How to Recycle Lead Acid Batteries

Once your batteries have reached the end of their life, you need to recycle them—after all, batteries are full of dangerous gases and harsh chemicals that can cause burns, spark fires and even explode when not handled correctly.

Following battery handling safety procedures in Jefferson, WI can be the difference between injury and a quick, easy recycling process. Here’s how to safely recycle your lead acid batteries, and why it’s so important.

Why do I need to recycle my lead acid batteries?

Lead acid batteries are used in heavy-duty applications, like powering cars, boats, buses, industrial equipment and more. They’re also used by utility companies to prevent power outages and handle additional strain on demand, used as backup generators and more. These powerful, rechargeable batteries have a multitude of uses, but they also need to be handled carefully.

This type of battery contains lead and sulfuric acid, both of which are quite dangerous to humans. Over time, the charging plates in the battery deteriorate, making it harder for the battery to hold a charge. At that point, it’s necessary to recycle the battery—never just throw it out, as the chemicals can seep into the ground and contaminate the groundwater supply.

How do I recycle lead acid batteries?

Batteries are usually comprised of a housing (in this case, a plastic called polypropylene, which has an extremely high heat tolerance), charging plates and battery acid. Lead acid batteries are recycled by removing the dangerous chemicals, then crushing the rest of the components and separating them to be recycled into other plastic and lead products. In fact, about 80 percent of each battery you purchase is made from recycled materials. Not only is it important to recycle batteries to protect yourself and the environment, but you’ll contribute to sustainability when purchasing a new one.

Most, if not all states have strict regulations regarding lead acid battery recycling—and in turn, they try to make the process as easy as possible by working with manufacturers and retailers to provide safe recycling services. Businesses like Remis Power Systems Inc. accept batteries and then deliver them to the recyclers, ensuring that the contents stay safe and stable until they can be removed and recycled.

When you need a battery recycled, bring it to one of our three Remis Power Systems Inc. locations. We’ll take the battery for you, make sure it’s recycled properly and issue you a certificate of responsible destruction for your business or home records. That way, you’re ensured a safe, easy and environmentally-responsible outcome.

Other options for lead acid battery recycling in Jefferson, WI include other battery retailers and local hazardous waste facilities. Be sure when you remove your lead acid battery that it is not leaking—if it is, call your local battery retailer and ask about safe handling procedures.

When you’re ready to purchase new batteries or recycle your old ones, reach out to the team at Remis Power Systems Inc. today. We carry industrial batteries for all kinds of equipment and applications, and look forward to assisting you soon.

Categorised in: Battery Recycling and Disposal

This post was written by Writer