SOLVED. Looking for Kitchen Scales That Don't Hate Eneloops

Russ on 16/02/2018 - 11:19
Last edited 16/02/2018 - 11:50 by 1 other user

Anyone know of a reasonably-priced kitchen scale that is happy to run from eneloop or other NiMh batteries?

I have a scale that works when the batteries are recently charged, but refuses to work when the AAA batteries drop below 1.3V, so I have to recharge every two weeks. That annoys me, so I'm looking for a better set of scales. Unfortunately scales don't list compatibility with NiMh batteries on the packaging, so I'm asking OzBargain's advice.

I am hoping for 1g resolution, at least 1kg max weight. I use it for my diet, to make the portions the right size. Either AA or AAA NiMh batteries are fine. The platter needs to be large enough to put a standard breakfast/dessert bowl on.

Electrical & Electronics Bathroom Scale

Comments

  • D C on 16/02/2018 - 11:26

    I got a set like this: https://www.bigw.com.au/product/propert-5-kg-slimline-glass-… from Aldi years ago. Under $10.

    Uses lithium coin cells CR2032, they last for ages. 5kg with 1g resolution.

    Edit: has a keyhole underneath so you can hang it on a hook to get it out of the way. I stick mine onto the side of the microwave with one of those suction hook thingys.

    • Russ on 16/02/2018 - 11:46

      Thanks, but I'm trying to use only rechargeable batteries. For economic and green reasons.

      • D C on 16/02/2018 - 12:24
        +3

        Using rechargeable batteries in kitchen scales is what we call a false economy.

        It's neither economic or green.

        • Russ on 16/02/2018 - 19:18

          Well, we'll have to agree to disagree.

          I go to Aldi regularly, where they accept batteries for recycling - but not coin cells. Aldi actually sort the returned batteries into their various chemistries before sending them to the recycling plants, so all of the steel and nickel in NiMh batteries will be re-used. Compare with a lithium coin cell, where I would have to make a special trip to a recycler who will accept them, and even then, only the steel will be recycled, not the lithium.

          For economy, 2xAAA NiMh batteries cost me between $2.50 and $3.00. If the battery goes flat, I can borrow some NiMh batteries from a remote control or similar. The NiMh batteries I bought in 2012 (my first OzB post!) are still going strong, I expect I'll get at least ten years from them, more likely twenty years. If I use a coin cell, I will have to make a trip to the shops, where coin cells seem to only be sold in pairs, the cost is more than $3, and the battery probably won't last as long.

          It may be different for your situation, but for me, NiMh batteries are more convenient, more green, and more economical. I also like the fact that when they go flat, they don't melt down inside your equipment.

  • adr8 on 16/02/2018 - 11:33
    +2

    I use this with NiMH batteries https://www.ebay.com.au/itm/10kg-1g-Precision-Electronic-Dig…

    • Russ on 16/02/2018 - 11:48

      That looks good, I'll buy that one.

      Wow, I wasn't expecting so many answers in less than half an hour!

      • adr8 on 16/02/2018 - 11:52
        +1

        Do a proper search on eBay as you may find it cheaper I only posted the first one I saw. There is also 5kg version that is identical.

        • Russ on 16/02/2018 - 11:58

          Thanks, I always do that nowadays. After a few times buying in haste and later finding the item at a lower price, I learned.

        • c64 on 16/02/2018 - 12:02
          +1

          i've got a 5kg version similar to https://www.ebay.com.au/itm/5kg-LCD-Digital-Electric-Kitchen… but it uses AAA batteries. runs fine on eneloops (i use it regularly, also for counting calories). i thinks an AA one would be nicer.

          i've never needed to weigh anywhere near 5kg, let alone 10kg.

          mine is suprisingly accurate. i've got a set of test weights and it is always spot on.

        • Russ on 16/02/2018 - 19:27

          @mtg:
          That one you linked to, is the exact model I currently have, and it doesn't like NiMh batteries. You say "similar", so is the model you have still available?

          I'd like AA batteries in more things too, it seems stupid that AAA batteries are used when there is plenty of space to fit AA batteries. Maybe in some other countries AAA batteries are cheaper then AA batteries?

        • c64 on 16/02/2018 - 20:56
          +1

          @Russ:
          That one you linked to, is the exact model I currently have, and it doesn't like NiMh batteries. You say "similar", so is the model you have still available?

          Similar = looks like that. I bought mine a long time ago. If that doesn't perform well for you then a maybe an AA model will be better.

          I agree about the small batteries thing. I've replaced the coin battery in my bathroom scales by soldering in a 2 x AA battery holder. It is not as elegant with a separate battery pack underneath the scales, but it last much longer and I don't need to have a stock a coin batteries at hand.

  • RockyRaccoon on 16/02/2018 - 11:35
    +1

    Whats the deal.

    How long do alkaline or cabon batteries last?

    Is it worth updating your scales given that Alkaline could last up to a year. AAA Nimh batteries dont have much power even when charged

    • Russ on 16/02/2018 - 11:44

      AAA Nimh batteries dont have much power even when charged

      Actually, it's not that different. AAA Energizer (E92) have less than 1100mAh, when discharged down to 1.1V. NiMh AAA have 850-900mAh.

      I got my data from here, it's the datasheet for an Energizer AAA: http://data.energizer.com/PDFs/E92.pdf

      • RockyRaccoon on 16/02/2018 - 11:57
        +1

        Maybe true, but do you have a charger than can confirm what your AAA's are holding? You might be surprised. A number iof my 800 -800mAh units will only hold 400mAh when fully charged whereas new alkalines give the 1100.

        • Russ on 16/02/2018 - 11:59

          Yes, I have a LiitoKala Lii-500 and a Maha MH-9000. Both have test modes.

  • retiredfeline on 16/02/2018 - 11:40
    +1

    I've got alkalines in my kitchen scale and I still haven't replaced them after several years.

    • c64 on 16/02/2018 - 20:37

      i suppose it depends on how often you use the scales. i'm using it many times every day

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