The C Battery: Everything You Need To Know

There are many different types of batteries that it’s easy to get confused about what to buy. But when it comes to dry cell battery, a widely used type are C batteries.

Dry cell batteries were created to perform with minimum internal moisture, which makes them ideal for portable devices. The most common dry cell battery sizes are AA and AAA. However, these are smaller in size than C batteries, which means they have a more limited lifespan.

The C battery, also known as R14s or C LR14 battery, provides a reliable, long-lasting charge if you’re using medium to high power devices, such as:

• Cameras

• Intruder alarms

• Musical instruments

• Radios

• Toys

Size

C-cell batteries have different capacities and voltages, but their physical size remains the same. They are built to a standard size. This is to ensure maximum compatibility with both accessories and devices like battery holders.

Compared to D batteries, C-sized batteries are smaller but larger than AA and AAA batteries. The dimensions are:

• Length: 50mm or 1.97 inches

• Diameter: 26.2mm or 1.03 inches

By Chemical

You can differentiate C batteries by their capacity, voltage, and by the main materials used in their construction. The most common types are lithium and alkaline batteries, as explored in the following:

Alkaline Batteries

Alkaline C batteries are based around alkaline electrolytes of potassium hydroxide. Because of their energy density and long shelf life, they’re among the most widely used types of batteries. You can find them in your everyday household items.

Lithium C Batteries

Lithium C batteries make use of the metallic element lithium as the central anode or central conductor. They’re noted for a long lifespan. However, they’re different from the rechargeable lithium-ion battery usually included in portable electronic devices like laptops or smartphones. The latter get their charge from lithium ions’ movement.

Battery Voltage

You can distinguish batteries by their voltage, otherwise known as the strength of electrical charge. Every batter has a label indicating a nominal voltage which defines battery capacity in ideal conditions. However, in practice, the voltage discharge rate will vary according to the conditions in which it’s operating.

The following are key nominal C-battery volts for consumer-level (non-rechargeable):

1.5 Volt C Battery

A 1.5 Volt C battery is a standard, non-rechargeable type typically used in everyday household items.

You can use them for:

• Clocks

• Radios

• Remote controls

• Toys

• Torches

3V C Batteries

A 3V C battery is used primarily for professional, moderate drain applications.

You can use them for:

• Gas and leak detectors

• Mining applications

• Oil tank level monitoring

• Petrochemical facilities

• Smart gas meters

3.6V C batteries

A 3.6V C battery is used solely for industrial or professional applications.

You can use them for:

• Buoys

• Measuring equipment

• Professional electronics

• Utility meters

Rechargeable C Batteries

There are two main types of C battery — the standard non-rechargeable and rechargeable.

You can re-energize rechargeable C batteries hundreds of times, which make them a sustainable choice. There are some rechargeable batteries built into the device that they power. Alternatively, removable models need a separate adapter or size C battery charger to recharge.

There are different battery chargers for C batteries. They offer features and options, including chemical compatibility, the number of batteries you can charge simultaneously, and varying dimensions and plug types.

The common types include:

• NiMH (nickel-metal hydride)

• NiCd (nickel-cadmium, NiCad or Ni-Cads)

• Li-ion (lithium iron)

FAQs

1. What’s the best C battery?

This will depend on your specific requirements. But, you should always ensure that you buy high-quality batteries from a reputable store for long-lasting power in both standard and high-drain applications.

2. Is it okay to charge non-rechargeable batteries?

No. The non-rechargeable batteries are designed not to be charged, and doing so could cause ruptures, overheating and even sudden explosions.

Standard batteries can’t store excess electrons as they have no means to do so. Once all the stored electrons deplete, the battery becomes inert. In comparison, rechargeable batteries contain chemicals that store excess electrons and these reservoirs are filled in by the battery pack when you charge them.

3. Can I recycle C batteries?

You can recycle C batteries along with other standard battery sizes. In some countries, local authorities accept batteries to recycle in standard refuse collection services.

In others, you will have to take your used batteries to a recycling centre or collection point. This is to ensure proper disposal. Old batteries are then broken down into small components for reuse.

4. How long will C batteries last?

The typical lifespan of a C battery depends on its specific model and size, as well as power consumption. On average, a standard 1.5V LR14 battery can last more than 18 hours when discharged at a rate of 200mA (milliamps). Typically, rechargeable size C batteries have a capacity of between 2200 and 4500 mAh (milliamp hours). The latter is enough for you to power a strong torch for over six hours.

Which type of C battery will you buy? We hope this article is able to guide you in making the right choice based on your needs.