Tenergy Batteries

Tenergy Batteries: What They Offer and When to Choose Them

Tenergy supplies a broad lineup of batteries for everyday and specialized devices, including alkaline (AA/AAA/C/D/9V), NiMH rechargeables (AA/AAA and packs), lithium-ion (e.g., 18650), and lithium‑thionyl chloride (Li‑SOCl2, e.g., ER14250). Choose Tenergy for practical value, wide availability of sizes, and options tuned for low-drain, high-drain, or long‑life applications.

Popular Chemistries at a Glance

Chemistry	Common sizes	Best for	Notes
Alkaline (primary)	AA, AAA, C, D, 9V	Low to moderate drain devices (remotes, clocks, toys)	Ready to use; long shelf life; not rechargeable.
NiMH (rechargeable)	AA, AAA, battery packs	Frequent-use or high-drain devices (cameras, game controllers)	Lower long‑term cost and waste; 1.2 V nominal; needs a NiMH charger.
Lithium‑ion (rechargeable)	18650 and other cylindrical/prismatic cells	High energy density uses (LED flashlights, RC, DIY packs)	Use the correct Li‑ion charger; consider protected cells for safety.
Li‑SOCl2 (primary)	ER series (e.g., ER14250 1/2 AA)	Ultra‑long life, very low drain (meters, sensors, IoT)	Very low self‑discharge; not rechargeable; may need a capacitor for pulse loads.

When Tenergy Is a Good Fit

• Household basics: Alkaline AA/AAA for remotes, wall clocks, toys, and flashlights you use occasionally.
• High‑use gadgets: NiMH AA/AAA for game controllers, camera flashes, wireless peripherals, kids’ toys—recharge hundreds of times.
• High output: Li‑ion 18650 for modern LED flashlights or hobby projects requiring high current and stable voltage.
• Long‑term sensors: Li‑SOCl2 ER cells for meters and security/IoT nodes that must run for years without maintenance.

Simple Runtime and Shelf‑Life Expectations

• Alkaline AA: wall clock 6–12 months; small LED flashlight (100 lm) about 2–4 hours on high. Shelf life: typically up to several years when stored cool and dry.
• NiMH AA (approx. 2000–2500 mAh): camera flash ~150–250 full‑power pops per charge; game controller ~20–35 hours. Holds charge reasonably well; top up every few months if stored.
• Li‑ion 18650 (approx. 2600–3000 mAh): 1000‑lumen flashlight ~1–2 hours on high before step‑down. Store around 40–60% charge if not used for weeks.
• Li‑SOCl2 ER14250 (1/2 AA): low‑drain sensors can run 5–10 years depending on duty cycle and temperature; add a buffer capacitor for brief high‑current bursts.

Actual runtime varies by device, draw, and environment; check your device manual and any battery datasheet for specifics.

Compatibility and Safety Notes

• Match chemistry to device. Do not attempt to recharge alkaline or Li‑SOCl2 primary cells.
• Use the right charger: NiMH chargers for NiMH; Li‑ion chargers for Li‑ion. Avoid universal chargers without proper modes.
• Voltage differences matter: NiMH is 1.2 V nominal (works well in most devices designed for AA/AAA); alkaline is 1.5 V nominal.
• Li‑ion form factor: some devices require button‑top or protected 18650 cells; others fit only flat‑top or unprotected. Check fitment before buying.
• Do not mix old and new cells, or different brands/capacities, in the same device.
• Storage: keep batteries cool and dry; avoid extreme heat. Store Li‑ion partially charged for longevity.
• Disposal: recycle rechargeables and follow local guidance for all batteries. Do not incinerate or short‑circuit.

Buying Tips

• For frequent use, choose NiMH rechargeables—two to four cells plus a smart charger covers most household needs.
• For emergency kits, keep alkaline or Li‑SOCl2 (where appropriate) in original packaging and check annually.
• Label sets used together (e.g., 4x AA for a flash) and cycle them as a group for even wear.
• If your device is left idle for months, remove alkaline batteries to prevent potential leakage.

FAQs

Can I use NiMH AA in place of alkaline AA?

Usually yes. Many devices perform well with NiMH’s 1.2 V nominal output and benefit from lower internal resistance. For devices that strictly require 1.5 V, check the manual.

Should I choose protected or unprotected 18650 cells?

Use protected cells when possible for added over‑current/over‑discharge protection, especially in general‑purpose flashlights. Some high‑drain or tight‑fit devices require unprotected or flat‑top cells—verify before purchase.

How many cycles do NiMH batteries provide?

Quality NiMH cells commonly deliver hundreds of cycles with proper charging and storage. Expect fewer cycles if regularly discharged very deeply or fast‑charged at high rates.

Are Li‑SOCl2 batteries safe in pulsed radio devices?

They are excellent for low‑average current, but radio transmit bursts can draw high peak current. Use a pulse‑rated cell or add a capacitor per your device’s requirements.

How should I store batteries long term?

Keep them in a cool, dry place. Store Li‑ion at about 40–60% charge and check every 3–6 months. Avoid freezing or leaving batteries in hot cars.