One of the greatest advancements that has helped oxygen-dependent patients enjoy a higher quality of life is the battery-powered portable oxygen concentrator. Portable oxygen concentrators use rechargeable lithium-ion batteries that last an average of three years before they begin to wear out. But what do you do with a battery when it is no longer usable?
Recycle your batteries with Call2Recycle
The best option for the environment is to recycle your old batteries, and I recently learned of an organization that will accept portable oxygen concentrator batteries – Call2Recycle. According to their website:
Call2Recycle® is the only free rechargeable battery and cellphone collection program in North America. Since 1996, Call2Recycle has diverted 70 million pounds of rechargeable batteries from the solid waste stream and established a network of 30,000 public recycling drop-off locations. Call2Recycle, Inc. is a 501(c)4 non-profit organization.
Batteries can be recycled at any of their national retail partners, such as Home Depot, Lowes, Staples, and Best Buy. They also offer a convenient recycling locator that will tell you the drop-off locations near you. Their locator includes the complete name, address, and phone number of the drop-off locations and places each location on a handy map.
Best of all, it is free!
Do you already have on old concentrator battery that you’re not sure what to do with? Why not gather it up, along with any other rechargeable lithium ion batteries that are supplied with cell phones and cordless power tools, and take them to the nearest Call2Recycle location today.
I have a used AirSep POC that was given to me by the wife of a friend who passed away and had bought the concentrator used as well as the battery charger and batteries. However, he never had it serviced and the batteries have compeletely drained and so will not charge. I do not need this and want to find a way to donate somewhere!!! I live in Southern California and cannot afford to pay shipping to somewhere. Thanks.
You certainly can recycle the battery through Call2Recycle. You can use their drop-off locator to find a recycling box near you. As for the unit, I am no sure where you could donate it. However, I think OxiMedical will purchase used units. You may want to contact them to see what they would offer.
Thank you!!