Batteries and rechargeable batteries

We sell replacement batteries and accumulators for medical devices. As a retailer, we provide information here about returns, safe handling, and disposal.

1. Your obligation to return

Used batteries and accumulators do not belong in the general waste, recycling bin, bulky waste, or scrap metal. As an end user, you are legally obligated to collect them separately and take them to a collection point. This also applies to hospitals, medical practices, and businesses.

2. Returns to us are free of charge.

We accept used batteries of the types that we currently stock or have previously stocked as new products free of charge, regardless of brand and origin:

• In person at Nispel GmbH, Höttingstraße 91, 45711 Datteln, Mon–Thu 7:45–16:30 and Fri 7:45–13:00
• When collecting your battery for maintenance or repair: Please give the old batteries to the DHL driver.
• By mail: We will send you a free shipping label upon request. Write to kontakt@nispel.de or call us: 02363 3663-0. Please tape over the terminals of lithium batteries beforehand.

You can also return used batteries to collection points in stores and to municipal recycling centers.

3. Safe handling of lithium-containing batteries

Lithium batteries and rechargeable batteries are safe when handled properly. However, if they are damaged or overheated, a short circuit can occur, potentially causing a fire or explosion.

• Protect batteries from shocks, drops, heat and moisture.
• Before returning the batteries, tape over the terminals to prevent them from short-circuiting each other.
• Remove damaged, swollen, leaking, or deformed batteries from the device. Take them immediately to the collection point, with the terminals taped over and in a non-flammable container with a lid. Speak to the staff there.
• Never throw batteries into a fire and never open them.

4. Use it longer, less waste

• Ideally, charge lithium-ion batteries starting at around 20% remaining charge and stop charging at around 90%. Avoid deep discharge.
• Recharge batteries that you do not use for an extended period of time, at the latest after six months.
• Where the device allows a choice, rechargeable batteries are a better choice than disposable batteries.
• If a device battery is failing, replace the battery instead of the entire device. Replacement batteries for many devices are available in our shop.

5. What the symbols on the battery mean

• Crossed-out trash can: The battery must be collected separately from household waste.
• CD or Pb under the trash can: The battery contains more than 0.002 % cadmium or more than 0.004 % lead.
• Capacity information (in the case of batteries) or. „"non-rechargeable"“ and information on the minimum operating time (for disposable batteries): The Battery Ordinance is introducing these markings gradually.
• QR code: From February 18, 2027, batteries will bear a QR code. This leads to the declaration of conformity and disposal instructions.

6. Why separate collection is important

Batteries contain valuable materials such as lithium, nickel, cobalt, and manganese, which can be recovered. However, some also contain toxic substances like cadmium, lead, mercury, conductive salts, and solvents. Heavy metals accumulate in soils, waterways, and the food chain, and can thus enter the human body. Cadmium compounds can damage the kidneys; lead attacks organs and the nervous system and is deposited in bones. Furthermore, used lithium batteries in household waste can cause fires in garbage trucks and sorting facilities.

Page last updated: 20. October 2026