Even though your laptop batteries are rechargeable, they can die out eventually. And once that happens, you can’t just toss the laptop battery with the rest of your garbage; you need to dispose of it properly, even though you might find it a bit of a hassle. If you don’t, it can become an environmental hazard.
To dispose of laptop batteries, you need to detach them from your laptop, seal the ends, keep them away from reactants, and dispose of them at local recycling stations, retailers, online recycling companies, or manufacturer mail recycling services.
Here’s everything you need to know about the proper and safe disposal of your laptop batteries.
How To Dispose of Laptop Batteries
Safely disposing of your laptop’s batteries is crucial so that the chemicals harm no one inside them. Laptop batteries contain lithium, which can be reactive and pose a fire hazard if not disposed of properly.
And since laptop batteries are an environmental hazard, throwing them away in the trash is also illegal in some states. Improper disposal means you’ll have to pay heavy fines. Here’s a step-by-step guide on safely disposing of laptop batteries to prevent that from happening.
Step #1: Make Sure the Battery Is Dead
Only consider disposing of the battery if it’s no longer working. In some cases, your battery might malfunction, and you can get that fixed instead of replacing it entirely. So before you spend money on a new battery, ask an expert to ensure that the battery has run its course and if you should dispose of it.
Step #2: Remove the Battery
Carefully detach the dead battery from the laptop (even if it is dead), so you can send it to a recycling facility. To do so, open the buttons/latches underneath your laptop. If your laptop has a screwed-in battery, you might have to put in a little more effort.
Step #3: Seal the Battery
Damaged or dead batteries can leak if they’re not properly handled. To prevent leaks and avoid accidents, it’s better to seal both ends of the battery with masking tape. For further safety, you can put the battery in a sealed bag so that it doesn’t react with other elements like air or combustible items like cardboard or paper.
If you have multiple batteries, keep them away from each other. Ideally, you should store the batteries in a dark and cool spot away from other things.
Step #4: Choose the Right Recycling Center
Now that your laptop battery is ready to be disposed of, the last thing you need to do is choose where you want to send it to be recycled. You can choose from the following options:
Option #1: Local Recycling Stations
You can find a local recycling service offered by your district or the government that collects items such as laptop batteries for proper disposal. You can drop off the dead batteries at recycling stations in malls, public libraries, community centers, etc.
You can also search for local recycling services online and see if they take laptop batteries. If they do, schedule a time with them.
Option #2: Retailers
Many US states consider laptops hazardous waste and have made it mandatory to dispose of them. One easy way to do that is to send the dead batteries back to the retailer you bought them from, and they’ll send them for recycling.
In some states, the law requires retailers to accept dead batteries, even if you didn’t initially buy from them. Many local chains like Home Depot and Best Buy also accept old batteries at their recycling stations.
Option #3: Manufacturer Mail Recycling Service
If you don’t have any retailers near you that accept dead batteries, you can get in touch with your laptop’s manufacturer and put in a request for a mail recycling service.
Many manufacturers like Apple and IBM offer such services in major US states. Others—such as Acer, Lenovo, and HP—partner with local recycling companies and stores to provide similar services. All you need to do is schedule a pick-up time. Also, make sure that you get details regarding the handling and packaging of used batteries.
Option #4: Online Recycling Companies
You can also contact online recycling companies that recycle electronic goods to dispose of dead batteries. Remember that since all these services are online, you might have to pay some fee for item collection, but you can also find some non-profit recycling companies.
And like with other options, make sure you schedule an appointment and know how to pack the batteries appropriately.
Conclusion
Disposing a dead laptop battery properly is essential, especially since the lithium inside can be dangerous. With the tips mentioned above, you can safely and properly send in your laptop batteries for proper recycling and disposal. Ensure you know how to seal and pack it properly to avoid accidents.
