Energizer CR1220 Battery (3V Lithium Coin, 12 mm x 2.0 mm)

The Energizer CR1220 is a compact 3-volt lithium coin cell for slim devices that need reliable, low-drain power. It balances a thin profile with more capacity than CR1216 while fitting housings that cannot accept CR1225.

At a Glance

Chemistry	Lithium manganese dioxide (primary, non-rechargeable)
Nominal voltage	3 V
Size (D x H)	12 mm x 2.0 mm
Typical capacity	~35–40 mAh (at low drain)
Operating range	Approximately -20°C to 60°C (device-dependent)
Self-discharge	Low; suitable for multi-year shelf storage in cool, dry conditions

When to Choose CR1220

• Watches, slim remotes, and key fobs with shallow battery bays
• Digital thermometers and compact diagnostic tools
• Digital calipers, angle gauges, and small measuring instruments
• Memory backup (RTC/CMOS) on compact boards
• Low-profile sensors and tags that wake intermittently

Use vs. Avoid

• Use CR1220 if: Your device or old cell is marked CR1220, DL1220, or ECR1220; the battery bay requires 2.0 mm thickness.
• Avoid CR1220 if: The device specifies a different thickness (CR1216 or CR1225), requires rechargeable cells, or has high continuous current draw.

Compatibility and Cross-References

• Common equivalents: CR1220, DL1220 (Duracell), ECR1220 (legacy code). Match your device markings.
• Same size, different chemistry: BR1220 (poly-carbon monofluoride) shares dimensions but delivers lower pulse current; use only if specifically called for.
• Do not substitute thickness: CR1216 (1.6 mm) and CR1225 (2.5 mm) are not safe replacements. Do not stack cells.

Expected Runtime (Typical Scenarios)

• Key fob with occasional presses: About 6–18 months, depending on usage and signal strength required.
• Digital thermometer (weekly use): About 1–2 years.
• Measuring tools (intermittent use): Several months to a year; heavy display/backlight use shortens life.
• RTC/memory backup (1–3 µA): 1–3+ years, depending on cutoff voltage and device leakage.

Cold temperatures reduce available capacity during use; warm the device to room temperature before testing performance.

CR1220 vs. Other 12 mm Cells

• CR1216 (12 x 1.6 mm): Thinner, less capacity; use only if specified.
• CR1220 (12 x 2.0 mm): Balanced fit and runtime for shallow bays.
• CR1225 (12 x 2.5 mm): Thicker, more capacity; only if the device accepts the height.

Installation Tips

1. Confirm the code CR1220 in the manual or on the old cell.
2. Observe polarity: the flat side is “+”. Follow the device diagram.
3. Handle with non-metal tweezers to avoid shorting and fingerprints.
4. Clean contacts with a dry, lint-free swab if tarnished; avoid solvents.
5. Seat the cell flat; ensure the contact spring applies gentle pressure.
6. Close the compartment, then test the device immediately.

Storage & Stocking

• Store cool, dry, and consistent (pantry-like conditions).
• Keep cells in original packaging to prevent shorting and mix-ups.
• Rotate inventory (first-in, first-out). Date-mark packs when received.
• Choose quantity by need: singles/twins for home, small multi-packs for kits, bulk for service benches.

Troubleshooting

• Verify size and polarity; recheck the bay diagram.
• Inspect and gently re-tension bent contacts.
• Reset/re-pair devices (fobs, sensors) after total power loss.
• Try a second new cell to rule out seating/contact issues.

Safety Notes

• Keep away from children and pets; coin cells are an ingestion hazard.
• Do not recharge, crush, or heat.
• Do not carry loose cells with metal objects.
• Recycle or dispose of according to local guidelines.

FAQ

Is CR1220 the same as DL1220 or ECR1220?

They are common manufacturer prefixes for the same size (12 mm x 2.0 mm) lithium coin cell. Match the code on your device or old battery.

Can I use CR1216 or CR1225 instead?

No. They share the 12 mm diameter but differ in thickness. Using the wrong thickness can cause poor contact, gasket damage, or intermittent power. Never stack cells to mimic thickness.

Is CR1220 rechargeable?

No. CR1220 is a primary (non-rechargeable) lithium cell. Rechargeable look-alikes (LIR1220) exist but must only be used if the device explicitly supports them.

How long will a CR1220 last?

It depends on draw and temperature. Expect months to a year or more in low-duty devices (thermometers, small remotes) and 1–3+ years for microamp backup loads.

Should I refrigerate coin cells?

No. Store at room temperature in a dry place. Avoid humidity and temperature swings.