Got a used car battery? Here’s what to do with it

The disposal of batteries in SA is a key concern particularly when it comes to the recycling of lead acid batteries.

First National Battery Automotive marketing director Andrew Webb said: “Importers of lead acid batteries don’t always share our sense of responsibility toward protecting the environment – and for this reason our Scrap Battery division is committed to recycling all scrap lead acid batteries across the country."

Not your regular refuse
Discarding your used car battery in domestic refuse isn’t the best way to get rid of it. The lead, plastic and acid in the batteries can be extremely harmful to the environment if not properly disposed of correctly. 

Recycling of lead acid batteries is vital to sustainability, waste management and reducing the risk and impact of pollution to our habitat.

Recognise when it’s replacement time

The following warning signs can suggest the need to replace your car’s battery: 
•Your engine is slow  to start
•The battery light on the panel indicates battery discharge for extended periods
•Your battery seems to lose power quickly in cold or extended starts
•Your headlights dim at idle

Webb said: "Any of these signals can indicate early signs of battery failure. It’s always best to contact your nearest Battery Centre to have your battery and vehicle electrical system tested for free by a battery specialist and get a definitive diagnosis.

“Our 120 Battery Centre franchises across the country are drop-off points for lead acid batteries that need to be recycled. For large volumes of scrap batteries, make use of Scrap Battery’s free collection service by contacting Battery Centre or call toll free 0800 333 462 for assistance." 

Webb added: Through recycling with us, when you purchase a new battery on the one for one exchange basis you will not pay the lead surcharge that’s usually added to the purchase price.Scrap Battery buys used lead acid batteries based on a number of variables, and we pride ourselves on offering competitive prices per kilo."

Scrap Battery collects scrap sealed lead acid batteries as well as lead acid vehicle starter and industrial batteries.

Other rechargeable battery types (as used in cell phones, laptops, calculators and toys) can be placed in collection bins currently offered by major retailers in South Africa.

“More than 90% of all scrap batteries in SA are recycled", said Webb. "Battery Centre, will continue to educate and encourage South Africans to recycle used lead acid batteries."

For more information on Scrap Battery and to see if you are eligible for Scrap Batteries free collection service, visit their website.