FAQS
ALKALINE / RECHARGEABLE / PHOTO / TORCHES / BUNNYDuracell's Best Ever Formulation ALKALINE
GO TO TOPHave all the alkaline batteries in the Duracell portfolio been upgraded?
All of the alkaline batteries in the Duracell portfolio in AA and AAA have been upgraded.
Which is the best alkaline battery for performance in the portfolio?
Duracell Ultra is the Best Ever Duracell alkaline battery across all devices. No other alkaline battery lasts longer than Duracell Ultra, based on the average of testing for devices used most.
Why has the ‘M3’ been removed from the Duracell Ultra name?
It was decided to remove ‘M3’ to reduce any consumer confusion and to clarify Duracell Ultra’s premium positioning.
How has Duracell Ultra been improved?
Duracell has employed a new HPC High Performance Cathode, with new superconductive graphite and ultra pure and higher active MnO2 (active ingredient) in the new Duracell Ultra, ensuring the best ever performance from its batteries. Duracell Plus technology has also been improved for advanced longer life. Using new SCG Super Conductive Graphite, with smaller particles and higher conductivity, it enables the use of less graphite. This allows for more MnO2 (active ingredient), which now means that this reliable energy source lasts even longer than before.
Does the new and improved Duracell Ultra still have the Power Check facility on all cells?
Yes.
Which Duracell batteries are best for my everyday devices e.g. remote control, digital camera, MP3 player and motorised toys?
Duracell Ultra is the best alkaline battery across all devices.
Can I mix new batteries with old batteries in my device?
No, do not mix old and new batteries.
Can I mix batteries with different capacities in my device?
No, batteries of matching capacities should be used within your device.
How does Duracell Ultra differ to Duracell Plus?
Ultra is the BEST DURACELL battery across all devices. No other alkaline battery lasts longer than Duracell Ultra, based on the average of testing for devices used most.
How has Duracell’s packaging improved?
The new ‘Planet’ design is more attractive than before, featuring across the Duracell portfolio for strong standout on shelf. Duracell has ensured that the new packaging remains recyclable.
What is the new D-click pack?
AA 12+16 / AAA 8+12 Duracell Ultra and Duracell Plus multi-packs are now available in new D-Click packaging. This packaging is user-friendly “open & close” packs for easy & clean storage. Addressing a consumer need for clean storage of batteries, this feature keeps the cells tidily in the pack than rolling around in the drawer! The packaging also has a window to reveal remaining batteries and is recyclable.
Does the new formulation for AA / AAA alkaline products influence the environmental sustainability?
The new formulation does not change the environmental sustainability of these batteries since they will continue to be made primarily from the common metals steel, zinc and manganese, all of which are recyclable metals. When the batteries become waste Duracell will pay for them to be collected and recycled as required by the new EU Battery Directive. In order to minimise the impacts on the environment from waste batteries Duracell recommends that consumers dispose of their used batteries within the battery collection system in their country.
What is the anode, cathode and electrolyte?
These are the basic components of a battery and like other alkaline batteries are: The anode is the negative electrode and is made of zinc. The cathode is the positive electrode and is made of manganese dioxide. The electrolyte is an aqueous solution that allows transport of ions between the electrodes and is made of potassium hydroxide.
What is their life expectancy for best performance?
Duracell has a freshness guarantee of 7 years and guarantees performance during that time. As there are thousands of various devices and usage there is no one performance life expectancy that is given.
Duracell Rechargeables
GO TO TOPWhy is Duracell introducing Duracell ActiveCharge cells?
Many consumers have not tried NiMH or are dissatisfied with their NiMH experience. Duracell ActiveCharge NiMH cells will appeal to these consumers as it will provide them a new NiMH option that addresses two key concerns: NiMH cells do not come charged and ready to use and they lose their charge after a few months in storage.
Can Duracell ActiveCharge NiMH cells be charged in any NiMH battery charger?
Yes, in any NiMH charger, but Duracell chargers are recommended because they are among the safest in the industry.
Can new Duracell chargers with ActiveCharge cells charge other NiMH cells?
Yes, they can charge any NiMH cells.
How long will Duracell ActiveCharge batteries stay charged?
They will retain up to 75% of their capacity after one year in storage.
Can I charge competitive NiMH cells using a Duracell NiMH charger?
Duracell chargers will charge competitive NiMH AA or AAA cells, yet as Duracell cannot guarantee the quality, safety or performance of competitive NiMH cells, we recommend charging only Duracell NiMH cells with your Duracell NiMH charger.
Can I charge non-NiMH cells (alkaline, zinc, heavy duty, NiCad, etc.) in my Duracell charger?
No. You can only charge NiMH batteries in a Duracell charger.
Can Duracell NiMH Rechargeable cells be used in my device?
Yes. As long as it is the right size, you can use Duracell NiMH cells in any device, however Duracell recommends consulting your device user manual for compatibility. NiMH cells are best suited to high-drain devices – in other words, devices such as digital cameras, which usually drain alkaline batteries very quickly.
Should Duracell NiMH cells be fully discharged before re-charging?
Duracell NiMH cells do not suffer from the so-called memory effect and it is OK to charge them even when they are not fully discharged. It is NiCad formulated cells that are subject to a memory effect and Duracell does not offer NiCad cells.
Should I charge new Duracell ActiveCharge NiMH cells before I use them?
It is not necessary to charge Duracell ActiveCharge NiMH cells before use because they retain up to 75% of their capacity after one year in storage. However, it is necessary to charge Duracell Base NiMH cells before their initial use as they lose 1% to 2% of their capacity per day while in storage.
How many times can I charge my Duracell NiMH batteries?
Duracell NiMH batteries can be re-charged hundreds of times they’re great value!
What should I do if my Duracell charger does not seem to be charging?
We suggest trying the following:
a.Unplug the charger from the wall between each use
b.Check that the batteries are positioned correctly in the correct slots
c.Ensure you are attempting to charge Duracell NiMH rechargeable batteries
Why do chargers list a "range" of time when explaining their charge time?
When a charger lists a range of charge time, it refers to the time it takes to charge a lower mAh cell. For example, a AAA cell will typically have a lower mAh capacity rating than a AA cell and will therefore require less time to charge.
Is it normal for Duracell NiMH Rechargeable Batteries or chargers to become warm while charging?
Yes, it is normal for both the cells and charger to become warm while charging.
Will I need a voltage converter for my Duracell charger when travelling overseas?
A plug adaptor will be required, but not a voltage converter. (The voltage range on Duracell chargers is 100 - 240 volts, 50/60Hz).
Can I charge Base NiMH cells in my Duracell charger?
Yes. All NiMH batteries can be charged in Duracell chargers. Recognize that higher mAh capacity cells require longer charge times to reach full capacity.
Do Duracell chargers shut off when charging is complete?
Duracell chargers will switch to a trickle charge when the normal charge is complete. Duracell recommends you unplug your charger when it is not in use.
Is it safe to leave the cells in the charger overnight?
Yes, due to Duracell's built-in safety features, it is safe to leave the cells in the charger overnight. Duracell does recommend that you un-plug the charger after use.
What is the difference between the 3 different types of rechargeable battery?
Value range: Can be recharged more times than higher capacity batteries
Performance range: Best for frequent use consumers who take a lot of photos once
Endurance range: Once charged, power stays available for use, there’s more life per charge, they’re convenient, and pre-charged so ready for use immediately.
Which devices shouldn't you use rechargeable batteries in?
You can use rechargeables in any device; however there are devices where you will have higher consumer satisfaction than others.
Good Housekeeping UK has been quoted as saying that you shouldn't use rechargables in smoke alarms is this correct?
Good Housekeeping rationale: "when rechargeable batteries run out of power, they do so very quickly, whereas disposable alkaline batteries tend to ‘die’ slowly. This means you won’t get the warning beeps that tell you when the battery in your smoke alarm needs changing if you use rechargeables."
Due to its safety nature, the smoke alarm is not an ideal device for standard rechargeable batteries. Indeed standard rechargeable batteries discharge with time, and this means that for essential safety devices such as a smoke alarm, it is not recommended. We also need to remember that even if disposable batteries are used in smoke alarms, it is highly recommended to change the battery a minimum of once a year.
What about gadgets' you don't often use? Will the battery drain itself if the gadget's unused for a while?
Again, standard rechargeable batteries do discharge overtime and are therefore not ideal for devices not used often or low-drain equipment. The new Duracell ActiveCharge, a low self discharge rechargeable holds up to 75% of its charge even after a year when not used, and overcomes this problem, thus can be used in low-drain devices or gadgets that are not often used.
Is there a safety concern about using rechargeables in some toys?
There are no safety issues with rechargeable batteries in toys.
Is it OK to use rechargeable batteries in any device?
You can use round cell rechargeable in absolutely any device where you would normally use an alkaline battery unless stated otherwise by the device manufacturer. There are no interference implications using rechargeable battery brands that are different to the device brand. (Please note that this is referring to round cell rechargeables, the lithium different shaped batteries are often developed by the manufacturer specifically to fit a certain cavity size, and therefore only the brand battery might work).
Duracell Powerpix
GO TO TOPWhat is PowerPix?
The Duracell PowerPix battery uses NiOx technology (which is a nickel oxy hydroxide formulation) to enable up to three times more pictures in digital cameras than regular alkaline batteries. Duracell PowerPix, available in AA and AAA sizes, is the newest addition to the Duracell portfolio.
What is NiOx Technology?
A Nickel Oxy Hydroxide formulation that is designed to release more power to meet the extremely high drain needs of digital cameras.
How does PowerPix provide better performance in digital cameras?
Duracell PowerPix uses a technology that is designed to release more power to meet the extremely high drain needs of digital cameras.
What makes PowerPix different than alkaline batteries?
The construction of an alkaline and a NiOOH battery are similar, but the NiOOH battery uses a nickel-based cathode. The nickel based cathode produces a higher operating voltage than alkaline, yielding longer life in digital cameras.
What is the shelf life of PowerPix?
Similar to our alkaline batteries, Duracell offers a seven year freshness guarantee for Duracell PowerPix.
What happens if a consumer installs a PowerPix battery in a device other than digital cameras?
We recommend that Duracell PowerPix be used in digital cameras. This battery may function in other devices, however the consumer will not see a performance advantage versus regular or premium alkaline in other devices.
Can the higher voltage of NiOOH cause damage in some devices?
No significant safety issues or device damage will occur if NiOOH is used in general purpose devices. Most devices will operate with NiOOH, however these types of batteries will not provide optimum performance in other devices.
Can PowerPix be recharged?
No, Duracell PowerPix is a non-rechargeable primary battery. Like any other non-rechargeable primary battery, recharging Duracell PowerPix can have a negative impact on the battery functionality and safety – and it is strongly discouraged. Abuse of the battery, such as recharging, may result in leakage or rupturing.
Is there a memory effect with the PowerPix battery?
No, there is no memory effect for Duracell PowerPix. Memory effects are seen in only rechargeable batteries, and do not apply to primary batteries. Duracell PowerPix is a primary battery and therefore is not rechargeable.
Can NiOOH be mixed with other alkaline batteries in device?
No, because of their different chemistries they must not be mixed.
How does this technology compare to LiFeS2?
NiOOH chemistry does not offer the higher power of lithium products. However, PowerPix offers consumers a significant performance advantage in digital cameras versus regular alkaline at a more affordable “out of pocket” cost than lithium batteries.
What is the difference between PowerPix and Panasonic’s Oxyride?
The NiOOH chemistry in the Duracell PowerPix and Panasonic Oxyride Extreme Power/Digital Xtreme Power is similar. The Duracell PowerPix battery is specifically for use in digital cameras, ensuring optimal battery and device performance for consumers. Duracell PowerPix delivers up to three times the number of pictures versus ordinary alkaline. The Panasonic Oxyride Extreme Power/Digital Xtreme Power battery positioning appears less specific, and we believe may mislead consumers into thinking Oxyride Extreme Power/Digital Xtreme Power has performance advantages in other devices beyond digital cameras.
Is NiOOH as safe as Alkaline product?
Yes, PowerPix (NiOOH) batteries meet the same safety standards that are used in testing all Duracell products.
How many pictures can a consumer expect to be able to take with the PowerPix battery? What will the replacement rate be for PowerPix batteries?
The actual number of pictures a consumer will get by using the Duracell PowerPix battery will vary depending on the camera design, features offered and the manner in which the consumer operates the device. In general, PowerPix will deliver up to three times more pictures than a ordinary alkaline battery in the same camera.
Duracell Torches
GO TO TOPHow many new Duracell torches are available throughout Western Europe?
The Daylite LED flashlight will be available throughout Western Europe. Two variations are being launched, one for AA batteries and the other for AAA batteries. The main difference in the technology is the diameter of the optics.
What’s so special about the new technology?
The new Daylite product is special as it provides extremely bright white light, with no traditional dark spots.
Duracell Bunny
GO TO TOPHow was the Duracell Bunny conceived?
It began in 1973, when a breakthrough advertising was developed to communicate that Duracell alkaline batteries lasted much longer in than ordinary and inexpensive zinc carbon batteries. A small pink, fluffy bunny, was created who, powered by Duracell batteries, was able to outlast all others in an array of colourful challenges.
How has the Duracell Bunny changed over time?
Throughout his successful career, the Duracell Bunny has embarked on numerous sports and cultural activities:
• He excels on drums which he has been practicing since 1973
• With unparalleled endurance, the Bunny’s a natural at skiing, kayaking, boxing, football and marathons; he always performs at the top.
How many ads has the Duracell Bunny starred in?
The Duracell bunny has starred in many adverts including:
-1988 “Night & Day” (G)
–1988 “Disco Bunny” (NL)
–1989 “Skiing Bunnies” (F)
–1992 “Kayaking Bunnies” (F)
–1993 “Punch Bag Bunnies”
–1995 “Xtra Beats”
–1995 “Kayaking Bunny in Space”
-2006 “Mountain Bunny”
What was the most successful advertising campaign?
Soccer bunny, its been running for over ten years. The bunny has won the World Cup three times and shows no sign of losing.
Is the Bunny available for sale?
Unfortunately the Duracell Bunny is not available for sale.
How has the advertising strategy changed?
The Duracell advertising strategy has now changed. The Duracell Bunny does not want to compete any longer with Zinc-Carbon Bunnies, as the Zinc Carbon category is less and less important. The Duracell Bunny has now come to the real world to highlight the power of the new formula of the best Duracell ever, Duracell Ultra AA / AAA.
