Batteries

Unused batteries in good condition may be able to be donated.  An internet search such as “donate batteries York PA” will show organizations that accept these items for donation.

Automotive batteries contain the hazardous materials lead and sulfuric acid and should be returned to businesses that sell vehicle batteries for proper management. 

Rechargeable batteries contain toxic metals such as cadmium, lead, lithium and nickel.  In addition, lithium batteries can explode and/or cause fire.  Rechargeable batteries should be managed using the recycling options below or found here for Household Hazardous Waste (HHW) in York County. 

Alkaline batteries can be recycled at Batteries Plus Bulbs: https://www.batteriesplus.com/t/recycling.  Because alkaline batteries do not contain the toxic metals found in rechargeable batteries, they can also be disposed of in the regular trash.  However, if an alkaline battery is damaged or leaking it should be bagged tightly before disposal to prevent chemical burns from the corrosive inner battery cell. 

Below is a list of York County businesses that accept rechargeable batteries for recycling.  Before delivering any materials to the listed businesses, always call ahead to make sure they are still accepting the material you wish to dispose of and find out if there are any associated fees.