By now, most of us know that you can't just throw your everyday household batteries – like AAs and AAAs – into the bin and forget about them; they must be disposed of at a designated collection point to prevent damage to the environment.

But what happens to larger, more powerful batteries, such as car batteries?

Car batteries essentially start your vehicle's engine, which means they contain hazardous materials like lead and acid. As such, they are more difficult to dispose of. So, what do you do with an old car battery? The team at Hill Metal Recycling is here to talk you through it.

Why proper car battery disposal matters

As we've mentioned above, car batteries are made up of heavy metals and hazardous materials. If dumped in landfill, these can leach into the surrounding environment, contaminating nearby soil and water sources and potentially harming both wildlife and humans. At a time when we should all be making an effort to be more sustainable, dumping a car battery in landfill is wasteful; these batteries hold valuable materials that could be recovered and reused to conserve natural resources.

Proper car battery disposal isn't just good for the environment; it helps you stay on the right side of the law as well. Under The Waste Batteries and Accumulators Regulations 2009, it's illegal to dispose of used car batteries via landfill or incineration; failing to stick to these rules could see you facing a hefty fine, or even prosecution in serious cases.

Where can you take a car battery?

• Local recycling centre: Most tips across the UK will accept car batteries, but it's best to check with your local council if you're unsure.
• Garages: Many local garages will automatically dispose of your old battery for you when you buy a new one from them. Some national garages, like Halfords, also offer a free car battery recycling service.
• Scrap metal merchants: If you want to ensure your old car battery is disposed of responsibly while also earning a bit of extra cash, contact a trusted scrap merchant, like Hill Metal Recycling. 

What NOT to do with a car battery

• Don't dump it: Under the Hazardous Waste Regulations 2005, car batteries are deemed to be hazardous waste, and therefore dumping them – whether that's in landfill, in your general waste bin or flytipping them – is strictly prohibited.
• Don't ignore it: Although it might be tempting to leave your unwanted car battery in your garage and forget about it, this can cause harmful gases and acids to leak out over time, posing a serious safety risk.
• Don't try to open it: You should never try to open or dismantle a car battery yourself, as you could be left with severe burns and injuries if the toxic materials inside come into contact with your skin or eyes.

Tips for safely handling a car battery

• Always wear gloves before touching the battery, as even minor, seemingly invisible damage can cause acid to leak out.
• Handle the battery with care and keep it in an upright position to avoid damage.
• Transport it in a sturdy container – don't have it banging around in your boot.
• Store it well away from pets, children, flammable objects and potential sources of ignition.

If you're based in Essex, Hertfordshire or the surrounding areas, why not take advantage of the car battery recycling service we offer here at Hill Metal Recycling? Whatever make or model of vehicle you own, we accept all types of car batteries – including electric batteries – at our Harlow depot. Plus, we offer instant payment so you can drive away with a bit of extra cash in your pocket – it's a win for everyone. Contact us today to find out more.