Alkaline Batteries With Sealed Products Longevity

[casterofdreams]

Hi Everyone,

Not exactly sure where this would fit but I have a question: is there any way to combat normal AA or AAA alkaline batteries from spilling battery acid in packaged products such as controllers and what not that you plan on keeping sealed in the long term?

I ask because I've purchased awhile back the Xbox 360 Media remote V2.0 around release and years later the batteries busted inside the package. The plastic holder inside of the package that houses the remote itself has turned from white to yellowish like the SNES of yore. The acid is not near the remote itself but is there concern for it in the future?

I also have the limited edition Halo 4 controller and was worried that the batteries (which isn't visible without opening the package) from meeting the same fate.

Thanks in advance all.

[Jagosaurus]

This will eventually happen. Keeping them in low humidity, indoor temp environments will help.

I don't like to ship items with batteries. Of course you're not suppose to without proper labels, but I worry about those hot trucks and possibly altitude on planes.

I keep white vinegar on hand. Main purpose to clean alkaline battery corrosion off terminals.

[CRTGAMER]

I ask because I've purchased awhile back the Xbox 360 Media remote V2.0 around release and years later the batteries busted inside the package.

I also have the limited edition Halo 4 controller and was worried that the batteries (which isn't visible without opening the package) from meeting the same fate.

The media remote had regular LR6 AA batteries inside; alkalines that eventually leak when left too long and not used. Should always be removed if a device will not be used for a while.

The controller might have alkalines or a rechargeable battery pack inside, only the rechargable has minimal chance of leaking when stored. I would cut the seal and check to be sure. This weighs the value of sealed rare controller vs the corrosion risk.

[marurun]

Given enough time an alkaline battery will inevitably leak, unless it is stored in ideal conditions. Keep it stored below 70 degrees F in a dry environment and you might stand a chance. If the batteries ship installed in a housing or the device you are screwed.

[casterofdreams]

So I ultimately decided to open up all the sealed controllers and remove the batteries. I didn't buy those controllers to resell at a later date. I just like handling new controllers. I wanted a fresh supply of the 360 controllers since I use them for both the system and PC.

The Halo controllers had regular Duracell batteries with a expiration date on 2019. The controllers with the PC dongle were the longer term batteries expiring in 2026. Given varying storage conditions it's better to remove them all.