HELOISE Update is given on caring for batteries

Dear Readers: Recently, a question came in about alkaline batteries and if storing them in the refrigerator helps prolong their life. After some new research, here are an update and some helpful battery-care tips from a leading manufacturer:
U Use the correct size and type of battery specified by the manufacturer of your device.
U Keep battery contact surfaces and battery compartment contacts clean by rubbing them with a clean pencil eraser or a rough cloth each time you replace the batteries.
U Remove batteries from a device when it is not expected to be in use for several months or when placing in storage.
U Remove batteries from equipment while it is being powered by household (AC) current.
U Make sure that you insert batteries into your device properly, with the (+) and (-) terminals aligned correctly. Caution: Some equipment using more than three batteries might appear to work properly even if one battery is inserted incorrectly.
U Store alkaline batteries in a dry place at normal room temperature. It's best not to refrigerate batteries. This will not make them last longer, unless the environment includes extreme heat conditions for a long time. Even then, the amount of "juice" saved is very minimal, anywhere from 1/2 percent to 1 1/2 percent of the regular life of the battery that is stored under "normal" conditions. Heloise
FYI: Also, don't store batteries in extreme heat or cold. Keep them handy in a drawer, not in a hot/cold garage, cabin or summer place, where temperatures can fluctuate.
Don't keep loose batteries in your purse, where they can come into contact with coins, etc. This could damage the batteries.
Do be sure that you only recharge batteries that are specifically manufactured for that process.
Lastly, most battery packages have a "sell by" or "best used by" date on them. So, check to see what their shelf life is before buying.
Dear Heloise: Please alert your readers that automatic garage-door openers should be plugged into surge protectors! During a recent storm, when our electricity was flickering on and off, our door opened itself. This is the first time it has happened in the 12 years we have had the opener, and I am so glad we were at home and noticed it. Anita Wolf, Via E-mail
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