Batteries

Classic alkaline batteries are the most common type used in household electronics. These come in a range of sizes, the most common of which are AA and AAA batteries. For more power and longer battery life, try replacing your regular alkaline batteries with lithium AA or AAA batteries. You can also find rechargeable versions of AA and AAA batteries. NiMH, or nickel metal hydride, batteries and lithium ion batteries are two common types of rechargeable batteries. 

Packs containing two, four or eight AA batteries let you easily replace the batteries in most household electronics. Larger packs of 16 or 24 batteries let you stock up for frequent battery changes. Stocking up on large battery packs is essential for households with a lot of kids' toys, which tend to require battery replacements on a regular basis.

Household devices often specify AA or AAA batteries, and the main difference between these two is the size. AA batteries are larger than AAA batteries, both in length and width. Because of their larger size, AA batteries can store more energy, so they tend to be used in gadgets, devices and toys that are larger than those requiring AAA batteries.

When comparing household batteries, the larger the letter, the larger the size of the actual battery and its capacity. So C batteries and D batteries are larger than either A type. Another common style of battery is the 9V battery, which is used in some smoke alarms, wall clocks and walkie-talkies.

Button cell batteries, designed for small, portable electronics, have become more common as households adopt smaller gadgets. These small, round batteries include watch batteries as well as batteries designed to power small toys, compact alarm clocks, LED flashlights and car key fobs. Specialty medical devices, such as hearing aids, may take specific batteries designed for those devices.

When it comes to safety, it's important to understand how to use and store your batteries properly. Old alkaline batteries can explode, and some types can even start a fire. Make sure you store all batteries away from metal objects and keep them in their original package until they're ready to use whenever possible. Never heat, crush, or puncture a battery, and when it has reached its full lifespan, safely and quickly dispose of it.