Lead acid batteries come in many sizes and types. Most common are wet cell batteries used in cars, trucks, boats and many types of powered equipment. Most wet cell batteries will allow potentially dangerous battery acid to escape unless handled with care. Sealed batteries used in many applications from alarm panels, to computers, and
large back up power systems are also lead acid but are non spillable unless the case is breached. Any battery with the letters Pb inside or adjacent to the recycle symbol is lead acid. We accept all lead acid batteries for recycle.
In the state of Washington you may only dispose of lead acid batteries with firms who are in the business of selling new lead acid batteries or which have registered with the Department of Ecology. Disposal with other sources violates Washington law and subjects you to a fine of $1,000.00 for each battery. The transportation of used lead acid batteries on the roads of Washington State is governed by the State and Federal Department’s of Transportation. At a minimum you should verify your source for disposal is in the business of selling new batteries or has registered with the State.
Nearly 90 percent of all lead acid batteries are recycled, making them the most recycled consumable in the United States. A typical lead acid battery contains 60 to 80 percent recycled lead and plastic.
Lead acid batteries are recycled by separating the battery into its three main components: Plastic, lead and sulfuric acid.
The polypropylene plastic is reprocessed into new battery cases.
Lead pieces are cleaned and also reprocessed for use in new batteries.
The battery acid is either neutralized and then sent through a waste water treatment plant to be cleaned for human consumption, or it’s converted into sulfate that’s used in laundry detergent.
The price paid for lead acid batteries fluctuates with the market price of lead and whether we pick the batteries up from you or you bring them to us.
Call 800-562-3212 for current pricing for your specific batteries.
