Remote control hack: Aluminum foil trick revives dead batteries

Batteries in the remote control most often stop working at the least expected moment. Many people start taking out the batteries or shaking the device, but these methods are ineffective. Here’s how you can quickly replace the batteries without immediately going to the store for new ones.

A battery is nothing more than a galvanic cell, an electrochemical device that converts chemical energy into electrical energy. Thanks to this, our remote controls and other battery-operated devices can work without plugging into an outlet. The operation of a battery is based on two poles: positive (+) and negative (-). Therefore, it is essential to insert the battery correctly according to the poles to ensure the device operates properly.

Many people confuse batteries with accumulators, but they are different devices. Accumulators are reusable and can be recharged, which is impossible with regular batteries. How is electricity generated in a battery? Energy is released from the "+" pole and returns through the "-" pole. The current in a battery is only 1.5 V and does not pose a threat to us, unlike 120 V from a wall outlet in the US. Therefore, we can find a way to replace the batteries without purchasing new ones.

When the remote control stops working and you don’t have time to go shopping, there is an alternative way. Just reach into the kitchen for aluminum foil, which has many uses around the house. Besides keeping food warm and cleaning dirty surfaces, it can replace used-up batteries. How does it work?

Roll a piece of aluminum foil into the shape of a battery and then insert it into the remote control. The foil must touch the metal springs in the device. This way, the remote control will start working without buying new batteries. This method will work for a while but will not wholly replace standard batteries in the long term.