can remain brightly illuminated until the battery capacity is nearly depleted. As these devices do not gradually dim like mini bulbs, it's challenging to determine when to replace the batteries. We recommend checking the standard usage time stated on the device and replacing batteries periodically, for example, at the end of each year. Please click here for precautions regarding battery replacement.

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No, they're not. Since RoHS refers to regulations on using certain hazardous substances in electrical and electronic devices, it does not apply to dry and rechargeable batteries.

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Generally speaking, chemical reactions weaken in cold temperatures, and battery lifespan can fall by as much as 50–90 %. However, lithium, Ni-MH, and Ni-Cd batteries are all stronger in cold temperatures than alternative types and are suited to cameras and other outdoor devices.

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Do not mix batteries of different capacities, types, brands, or ages. Also, never use a mix of dry and rechargeable batteries in your device except when the manufacturer explicitly permits it. Finally, when using rechargeable batteries, ensure that all batteries are charged together at the same time. Replace all the batteries used for the device with the new ones simultaneously. If you mix used batteries and new batteries together, it may cause leakage. Always replace all batteries with new ones.

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Do not mix batteries of different capacities, types, brands, or ages. Doing so may result in battery leaks from over-discharge. Also, never use a mix of dry and rechargeable batteries in your device except when the manufacturer explicitly permits it. Finally, when using rechargeable batteries, ensure all batteries are recharged simultaneously. Please click here for precautions regarding battery replacement.

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Panasonic recommends that you avoid mixing batteries of different capacities, types, brands, ages, or conditions in your device. This is because battery capacity differs between types and brands. That difference can increase dramatically during usage, leading to over-discharge and leakage. In Graph A, you can see how the difference in the capacity of the two battery types increases dramatically towards the end of life, increasing the chance of leakage. Graph B shows how quickly battery capacity divergence can occur when a mix of new and lightly used batteries of the same type and brand are used. The capacity difference between used and unused batteries grows even more pronounced, causing the most depleted battery to over-discharge and potentially leak. Always use new batteries purchased at the same time in your device, and don't mix used and unused batteries.

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Use the battery type recommended in your device's manual to enjoy a longer life with a reduced chance of malfunction.

◎ = Recommended　○ = Suitable　△ = Not Recommended

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There are several possible reasons why a battery may become hot:

1. External short-circuit: When the battery accidentally comes into contact with a metal object, it can create a connection between the positive and negative electrodes. This can lead to rapid discharge, heating, or even an explosion.
2. Internal short-circuit: Impact shock, like dropping the battery onto a hard surface, may cause an internal short-circuit. This can result in rapid discharge, overheating, or explosion.
3. Improper usage: Inserting batteries in the wrong orientation can cause a short circuit, force-charging, and overheating. If you notice your battery becoming hot due to incorrect installation, safely remove it and allow it to cool before disposal. Do not attempt to use the battery again.

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While batteries are manufactured according to IEC standards, there may still be slight differences in dimensions from brand to brand. If your batteries do not fit in the battery compartment, do not force them. Consult the device specification or contact the manufacturer for advice on the battery type and brand most suitable for the device.

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After checking for a solution on the device side, open the battery compartment and review the following:

1. Check that the batteries are inserted with the correct terminal orientation.
2. Check the battery and device terminals for dust, grease, or grime. Even a small amount can prevent proper contact.
3. Check that the battery compartment terminals and battery terminals are in contact. While most battery compartments are designed to suit IEC battery dimensions, some aren't, and loose-fitting batteries may compromise proper contact.

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There are several reasons why this might happen. One possibility is a difference in battery types. Manganese and alkaline dry batteries have different capacities, which may explain a reduced lifespan depending on the application. There are also different grades of alkaline batteries, with premium alkaline offering extended performance, especially in high-drain applications. If your device was shipped with a premium battery but was replaced with a standard one, this could explain the performance gap.

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If someone is exposed to leaked battery fluids or substances, we recommend taking the following precautions to avoid the risk of chemical burns or blindness:

1. For Alkaline Battery Electrolytes

If the liquid gets in the eyes or skin:

• An alkaline battery electrolyte is a strongly alkaline solution consisting mainly of potassium hydroxide. If the leaked liquid gets in the eyes, avoid rubbing them. Wash them with a large amount of clean water. Seek medical advice as soon as possible.
• If the liquid comes into contact with the skin, wash the affected area immediately with a large amount of clean water to prevent chemical burns.

2. For Manganese Battery Electrolytes:

If the liquid gets in the eyes or skin:

• Manganese battery electrolyte is a mildly acidic solution consisting mainly of zinc chloride or ammonium chloride. If the leaked liquid gets in the eyes, avoid rubbing them. Wash them with a large amount of clean water. Seek medical advice as soon as possible.
• If the liquid comes into contact with the skin, wash the affected area immediately with a large amount of clean water to prevent chemical burns.

If the liquid gets on clothes:

• Remove the affected clothing to prevent the liquid from touching the skin.
• Rinse the affected area with a large amount of water.
• Wash the clothes as usual. However, discoloration or deterioration may occur in the affected area, depending on the clothing materials.

If the liquid gets on furniture or floors:

• Wipe the affected furniture or floor well with dampened tissue paper, wipes, or towels.
• Avoid letting the battery liquid come into contact with your hands, as it may cause chemical burns. If possible, use vinyl gloves or other waterproof gloves while cleaning.
• If the liquid does touch your hands, wash them immediately with a large amount of water.
• Depending on the furniture and flooring material, discoloration may occur on the surface.

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If you suspect a battery has been washed with your clothes inside the washing machine, it is no longer fit to use. It's likely that the battery has short-circuited or is oxidating. Dispose of the battery, and rewash your clothes to be safe.

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Devices that use three or more batteries may work even if one is inserted with the positive and negative terminals reversed (reversed connection). This may cause the batteries to be charged, causing liquid leakage or rupture. Be sure to install the positive and negative sides correctly. Please click here for recommended actions if leaked battery fluids or substances come in contact with the eyes or skin.