How Long Should You Charge AA Batteries?

Users of battery-operated devices are increasingly opting for rechargeable AA batteries for obvious reasons. A number of modern household devices, such as audio players, cameras, flashlights, and toys, consume more battery power which calls for frequent battery changes. Thus, using rechargeable AA batteries makes sense from a long-term perspective. Also, it is an environment-friendly option.

AA batteries are charged by inserting the batteries into an electric charger. The chemical ingredients of these batteries store the electric current, which we use later on for various purposes. Typically, it takes 3 to 4 hours to charge any type of AA battery; however, all these depend on your requirements.

Charging Time for Different Types of AA Batteries

• Nickel-Metal Hydride (NiMH): Ultra Fast AA/AAA battery chargers take about 4 to 6 hours to simultaneously recharge four batteries. Conventional battery chargers may take 8 to 10 hours to charge two batteries.

• Lithium Ion (Li-ion): One of the smartest of the lot, these batteries monitors the power usage and can save up to 15 percent of the energy of the battery due to a built-in chip. The typical charge time for these batteries is 3 hours; however, some chargers are known to do the same job in less than 2 hours.
• Nickel Cadmium (NiCad): Nickel batteries last longer compared to alkaline batteries because of their higher power capacity and constant current flow that lasts till the battery discharges completely. NiCad batteries, however, are costly and cannot be used in all gadgets due to their output voltage of 1.2 V. The charging time for these batteries is 8 hours.