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The average life span of a battery is only two or three years, and that’s before it has to be replaced.
That means batteries will wear out or break down before their normal lifespan is up.
Well, it’s time to find out the scrap price for old batteries because they’re not completely useless as you might have initially thought.
Car batteries, for example, are composed of lead and acid.
There’s lead in the cells, which can be dangerous if they’re not handled correctly.
Car batteries can be recycled and reused as they have metals that can be extracted from them.
What is the price of scrap batteries?
Instead of throwing away your old batteries or using the Home depot battery recycling program, you can cash in on them. Most batteries contain certain metals including lead, nickel and cobalt.
| Material | Percentage | Recyclable | Price Range per kg in Scrap |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lead | 60-80% | Yes | $0.50-$1.50 |
| Plastic | 5-10% | Yes | $0.50-$1.50 |
| Acid | 20-30% | No | N/A |
| Copper | trace amounts | Yes | $3.50-$4.50 |
These can be extracted from old batteries and be used for production of new products.
This process can also be used to manufacture new car batteries.
The price of scrap batteries depends on the type of battery and the chemicals within it.
Battery manufacturers and recyclers will usually take old batteries for metal recovery.
For instance, approximately 70% of the weight of lead acid batteries comprises of reusable lead.
For that reason, how much your scrap batteries are worth relies on the kinds of metals they contain.
There isn’t a fixed price for your old batteries because the value of each is different.
You can do some research on the internet to find out the price of scrap batteries.
You’ll have to be thorough in your research and make sure the information is accurate.
With that said, recyclers and scrap yard programs will pay for your old batteries per pound.
The more you have, the more they will pay you. Generally, the scrap price for old batteries is often $0.22 per pound.
This price is subject to change depending on the type of battery and market conditions.
Some scrap yards might give you even more money if your old batteries contain valuable metals.
It all depends on the availability of these materials at the specific time and place you’re recycling your batteries at.
You can have any kind of old car battery and expect to get a decent price for it at a scrap yard or company that sells used car parts and accessories.
What materials are recycled?
As mentioned, most batteries are made up of lead, zinc, nickel, cobalt, manganese and other metals that can be extracted from them for recycling.
Therefore, if you have old car batteries and don’t want to throw them out or use them again, you can go to a scrap yard and allow them to recycle your batteries.
The lead is recovered and sold to manufacturers of batteries and other industrial products.
The remaining metals are removed and sold for recycling.
For instance, the nickel is used in the production of steel, stainless steel, copper and other alloys.
The purpose of recycling automotive batteries is to save natural resources and save the environment.
Recycling old batteries has less impact on the environment than manufacturing new ones from scratch and requires less energy in the process.
Whether you have any old car batteries, there is a good chance that you can recycle them for some cash.
There are several places where you can bring your dead or used up car battery including scrap yards, and companies that buy old batteries.
How to dispose of old batteries the right way
Some batteries contain lead, which is extremely toxic and heavy.
In fact, some recycling companies will not accept these batteries for recycling because the process can be dangerous for those involved.
Before you even think about going to a scrap yard, it’s ideal that you call first to find out if they accept your type of battery.
Below are a few safety tips for disposing of old and used batteries;
Put individual batteries in plastic bags before placing them in storage containers.
Also use ducts tape to tape the terminals.
Even when a battery is dead or completely used-up, it might still contain some residual charge that can potentially cause a fire.
Label your storage containers and put them in a secure place.
The hazardous materials section of your storage area needs to be kept closed at all times
- Ensure all batteries are kept in a cool and dry place. Excessively hot environments can cause leakage, which can lead to short circuits and increase the risk of fire.
- Place swollen or bulging batteries in non-flammable materials such as cat litter or sand to protect them from short circuits. Don’t toss these batteries in the trash. If possible, it’s best to store batteries in a different location from other hazardous materials.
- Recycle all old batteries every six months. Otherwise, they can corrode and short-circuit.
- Don’t put batteries in the recycling bin as it could be an accident waiting to happen. You’ll be potentially endangering people at the recycling centers and even the sanitation workers.
Final Thoughts
To conclude, if you have any old batteries lying around, don’t just throw them in the trash.
The scrap price for old batteries is not that bad and they can be recycled or reused.
It’s much better to recycle old batteries than discard them.
That way, you can save the environment and natural resources while making some cash in the process.
If you don’t want to go to a scrap yard because you’re concerned about their proper disposal methods or fear getting low prices for your old batteries, it’s better to look for other safe alternatives.
FAQs
Does Walmart buy old batteries?
While Walmart stores won’t buy your old batteries, they do have the Walmart recycling program where you can bring your used batteries to be recycled.
If you have any old batteries at home, you can drop them off at the store for free.
Who gives the most for used car batteries?
Auto shops and car mechanics will give the most for your old batteries. They are best placed to dispose of the batteries and recover all the valuable metals from them.
How to properly dispose of car batteries
Car batteries can be recycled by taking them to a retailer or recycling facility, or by contacting a hazardous waste disposal company. Do not dispose of car batteries in the trash or leave them in the open. Properly prepare the battery for transport by sealing acid leaks, protecting the terminals, and storing it in a sturdy container.
