Should you store batteries out of flashlight?

[Shann]

in addition to my keychain light and my nice FENIX light in my console, I keep an old cheap D cell flashlight in my BOB in my truck. Will I get better storage life by just leaving them in the original packaging instead of putting them in the flashlight. I've heard that they can draw a bit of power even if they are off but I don't know if that's true. The batteries that I put in about a year ago already need to be replaced. I'd like more of a storage life, especially since the light in the bag is my third option so I wouldn't need to have it instantly ready. I could easily use my emergency key chain light or even my truck's interior light to see to install the batteries.

 

[powernoodle]

In my view, the primary reason for storing alkaline batteries outside of the light is the batteries' propensity for leaking their delicious internal juices and damaging the light. This is a common occurrence. Some lights have a slow battery drain, but I don't think that Mag-lites or similar lights do. The lights with a slow drain are those with circuitry to regulate the light and provide different output levels. I could be wrong, but I don't think that cheapy alkaline lights have this problem. Someone correct me.

If you want to go hardcore, get a Streamlight Stinger LED and hardwire its charger in your vehicle. The light will always be fully charged and good to go. The less spendy route is just to keep some good alkaline batteries in your BOB and keep an eye on the expiration date. Maybe write the date in big numbers with a Sharpie so you are reminded of it regularly.

By even thinking about this subject, you are way ahead of 99% of the populace.

 

[bdmicarta]

For any alkaline battery powered device that you don't use regularly, remove the batteries when not in use so they won't destroy it. I've had at least 3 flashlights destroyed by leaking batteries. Stored outside of the device they seem to last a long time but if you are really worried about shelf life use CR123 Lithium batteries.

 

[CWL]

While I think it's a good idea, to prevent train and leaks, but for me, my flashlights should be ready to "go" right when I need it, so I prefer to keep them loaded.
I do carry spares in my bag though.

 

[oguruma]

For any alkaline battery powered device that you don't use regularly, remove the batteries when not in use so they won't destroy it. I've had at least 3 flashlights destroyed by leaking batteries. Stored outside of the device they seem to last a long time but if you are really worried about shelf life use CR123 Lithium batteries.

I think it is lithium batteries in general, because my Energizer AA lithiums have a 10 year shelf life as well.

 

[gadgetgeek]

I think temp change may have an effect on the life span of alkaline batteries, at the very least, high heat is not great for them. I'd keep batteries out of the flashlight.

 

[thatotherguy]

in addition to my keychain light and my nice FENIX light in my console, I keep an old cheap D cell flashlight in my BOB in my truck. Will I get better storage life by just leaving them in the original packaging instead of putting them in the flashlight. Typically, yes. I've heard that they can draw a bit of power even if they are off but I don't know if that's true. It is for alkalines at least The batteries that I put in about a year ago already need to be replaced. I'd like more of a storage life, especially since the light in the bag is my third option so I wouldn't need to have it instantly ready. I could easily use my emergency key chain light or even my truck's interior light to see to install the batteries.

I'd be more concerned about corrosion. It can ruin your light, and most battery companies won't do anything to help you if it does ruin your light. I use Duracell batts in my low drain, storage devices so that if they do leak I can get the item replaced.

 

[Magnaminous_G]

I've actually thought about that question a lot, myself, and I have a system that works for me. If you are interested, here it is: I keep batteries inside the flashlight (because if I do need it in an emergency, it won't be much use without batteries already in it), but I keep a record of when I put them in there and replace regularly. I keep rechargeables in my electronics and replace monthly, and I keep lots of Energizer Lithium spares around. I do not recommend using CR123 batteries, because in a real "bug out" situation, those are going to be hard to find. AA and AAA can be found anywhere.

Extra batteries are stored either in their original packaging or in a battery caddy, like the ones from PowerPax (I've got a ton of them and highly recommend them). I never store batteries loose because A) It's hard to remember if they are used or fresh, and B) If they are touching at the poles, they will drain. Energizer Lithium last much longer than standard batteries, in my experience, so I suggest those.

Here's what the PowerPax battery caddies look like:

 

[akula83]

+1 for lithium in regards to AA.

 

[Ultraman]

EDIT: This post doesn't answer OP's, but addresses longer term storage.

No doubt that they should be stored out of the flashlight if not going to be used for a spell.

Aside from those nice battery caddies, a less fancy option are the holders sold at Container Stores. I use something similar to this:

Sometimes discount retail stores sell battery organizers with testers. I got something similar being sold as Christmas gifts during the holiday season:

The batteries are exposed so it might be something more suited for your garage or home.