Do rechargeable batteries discharge even when they are not being used?

Answer by  davidgro (26)

Yes, they all do, some more than others, and it is called "self-discharge" - It is the reason most rechargeable batteries are sold uncharged. Regular NiMH batteries can discharge around 30% per month but there is a new type called "Low self-discharge NiMH battery" (often called 'hybrid' or 'ready-to-use' or 'pre-charged') that lose only 15% after a year. I've tried them and they seem good.

Answer by  Marc (35)

They should not. However with most batteries at the end of their useful life they tend to lose the ability to 'hold a charge'. This generally means that there has been a degrading of the materials that the battery is made of.

Answer by  swiechec (20)

No, If they are not being used they do not use energy. They may get weaker if they are sitting for a long period of time like any other battery. No they do not discharge but it is best to store them in the charger when you are not using.

Answer by  heather88 (1897)

I think they do if they are old, when they are old they sometimes don't have as long a life as regular batteries, they don't seem to hold their charge as long as the newer ones, that is the only thing about old batteries.