Could you recommend some compatible batteries? I'm going to buy 8 of them.  Thanks, George

Thanks,   Jeff

Answer   #2:
Jeff  -  We are not familiar with this charger, however if Ray-O-Vac states that this charger will charge NiMH batteries, we can only assume that it will.
How well, how fast as you noted is the big concern . We can tell you that you can not charge the rechargeable alkaline batteries in an NiMH charger that is not designed for them due to the internal resistance of the battery cells. But this doesn't mean that it is not possible to design a charger that will charge both, but from our experience it is best to use a charger that is designed for NiMH batteries exclusively for optimum performance and safety.

This is pretty much normal. Nimh batteries can reach as high as 130 degrees during a charge cycle as pointed out by most manufacturers. The amount of discharge and of course the rate of charge will affect this.  However it is always best to try to prevent as much heat build up as possible.

This is why we recommend the following

1. Do not close the cover ( if your charger has one ) while your batteries are charging. It is best to allow any heat to dissipate as much as possible.  Common sense usually should dictate this.  Covers are normally meant to keep your contacts and charger clean while not in use.

2. You may wish to us a small fan to help keep the batteries cool, and prevent excessive heat build up.

I have a question about Ni-MH batteries. Do they really require a special charger (other than those designed to recharge Ni-Cd batteries, or is that just a marketing ploy by the manufacturers of the chargers? I looked at a charger that has separate settings for both Ni-Cd and Ni-MH batteries, and it appears that the mA output is the same for both settings.

Thanks for shedding light on my questions.    - Brian F. Sacramento, CA

1. Improper charging or using a charger that is not specifically designed to charge any rechargeable battery can cause their useful life to be shortened dramatically or in some cases actually damage them permanently. We have even had some individuals attempt to charge rechargeable alkaline batteries in some of our chargers and were surprised when they exploded.

2. Although a NiCD charger may seem to be charging NiMH batteries fine, this is not usually the case. NiMH chargers are specifically designed to prevent Hydrogen bubbles from forming on the battery plates and of course to charge them to their full potential. Basically you should always use the type of charger recommended for your type of batteries.