The remote stops responding and you automatically reach for new batteries. However, the old ones are often not discharged at all. Just one simple trick with the contacts and the controller can work like new.
Changing the batteries in the remote control is one of those small household expenses that are constantly repeated. But few people think about whether the batteries are really at the end of their useful life. Very often the problem is somewhere else. The culprit is, for example, inconspicuous oxidation of the contacts, which prevents the correct transfer of energy.
When the batteries fail in the blink of an eye
Almost everyone knows the white or grayish coatings in the battery compartment. They are formed gradually due to moisture, heat and chemical reactions inside the batteries. However, it does not have to be a visible leak either. Even a thin layer of oxidation can significantly worsen the contact.
The result is then clear: the controller responds only occasionally, you have to press the buttons harder or, on the contrary, nothing works at all. At the same time, the batteries can still be mostly charged. Instead of automatically replacing the batteries, it is therefore worthwhile to open the cover and look inside. That’s where the real problem often hides, which has a surprisingly easy solution.
A simple trick with rubber and rubbing alcohol
The fastest and most gentle method is . It will work perfectly ordinary school eraser. Gently rub it over the metal surfaces where the batteries touch the controller. Oxidation is released and contact is restored.
If the coating is thicker, it will help a cotton swab moistened with alcohol. It removes dirt residues and evaporates quickly, so there is no risk of damaging the electronics. A combination of gum and alcohol is often more effective than buying new batteries.
After cleaning, leave the controller open for a few minutes to dry completely before putting the batteries back in. In most cases, the controller springs to life immediately and works without a single hesitation.
When to sharpen and when to throw away the batteries
If oxidation occurs repeatedly, it may be old or low-quality batteries. It is better to replace and dispose of them. Definitely don’t leave them in a controller that you’re not using for a long time. It is inactivity that promotes the formation of corrosion. It is also worthwhile to open the controller once in a while as a precaution and check the contacts.
Next time you reach for a pack of new batteries, try to look under the cover of the controller first. Seemingly dead batteries often fail just because of a bad contact, and a simple eraser, a drop of alcohol and a few minutes of time can decide to give electronics a second life instead of another unnecessary purchase.
