Batteries

About Batteries

Whether you're a professional tradesperson relying on cordless power tools or a homeowner keeping torches and remote controls running, having a reliable supply of quality batteries is essential. The comprehensive range at Tooled-Up.com includes trusted brands like Duracell, Energizer, Lighthouse and Draper, covering everything from standard household sizes to specialist button cells and lithium coin batteries.

From AA and AAA batteries for everyday devices to 9V batteries for smoke alarms and professional equipment, this selection includes alkaline, lithium and specialist battery types to suit virtually any application. The range encompasses both consumer-grade options for home use and professional Procell ranges designed for high-drain devices and demanding work environments. Whether you need a single CR2032 coin battery for a key fob or bulk packs of AA batteries for a busy workshop, you'll find the right power solution here.

On-site reliability matters, which is why premium alkaline batteries that deliver consistent performance and long shelf life are essential. From electricians needing reliable power for testing equipment to security installers requiring dependable batteries for sensors and remotes, Tooled-Up stocks batteries covering the diverse needs of UK trades and DIY enthusiasts alike.

Jargon Buster

• Alkaline Battery: The most common battery type using zinc and manganese dioxide chemistry, offering excellent performance for medium to high-drain devices. Ideal for torches, toys and portable tools.
• Lithium Battery: Advanced battery chemistry providing superior performance in extreme temperatures, longer shelf life (up to 10 years) and lightweight design. Commonly used in coin cell formats like CR2032 and CR2025 for small electronics.
• mAh (Milliamp Hours): A measurement of battery capacity indicating how much energy a battery can store. Higher mAh ratings mean longer runtime between battery changes.
• Procell: Duracell's professional battery range designed specifically for business and trade use, offering reliable performance in demanding applications and bulk packaging for cost efficiency.
• Button/Coin Cell: Small, disc-shaped batteries used in compact devices such as watches, calculators, key fobs, hearing aids and motherboards. Available in various chemistries including lithium and alkaline.
• Shelf Life: The length of time a battery can be stored before use whilst maintaining its performance. Premium batteries typically offer 5-10 year shelf life when stored correctly.

Who Uses Batteries?

Batteries are essential across numerous trades and applications:

• Electricians: Testing equipment, multimeters, voltage detectors and head torches
• Security Installers: Alarm sensors, motion detectors, wireless remotes and testing devices
• Plumbers and Heating Engineers: Inspection cameras, leak detectors and portable lighting
• Facilities Managers: Maintenance equipment, emergency torches and building systems
• Fire Safety Professionals: Smoke alarms, carbon monoxide detectors and emergency equipment
• Audio-Visual Technicians: Wireless microphones, remote controls and testing gear
• General Builders: Laser levels, measuring tools, site radios and safety equipment
• Homeowners and DIY Enthusiasts: Torches, clocks, remote controls and household devices
• Caretakers and Maintenance Staff: Inspection torches, radios and emergency lighting

How to Choose the Right Batteries

Battery Size: Ensure you select the correct size for your device. Common sizes include AA (pencil), AAA (triple-A), C, D and 9V for standard applications, plus specialist sizes like CR2032 coin cells and LR44 button cells for smaller electronics.

Chemistry Type: Alkaline batteries offer the best value for most medium to high-drain devices. Lithium batteries excel in extreme temperatures and provide longer shelf life, making them ideal for emergency equipment and infrequently used devices. Standard zinc-carbon batteries suit low-drain applications like clocks and remote controls.

Application Requirements: High-drain devices like digital cameras, torches and portable radios benefit from premium alkaline or lithium batteries. Low-drain devices such as wall clocks and TV remotes can use standard alkaline options. Professional equipment may require Procell or industrial-grade batteries for reliability.

Bulk Buying: Tradespeople and facilities managers can benefit from bulk packs of frequently used sizes. Check the use-by date to ensure batteries will be used within their shelf life. Procell ranges offer excellent value for professional users requiring consistent performance.

Brand Quality: Trusted brands like Duracell and Energizer provide guaranteed performance and leak protection. Whilst premium batteries cost more initially, they typically last longer and perform better in demanding applications, offering better value overall.

Popular Accessories

• Battery testers and organisers for workshop and van storage
• LED head torches and inspection lights powered by AA/AAA batteries
• Rechargeable battery systems and charging stations
• Battery storage cases and organisers
• Multimeters and electrical testing equipment
• Portable work lights and site lighting
• Tool belt pouches for battery storage
• Emergency torches and backup lighting

Safety Information

Storage: Store batteries in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat sources. Keep batteries in their original packaging until use to prevent short-circuiting. Never store loose batteries together, particularly in pockets or toolboxes where terminals could touch.

Disposal: Never dispose of batteries in general waste. Use designated battery recycling points available at most UK supermarkets, civic amenity sites and retail outlets. Some battery types, particularly lithium and button cells, can be hazardous if damaged or disposed of incorrectly.

Installation: Always install batteries with correct polarity as marked on the device and battery. Never mix old and new batteries, or different battery types in the same device. Remove batteries from equipment that won't be used for extended periods to prevent leakage damage.

Leakage and Damage: If a battery leaks, avoid skin contact with the contents. Wear gloves when cleaning leaked battery material and dispose of affected batteries immediately. Check smoke alarms and safety equipment regularly and replace batteries according to manufacturer recommendations.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long do alkaline batteries last in storage?
Quality alkaline batteries from brands like Duracell and Energizer typically have a shelf life of 5-10 years when stored in cool, dry conditions. Always check the use-by date printed on the packaging. Premium ranges like Duracell Procell are specifically designed for longer storage in professional environments.

What's the difference between consumer and Procell batteries?
Procell batteries are Duracell's professional range designed for business and trade use. They offer the same reliable performance as consumer Duracell batteries but come in bulk packaging suited to high-volume users, making them more cost-effective for tradespeople, facilities managers and businesses requiring regular battery supplies.

Can I use lithium batteries in any device?
Lithium batteries (like CR2032 coin cells) are designed for specific devices and cannot be substituted for standard alkaline sizes. However, lithium versions of AA and AAA batteries are available and can be used in place of alkaline batteries, offering superior performance in extreme temperatures and longer shelf life, though at a higher cost.

Why do some batteries work better in certain devices?
Different devices have different power demands. High-drain devices like digital cameras, LED torches and power tools benefit from premium alkaline or lithium batteries that can deliver consistent high current. Low-drain devices like remote controls and wall clocks work perfectly well with standard alkaline batteries, making premium options unnecessary.

How should I dispose of old batteries safely?
UK regulations require batteries to be recycled rather than disposed of in general waste. Take used batteries to designated recycling points found at most supermarkets, DIY stores and civic amenity sites across the UK. Many retailers also offer battery recycling services. This prevents harmful materials entering landfill and allows valuable materials to be recovered.