There are many types of batteries and you can test whether a battery is charged or not. The alkaline battery will bounce when it starts to go bad. So, drop the battery on a hard surface to see if it bounces. You can also measure the voltage using a multimeter, voltmeter, or battery tester so you know the exact size. You can also use a multimeter or voltmeter to test your car battery. For cell phone batteries, use the app to perform a diagnostic scan or ask the cell phone dealer to have it checked.
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Method 1 of 4: Performing Drop Test with Alkaline Batteries
Step 1. Hold the battery vertically 5 – 7.5 cm above a hard, level surface
When alkaline battery conditions deteriorate, zinc oxide builds up inside, and makes the battery more chargeable. This simple test helps you to separate the new battery from the old battery. Start by taking the battery and holding it on a flat hard surface, such as a metal or marble table. Hold it vertically so that the flat end is facing down.
- For AA, AAA, C, and D batteries, position them so that the positive pole is facing up.
- For a 9v battery, position it so that both poles are facing up, and the flat end is facing down.
- The wooden surface is not a good choice for this test. Wood absorbs more energy and things won't bounce well.
Step 2. Replace the battery if it bounces when dropped
See what happens to the battery when it hits the surface. The new battery will fall on the ground without bouncing. The battery may roll, but it won't bounce. Old batteries will bounce a few times before dropping. Use the results of this test to determine whether the battery is new or old.
- Keep in mind that if the battery bounces, it doesn't mean it's dead. This just means the battery is old and starting to lose power.
- This is a useful test if your batteries are mixed up and you don't know which one is newer.
Step 3. Compare it to a battery that you know is dead if you need help
A dead battery can be used as a good comparison when you are checking another battery. Use a battery that doesn't work when you insert it into certain devices. Drop the two batteries side by side and compare the reflections of the two.
A dead battery will bounce higher than a relatively new one. Compare the reflections of the two to determine the specific condition of the battery you are testing
Method 2 of 4: Using a Voltmeter for Lithium and Alkaline Batteries
Step 1. Locate the positive and negative terminals on your battery
To get a specific measurement, use a voltmeter. Start by finding the positive and negative ends of the battery you are measuring. These ends have markings.
- This method can be used for alkaline batteries and rechargeable lithium batteries.
- In AA, AAA, C, and D batteries, the negative pole is flat and the positive pole is prominent. In a 9v battery, the positive pole is round and the negative pole is a larger hexagon.
- Lithium batteries come in many forms. So, look for signs that indicate the positive and negative poles.
- You can also use a multimeter for this test, but make sure you set it to measure voltage, not amperes or ohms.
Step 2. Use the direct current (DC) setting on the voltmeter
Voltmeters and multimeters measure direct current and alternating current (AC). All batteries use direct current. Turn the voltmeter dial to DC before measuring.
Some voltmeters require you to select the maximum level of current you will measure. On most devices, the smallest is 20 volts. Usually this is sufficient for batteries in general. So choose 20 volts if the voltmeter requires you to select a certain level
Step 3. Glue the positive and negative heads on the positive and negative poles of the battery
On the voltmeter, the positive head is red. Attach the positive head to the positive pole of the battery and the negative head to the negative pole.
- If it is reversed, the battery will not be damaged. However, the measurement results will show a negative value.
- An ordinary home battery will not electrocute you when this test is performed. So don't worry.
Step 4. Stick the head on the battery to get the measurement result
The tool will provide measurement results within a few seconds. Use these results to determine battery newness.
- Fully charged AA, AAA, C, and D batteries have a voltage of 1.5 volts. A 9v battery has a voltage of 9 volts. If the measurement results in a value of 1 volt below what it should be, replace the battery.
- The normal voltage for a lithium ion battery is 3.7 volts, but sometimes it varies. Check back with the manufacturer to find out the maximum content.
- A 3.7 volt lithium battery normally stops working at the 3.4 volt level. So, when the measurements show results near the 3.4 volt level, replace or recharge your battery.
Step 5. Perform a load test on alkaline batteries for the most accurate results
The load test measures the strength of the battery during use. The high-quality multimeter has two load settings, 1.5 volts and 9 volts. For AA, AAA, C, or D batteries, turn the voltage dial to 1.5 volts. Choose 9 volts for 9v battery. Stick the black stick on the negative pole of the battery and the red stick on the positive pole to test the battery milliamperes.
- A 1.5 volt battery will read 4 milliamperes and a 9 volt battery 25 milliamperes. A number below this limit indicates the battery is dead. A 1.5 volt battery usually starts weak at 1.2 – 1.3 volt levels.
- This test cannot be used on lithium ion batteries because the multimeter does not have a load test setting for the battery voltage level.
Step 6. Place the battery in a battery checker or battery tester to get a simple measurement
It is easier to use than a multimeter, but has more limited functionality. These devices have a sliding arm that can be pushed back and forth to suit different battery sizes. Open this section and insert the AA, AAA, C, or D battery into the slot with the positive side attached to the slide arm. Check the display to read the measurement results.
- To check a 9 volt battery, some meters have different battery touch points. Check if your meter has this feature.
- Some meters can check a lithium ion battery if it is the same shape as a regular alkaline battery, but not if it is an unusual shape.
Method 3 of 4: Checking Car Battery
Step 1. Watch for signs of a dead battery when you start the car
Most of the time, you don't need a tool to check if your car battery is dead. When you turn the key or press the start button, the car engine will not make a sound. The headlights of the car will not turn on. Even if it is lit, the light will be very weak.
If the battery is about to die, the car may make noise, but it won't actually start. Although not always, usually the battery is the cause
Step 2. Turn off the car and open the hood to access the battery
Turning off the car before testing the battery will make the checking process safer and easier. If you are not sure where the battery is, read the user guide. Open the hood and look for a black rectangular box with a positive pole (red) and a negative pole (black).
The battery may be covered in a plastic hood. If it is closed, read the user guide. You may have to remove a few screws to open the hood
Step 3. Use a multimeter or voltmeter to check the battery
Select the DC or direct current setting if your appliance is digital. Place the end of the black rod on the negative pole and the end of the red rod on the positive pole. Pay attention to the measurement results listed on the multimeter. The result of the voltage measurement will appear.
- If the measurement returns 12.45 volts and above, your battery is still good. The problem with the car is most likely caused by something else.
- If the measurement returns below 12.45 volts, the battery is not able to start the car consistently, and you will need to replace it with a new one.
- The car battery gauge has the same function. You just need to connect the black clip with the negative pole and the red clip with the positive pole.
Step 4. Check your spare parts bo on the stock if you don't have a multimeter
Most parts stores will come and check if your battery is dead. They want to do it because they want you to buy a battery in their shop!
- Most parts stores will install a new battery if you don't know how.
- If your battery dies, you can jump-start or charge the car battery so you can drive it to the shop.
Method 4 of 4: Diagnosing Mobile Phone Battery
Step 1. Check iPhone battery using Apple Support app
Download the app if you don't have it already. Talk to one of the technicians who will help you diagnose the battery. A diagnosis report will be sent to the technician and they will be able to provide information on the health of your battery.
Usually, you have to go to Settings, Privacy and Analytics. Check if “Share iPhone Analysis” is ticked. Otherwise, press to activate it so that the technician can view the analysis report
Step 2. Use third-party apps to test Android battery
Download an app that checks the health of your battery, such as AccuBattery. Open the app and follow the on-screen instructions to install it. Use the phone normally for at least a day. After a day, open the app to view your battery health information. You will get more accurate information after using the app for a few weeks or months.
You can also use a third-party app, such as Coconut Battery, to check your iPhone, but you'll need to plug it into your Mac
Step 3. Visit a mobile phone store to check or replace the battery
Mobile phone vendors can perform a comprehensive battery test and check its performance. For iPhone, Apple Store is the best choice because it provides everything you need when it comes to checking your battery. Visit a store that sells smartphones and batteries to analyze Android battery.
