Batteries
CAUTION: Rechargeable batteries contain toxic metals such as cadmium, lead, lithium, and nickel. In addition, lithium batteries can explode and/or cause fires and are an even greater fire hazard if they are damaged, defective, or recalled. For instructions on how to safely handle damaged, defective, or recalled batteries, please visit the PA Department of Environmental Protection’s website here. Contact the York County Solid Waste Authority at 717-845-1066 regarding the disposal of damaged, defective, or recalled lithium batteries. Undamaged rechargeable batteries should be managed using the recycling options below or found here for household hazardous waste in York County.
REUSE: Any batteries in good condition may be able to be donated or resold. An internet search such as “donate batteries York PA” will show organizations that accept these items for donation, or click here to view a list of York County donation/reuse outlets. Reusable items can also be resold at garage sales, consignment stores, and on internet sale platforms.
RECYCLING:
- Automotive batteries contain the hazardous materials lead and sulfuric acid and must be recycled at metal recycling businesses or the stores that sell vehicle batteries.
- Below is a list of York County businesses that accept rechargeable batteries for recycling. Before delivering to the listed businesses, call to make sure they are still accepting these materials and ask about any associated fees.
- Alkaline (non-rechargeable) batteries can be recycled at Batteries Plus. Click here for more information.
TRASH: Because alkaline batteries do not contain the toxic metals found in rechargeable batteries, they can be disposed in the regular trash. However, if an alkaline battery is damaged or leaking, tightly bag it before disposal to prevent chemical burns from the corrosive inner battery cell.
