| | | | Batteries provide a reliable and inexpensive mobile power source. There are an increasing number of batteries disposed of in the United States each year. Currently, there are four types of commonly used household batteries. Most are potentially harmful to human health and the environment if not disposed of properly. Almost all types of batteries can be recycled.  Lead-Acid Automobile Batteries – Contain lead and sulfuric acid. These batteries are generally found in cars, motorcycles, boats and other vehicles. Currently, 90 percent of the nation’s automobile lead-acid batteries are recycled. To recycle a lead-acid battery, return it to the auto parts store you bought it from, arrange for a free household hazardous waste pickup by calling 240-314-8568 or drop it off at the Montgomery County Transfer Station (16101 Frederick Road, Derwood).
- Alkaline and Zinc-Carbon Batteries – Traditional or standard, one-time-use, dry-cell batteries (9-volt, D, C, AA, AAA) that power items like flashlights, remote controls, toys and appliances. Since these batteries are one-time use, they are not as economical as their rechargeable counterparts. In addition, they are the hardest batteries to recycle. The City recommends buying rechargeable dry-cell batteries whenever possible. If you need to use alkaline or zinc-carbon batteries, throw them in the trash at the end of their useful life.
- Rechargeable Batteries – Used in electronic equipment and as dry cells. Rechargeable batteries include nickel-cadmium (Ni-CD), nickel metal hydride, lithium ion, and small-sealed lead-acid. As their name implies, they can be recharged numerous times, extending their use and making them more economical compared to alkaline or zinc-carbon batteries. Rechargeable batteries are easily recyclable. Recycle rechargeable batteries by dropping them in battery recycling bins at area businesses or taking them to the Montgomery County Transfer Station (16101 Frederick Road, Derwood). They can also be picked up as part of the City's Hazardous Household Waste collection.
- Button-Cell Batteries – Found in items such as watches and hearing aids. These batteries may contain mercury, silver, cadmium, lithium or other heavy metals. Remember to ask the retailer what the battery is made of. If it contains one of the heavy metals listed above, recycle it by returning it to the retail store where it was purchased. These stores are required by law to take back the batteries and recycle them free of charge. Other alternatives include dropping them off at the Montgomery County Transfer Station (16101 Frederick Road, Derwood) or arrange for a free Hazardous Household Waste collection in the City. Call 240-314-8568. Drop off batteries when you are making a trip to the Transfer Station for other purposes or collect 10 or more before calling the City for a pickup.
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