Do Batteries Last Longer if Stored in the Refrigerator?

Truth or Speculation?

• In a report cited by Michael Bluejay, a writer, in his online battery guide, "Consumer Reports" tested a total of 432 Duracell brand AA, C and D batteries. During the experiment, the group placed some batteries in a refrigerator and kept others at room temperature. After two and a half years, the refrigerated AA batteries were found to have fully held their charge, while the unrefrigerated sample had lost approximately four percent, indicating that refrigeration played a positive role. The room-temperature C and D batteries lost around 10 percent of their charge.

Official Answer

• Energizer, a popular battery manufacturer, says storing batteries in the refrigerator is "not required or recommended" for modern alkaline cells, and claims a cold environment could damage the product. The company recommends storing batteries at room temperature with minimal humidity for best results. The company does not say whether the advice is true for all batteries or just alkaline models.

The Science

• Esther Takeuchi, head of the Battery Division of the Electrochemical Society, explained in an interview with website ScienCentral that chemical reactions occur more slowly at cold temperatures. "What people are trying to do is slow down the self-depletion mechanisms of the batteries by keeping them cold," she explained. "If batteries are kept cooler while they're not in use, it will extend their shelf life." Although she confirms the findings of "Consumer Reports," Takeuchi does not recommend freezing batteries as it could damage the internal components.

Bottom Line

• Storing new, fully charged batteries in the refrigerator will help slow down the natural loss of charge. Whether the extra power translates into a noticeable difference when it comes time to use the batteries is still up for debate. If you have room in your refrigerator, it can't help to test the theory for yourself.