Yes, NOCO does support battery recycling by encouraging customers to responsibly dispose of and recycle old batteries through their programs and partnerships. As a trusted brand in battery chargers and jump starters, NOCO understands the importance of environmental responsibility. Batteries contain hazardous materials that, if not handled properly, can damage the environment by leaking harmful chemicals into the soil and waterways.
Many people don’t realize how crucial battery recycling is—not only does it prevent pollution, but it also allows valuable materials like lead, lithium, and nickel to be reused in new products. NOCO actively promotes awareness about proper battery disposal and often collaborates with recycling centers to make it easier for consumers to recycle safely.
If you’ve recently upgraded your battery or bought a NOCO charger, knowing how to recycle your old batteries correctly is essential.
Best NOCO Battery Chargers for Maintaining and Extending Battery Life
When it comes to making your batteries last longer and avoiding premature disposal, NOCO offers some of the best smart chargers on the market. These devices don’t just charge—they monitor, maintain, and even repair your battery, which can delay or eliminate the need for early recycling. Here are three highly recommended NOCO battery chargers for prolonging battery life:
NOCO GENIUS1, 1-Amp Fully-Automatic Smart Charger
This compact charger is ideal for small batteries and maintenance charging. It’s energy-efficient, easy to use, and perfect for keeping motorcycle, lawnmower, or ATV batteries in optimal condition year-round.
NOCO GENIUS5, 5-Amp Fully-Automatic Smart Charger
With advanced diagnostics and battery repair mode, the GENIUS5 revives deeply discharged batteries and prevents sulfation buildup—making it great for reviving neglected or weak 6V and 12V batteries.
NOCO GENIUS10, 10-Amp Fully-Automatic Smart Charger
For those needing more power, the GENIUS10 handles larger batteries and provides high-speed charging. Its thermal sensor and multiple safety features make it ideal for long-term maintenance of RVs or boats.
Does NOCO Offer a Battery Recycling Program?
Yes, NOCO does support battery recycling—but not through a traditional take-back or in-house recycling facility. Instead, they focus on education, partnerships, and customer empowerment to ensure batteries are properly disposed of. While NOCO may not have physical battery collection centers, their approach reflects environmental responsibility in several meaningful ways:
NOCO Promotes Responsible Battery Disposal
NOCO frequently emphasizes the importance of safe battery disposal in their manuals, packaging, and online resources. Their documentation urges users not to throw batteries in household trash, as this poses a risk to the environment and public health.
Instead, customers are advised to follow local laws and recycling guidelines, which often involve taking batteries to:
- Certified battery recycling facilities
- Automotive parts retailers (many offer take-back programs)
- Hazardous waste collection events
Key Tip from NOCO Manuals: They direct users to contact their local government or waste disposal service to find out where to safely recycle batteries.
Product Design That Encourages Long-Term Use
While NOCO may not recycle batteries themselves, their smart chargers play a role in reducing battery waste. By helping users maintain, restore, and extend battery life, their products help reduce the number of batteries that end up in landfills prematurely.
This indirectly supports a recycling mindset by:
- Extending product life cycles
- Reducing how often batteries are discarded
- Supporting the circular economy in battery usage
NOCO Partners with Retailers Who Support Recycling
While NOCO does not run its own drop-off points, it does partner with retailers and distributors like AutoZone, Amazon, and BatteryStuff, many of whom have in-store recycling programs. These retailers typically accept:
- Lead-acid batteries
- AGM batteries
- Some lithium-ion batteries (check availability)
You can buy a NOCO product and drop off your old battery at the same retailer—creating a smoother recycling experience.
NOCO Supports Environmental Guidelines and Safety Standards
NOCO’s commitment to sustainability also shows in their compliance with global safety and environmental standards:
- RoHS (Restriction of Hazardous Substances): Their products avoid hazardous materials where possible.
- WEEE (Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment Directive): NOCO products sold in applicable countries feature the “do not dispose of in household waste” symbol, urging users to recycle properly.
How to Responsibly Recycle Batteries After Using NOCO Products
If you’ve been using a NOCO battery charger and your battery has finally reached the end of its life, recycling it the right way is more than just good practice—it’s essential for safety and sustainability. NOCO doesn’t collect old batteries themselves, but they strongly recommend users follow proper recycling steps. Here’s how to do that responsibly:
Know When It’s Time to Recycle a Battery
Even with a high-quality NOCO charger, batteries don’t last forever. Signs your battery is ready for recycling include:
- It no longer holds a charge, even after full NOCO charging.
- It leaks, swells, or shows visible damage.
- It fails repeated diagnostics on your NOCO smart charger.
If any of these apply, it’s time to retire it safely.
Identify Your Battery Type
Different battery chemistries have different recycling processes. Before disposal, check your battery label for:
- Lead-acid (common in cars, trucks, RVs)
- AGM (Absorbent Glass Mat)
- Lithium-ion (often used in marine, powersport, or solar setups)
Important: NEVER throw these into household garbage or open fires—they’re classified as hazardous waste.
Locate a Nearby Battery Recycling Drop-Off Point
Here’s where you can take your old battery:
- Automotive Retailers: Stores like AutoZone, O’Reilly Auto Parts, Advance Auto Parts, and NAPA often accept old batteries—even if you didn’t buy the new one from them.
- Recycling Centers: Use tools like Earth911.com or Call2Recycle.org to find local recycling points.
- Municipal Hazardous Waste Events: Cities and towns often host free recycling days where you can safely drop off batteries and electronics.
Use a Safe Method to Transport the Battery
Dead batteries can still leak or spark. Here’s how to transport them safely:
- Place the battery upright in a leak-proof plastic container or sturdy cardboard box.
- If it’s cracked or leaking, wrap it in a plastic bag or use kitty litter to absorb fluid.
- Keep it away from heat or flame during transport.
Trade In When You Buy a New One
Some battery retailers offer core credits when you return an old battery while buying a new one. This can knock $10–$20 off your purchase—and ensures the old battery is recycled properly.
Why Recycling Batteries Matters (Even If You’re Using Smart Chargers)
Using a smart battery charger like a NOCO Genius can drastically extend your battery’s life—but it doesn’t eliminate the need for responsible recycling once that battery reaches the end of its journey. Here’s why recycling still matters, even for battery-conscious users:
Batteries Contain Hazardous Materials
Most automotive and deep-cycle batteries contain lead, acid, or lithium—all of which are dangerous when left to degrade in landfills. These materials can:
- Leach into soil and groundwater, contaminating drinking water.
- Release toxic fumes into the air if incinerated.
- Cause fires or explosions if disposed of improperly.
Even if your battery looks harmless, its internal chemistry can pose a significant threat.
Recycling Recovers Valuable Resources
Proper battery recycling helps reclaim precious raw materials such as:
- Lead
- Plastic
- Electrolyte fluids
- Nickel and lithium (in newer batteries)
These can be reused in manufacturing new batteries or other industrial products—reducing the need for raw mining and cutting down on environmental destruction.
Fun fact: Over 95% of a lead-acid battery can be recycled and reused!
Prevents Illegal Dumping and Fires
Improper disposal or storage of dead batteries is a leading cause of fires in trash trucks and recycling plants. Lithium-ion batteries are especially dangerous when thrown into regular bins. Recycling:
- Prevents unexpected combustion during waste processing.
- Reduces municipal hazards and costs.
- Keeps your community safer.
You May Be Legally Required to Recycle
Many states and countries enforce strict regulations regarding battery disposal. In the U.S., for example:
- The Battery Act requires proper disposal of rechargeable batteries.
- In some states, retailers must accept old batteries when you purchase a new one.
- Violating these laws can lead to fines or legal action.
By recycling, you stay compliant and responsible.
Recycling Supports a Circular Economy
A circular economy aims to keep products and materials in use longer—which is exactly what happens when you use a NOCO smart charger followed by proper recycling. This approach:
- Minimizes waste.
- Supports sustainable manufacturing.
- Reduces carbon emissions from raw material extraction.
It’s a win for you, your wallet, and the planet.
Tips for Getting the Most Life Out of Your Battery Before Recycling
Recycling your battery responsibly is the final step—but getting the maximum lifespan before that point is where smart ownership really begins. Whether you’re using a NOCO Genius1, Genius2, Genius5, or Genius10, these tips will help you squeeze the most value out of your battery before it’s time to recycle.
Use a Smart Charger Regularly
The NOCO Genius line isn’t just about charging—it’s about maintaining:
- Automatic voltage detection adjusts charging based on battery needs.
- Maintenance mode (or float mode) keeps your battery topped up without overcharging.
- Thermal monitoring prevents overheating and battery stress.
Use the Genius1 or Genius2 for smaller batteries (motorcycles, ATVs), and the Genius10 for larger ones (RVs, trucks, deep-cycle batteries).
Avoid Deep Discharges
One of the fastest ways to ruin a battery is to let it drop too low too often. Aim to:
- Keep charge levels above 50%, especially with lead-acid and AGM batteries.
- Recharge after each use if your vehicle or equipment isn’t being driven daily.
- For lithium batteries, never let them discharge completely.
NOCO smart chargers can revive deeply discharged batteries, but consistent abuse will still shorten lifespan.
Keep It Clean and Secure
Dust, corrosion, and poor cable connections strain your battery. Regular maintenance includes:
- Cleaning terminals with baking soda and water.
- Checking for corrosion or leaks.
- Ensuring your battery is secured to prevent vibration damage.
A clean battery is a longer-lasting battery.
Store Batteries Correctly During Off-Seasons
If you’re storing a vehicle for winter or an extended period:
- Use a NOCO Genius charger in maintenance mode.
- Store the battery in a cool, dry, and ventilated location.
- Disconnect the battery if not using a maintainer to reduce phantom drain.
Proper storage prevents sulfation and freezing damage.
Monitor Battery Health
Don’t wait until your battery dies unexpectedly. Instead:
- Use the NOCO Genius’ LED indicators to check charge levels.
- Consider a separate battery tester to assess voltage and internal resistance.
- Replace the battery before failure to avoid being stranded or risking damage to electronics.
Taking good care of your battery delays recycling—but also makes sure the recycling is worth it by ensuring your battery lived a full, productive life.
Conclusion
Yes, NOCO does its part in supporting battery recycling—even if it doesn’t run a direct recycling program. Through partnerships, educational resources, and promoting sustainable battery care, the company makes it easier for users to recycle responsibly.
But the story doesn’t end there.
Recycling is just one piece of the battery lifecycle. Using a smart charger like the NOCO Genius10 or Genius5 helps extend battery life, minimize environmental waste, and lower your long-term costs. Coupled with responsible disposal, this approach supports a cleaner, more sustainable planet.
So if you’re using a NOCO product—or planning to—you’re already ahead of the curve. You’re keeping your battery healthier for longer, and when it’s finally time to let go, you’re doing it the right way.
Frequently Asked Questions About NOCO’s Battery Recycling Program
Does NOCO offer a battery recycling program?
NOCO does not operate its own battery recycling program. However, they strongly encourage responsible recycling by partnering with battery retailers, providing resources, and designing smart chargers that extend battery life—reducing waste and supporting sustainability.
Where can I recycle my battery if I use NOCO products?
You can recycle your old battery at:
- Auto parts stores (AutoZone, Advance Auto Parts, O’Reilly, etc.)
- Retail chains like Walmart or Costco (if they sell car batteries)
- Municipal hazardous waste centers
- Recycling depots listed on Call2Recycle.org or Earth911.com
These locations often accept used batteries, especially if you’re buying a new one.
Do NOCO smart chargers reduce the need for battery recycling?
While NOCO smart chargers like the Genius1, Genius5, and Genius10 don’t eliminate recycling, they extend battery lifespan significantly, delaying the need for replacement. They also help revive batteries that might otherwise be discarded too early.
Are battery chargers recyclable?
Chargers like NOCO Genius models are electronic devices, not batteries. While they’re not typically recycled at the same places as batteries, e-waste collection centers often accept them. Check with your local electronic waste program.
Why is it important to recycle batteries even if they still work?
Batteries may still hold a charge but degrade internally over time. Old or unstable batteries can:
- Leak toxic chemicals
- Cause damage to electronics
- Fail unexpectedly
Recycling ensures safe disposal and material recovery—even for partially working batteries.
What type of batteries can I recycle?
You can recycle:
- Lead-acid car batteries
- AGM and deep-cycle batteries
- Lithium-ion batteries
- Rechargeable household batteries (NiMH, NiCd, etc.)
Most recycling programs do not accept alkaline (non-rechargeable) batteries unless stated otherwise.