Procell Constant C (PC1400) Alkaline Battery

The Duracell Procell Constant C (PC1400) is a professional-grade, non-rechargeable C-size alkaline battery designed to deliver steady power in constant, low-to-moderate drain devices. It’s suited for facility maintenance, hospitality, safety gear, and general industrial use where predictable performance and long storage life matter.

Key Specs

Chemistry	Alkaline (zinc–manganese dioxide)
Nominal Voltage	1.5 V
Size / Format	C size (ANSI 14A), IEC LR14; commonly cross-referenced as MN1400
Operating Temp (typ.)	Approximately -4°F to 130°F (-20°C to 54°C), performance declines at extremes
Shelf Life	Manufacturer-rated up to 10 years when stored properly
Rechargeable	No (primary cell)
Mercury	Mercury-free design

Best For

• Low-to-moderate drain devices: LED flashlights/lanterns on low or medium, portable radios, test instruments, remotes, timers, thermostats, and sensors.
• Organizations that buy in bulk and need long, dependable storage life with date-coded inventory.

When to Choose It vs. Alternatives

• Choose PC1400 if your device draws under roughly 300 mA continuously or is used intermittently throughout a shift.
• Consider Procell Intense C or quality NiMH rechargeable C cells for frequent, high-drain use (e.g., high-output lanterns or motorized equipment).
• If you expect operation in very cold environments below -4°F (-20°C), consult your device manual—some applications may require specialized chemistries.
• Do not substitute 3.6 V lithium C (e.g., ER26500) for 1.5 V devices—those are different chemistries and voltages.

Estimated Runtimes (Planning Guide)

Actual runtime varies by device design, discharge rate, cutoff voltage, and temperature. Estimates below are per cell:

• LED flashlight on low (~100 mA): roughly 35–70 hours.
• Portable lantern on medium (~250–300 mA): roughly 10–25 hours.
• Environmental sensor averaging ~5 mA: roughly 1.5–3 months.

Note: Devices that use two or more C cells in series increase voltage, not capacity; runtime is typically similar to a single cell at the same load, adjusted for device efficiency.

Compatibility and Cross-References

• Replaces: C, LR14 (IEC), 14A (ANSI), MN1400; also cross-listed by some brands as E93/814.
• Check your device for “C” or “LR14” marking and observe polarity.

Handling, Storage, and Safety

• Store cool, dry, and at stable room temperature (ideally 59–77°F / 15–25°C). Avoid heat, freezing, and humidity.
• Keep in original packaging until use. Rotate stock first-in, first-out using date codes.
• Do not mix old and new batteries or different brands/chemistries in the same device.
• Insert with correct polarity. Remove batteries from devices stored long-term.
• Do not recharge, short, crush, or incinerate. Follow local regulations for disposal; recycling options vary by region.

Procurement Notes

• Often supplied in bulk, date-coded cartons (commonly 12-count); case quantities available for larger sites.
• Buying by the case reduces unit cost and minimizes maintenance callouts through consistent inventory.

FAQ

Is the PC1400 rechargeable?

No. The PC1400 is a primary alkaline cell and must not be recharged. For rechargeability, consider NiMH C-size batteries and a compatible charger.

Can I mix PC1400 with other brands or partially used cells?

No. Mixing types, brands, or states of charge can cause leakage, poor performance, or device damage.

What is the shelf life?

Manufacturer-rated up to 10 years when stored properly in a cool, dry place. Use date codes to rotate inventory.

What temperatures can it operate in?

Typical operating range is about -4°F to 130°F (-20°C to 54°C). Expect reduced performance at temperature extremes.

Will it replace LR14 or MN1400 batteries?

Yes. PC1400 is a C-size alkaline cell equivalent to IEC LR14 and Duracell MN1400 designations. Always match size and chemistry to your device requirements.