Batteries power a wide variety of devices, from toys and electronic equipment to lifesaving medical devices. Some devices, such as laptops, use batteries specifically designed for that particular device model, so you should consult the user guide to find out how to replace them. However, other devices usually use the more common types of batteries, such as AA, AAA, C, D, 9 v, and coin batteries. Even if you've never changed batteries before, this is an easy task that you can do yourself! If you are looking for a way to replace a car battery, then visit this article.
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Method 1 of 4: Locating the Battery Compartment
Step 1. Check the device for a small battery symbol or plus and minus logos
The battery compartment on a device can be anywhere. This object is usually located on the bottom or back of the device. So, first check those parts. The battery compartment is usually marked with a small battery symbol or plus and minus symbols indicating battery polarity.
The symbols may be above or next to the battery compartment door
Step 2. Look for the compartment to slide if no symbols are visible
If you don't see any symbols, you can find the battery compartment by looking for parts that can slide or open. Look for lines on the frame of the device that don't match the rest of the joints.
- You may find a clasp or lever to open the compartment door.
- The battery compartment is sometimes also closed tightly with one or more screws.
Step 3. Read the user manual if you are not sure where the battery compartment is
If you have a user manual for the device, there should be information about where to install the battery. If you don't have one, try looking for information online.
If you're doing an online search, be sure to include the device's brand name and model number, if you have one
Step 4. Remove the screws that secure the battery compartment
Usually, the screw that is attached to the battery compartment is a flare screw, which is a screw with a “plus” symbol on the top. To remove it, you must use a screwdriver with the same tip shape.
- If the screw is stuck, you may be able to remove it with a screw extractor.
- To replace the watch battery, you may need a special tool to remove the back cover.
Step 5. Locate the compartment door to determine the size of the battery required
Usually, the size of the battery is printed on the compartment door. Otherwise, the information may be in that compartment. If you don't have one, you'll need to estimate the size of the battery you need or try out batteries of several different sizes until you find the one that fits best.
- The AAA, AA, C, and D batteries are all 1.5v, but different sizes of batteries will carry different currents and produce different power. AAA is the smallest current 1.5 v battery and is usually used to power small electronic items. The D is the largest 1.5v battery and is usually used to charge larger items, such as flashlights.
- The 9 v battery looks like a small box with a button on the top and is often used to power things like smoke detectors and walkie-talkies.
- Coin/button batteries are round and small in size and are used to power small devices, such as watches, hearing aids, and computer components.
Method 2 of 4: Installing AA, AAA, C, and D. Batteries
Step 1. Look for the plus symbol on the battery to be installed
The polarity of the battery allows the object to carry current to a device. The plus (+) symbol indicates the positive pole. In AA, AAA, C, and D types of batteries, the positive side of the battery usually has a protruding end.
The negative pole of the battery usually appears flat and is sometimes indicated by a minus symbol (-)
Step 2. Look for positive and negative symbols on your device
There should be a plus and minus symbol in the battery compartment. This symbol gives an indication in which direction the battery should be installed. The negative pole usually has a small metal spring or lever.
If the polarity on the device is not marked, you may need to read the product instructions for use
Step 3. Align the symbol on the battery to the symbol on your device
It is very important to ensure that each battery is properly installed in the device. Incorrect installation of the battery may cause the device to malfunction or cause the battery to leak and release corrosive chemicals.
The plus symbol on the battery must match the symbol on your device
Step 4. Insert the battery into place starting from the negative pole
When inserting the negative pole of the battery, you need to press the spring or lever on the battery compartment. By inserting the negative pole first, the battery can more easily fit into its compartment. After that, you can easily insert the positive pole into place.
The positive pole of the battery will go straight in when pressed a little
Step 5. Check the position settings of each battery
If several batteries are installed parallel to each other, they may be positioned differently. This creates a series of currents that multiply the energy of the battery. Make sure that each battery is facing the correct direction, according to the symbol on the compartment or user manual.
Some devices that use more than two batteries may be able to stay on even if one of the batteries is in the wrong position, but this can damage the device or shorten battery life
Method 3 of 4: Installing a 9 Volt Battery
Step 1. Look for the bulge at the top of the 9 volt battery
The 9 v battery is small and square in shape with two protrusions at the top. One protrusion is a male connector, while the other is a female connector.
Step 2. Align the bumps on the battery with the bumps inside the device
When you look inside the battery compartment of the device, you will find two protrusions that are similar in shape to the bumps on the top of the battery. The male connector on the battery must align with the female connector in the device compartment, and vice versa.
You must have noticed that a 9v battery was installed in the wrong position because the connectors wouldn't fit and the battery wouldn't snap into place
Step 3. Hold the battery at an angle of 30°, then insert the connector part first
Once the protrusions are aligned, tilt the 9 v battery slightly. Press down on the top of the battery until the protrusions are in contact with the protrusions on the side of the device, then push the battery into its compartment.
This type of battery is sometimes quite difficult to install. If the battery is not successfully installed on the first try, try again by applying stronger pressure
Method 4 of 4: Installing the Button Battery and Coin
Step 1. Check the battery surface for the + symbol
Coin/button batteries are round, small and flat. Coin batteries appear flatter, while button batteries are usually smaller. The top of this battery generally lists the size of the battery.
- Usually, only the positive pole of the battery has writing. The negative pole may appear plain.
- In some types of button batteries, the positive pole appears slightly higher.
Step 2. Check the device for positive symbols
Your battery compartment may be marked with a positive symbol, especially if there is a sliding mechanism or door that must be opened to install the battery. However, if you have to pry the cover off, there may not be a symbol indicating which way the battery needs to be inserted.
On some devices that have a special battery door, such as hearing aids, you may find it difficult to close the door if the battery is reversed
Step 3. Insert the battery with the positive pole facing up, unless asked otherwise
If there is no sign of the devices, you need to assume that the positive pole of the battery should be facing up.
- If you install a coin battery on a computer motherboard, for example, there may not be a marker indicating the direction of insertion of the battery, but the positive pole should be facing up.
- If you are not sure, read the user manual.
Warning
- Always double-check your battery to make sure it is positioned correctly. Incorrect installation may cause the battery to leak or tear and release harmful corrosive chemicals.
- Never store batteries in pockets or handbags as they may leak.
