Batteries being drained in simple circuit...

[extremesanity]

I'm trying to fix a battery powered light for my girlfriend but it
appears the batteries are being drained even when the light is not on.

It is really simple, two AA batteries for a total of 3 volts, a switch
and a bulb. I've put 3 sets of batteries in but they all die within a
week with minimal usage of the light.

How is this possible and how can I troubleshoot the problem?

 

[Textool]

Have the batteries leaked inside this light before? If so, the substance could
be conductive enough to drain the new batteries. Try cleaning it out with
isopropyl alcohol and a tooth brush.

David H

<< I'm trying to fix a battery powered light for my girlfriend but it appears
the batteries are being drained even when the light is not on. >>

 

If I were you I would just buy a new flashlight. It'll be less
expensive - both in time, fustration, and parts (batteries for
instance).

If you're using rechargeable batteries, buy new ones... And regular
batteries will last a little longer.
In the case you're trying to impress your girlfriend, your problem is
probably a short. Somehow the positive side of the battery closest to
the bulb and the negative side of the other battery at the other end
are touching.

Good luck,

--Rob

checkpoint2@extremesanity.com (extremesanity) wrote in message news:<b1d036f7.0402071859.639bfdf1@posting.google.com>...

I'm trying to fix a battery powered light for my girlfriend but it
appears the batteries are being drained even when the light is not on.

It is really simple, two AA batteries for a total of 3 volts, a switch
and a bulb. I've put 3 sets of batteries in but they all die within a
week with minimal usage of the light.

How is this possible and how can I troubleshoot the problem?

 

[Cornholio]

Probably either the flashlight body or part of the switch material is
slightly conductive. I have seen switches absorb moisture and create
slightly conductive paths between the terminals. Also, moisture or
contamination could have gotten inside and corroded, creating leakage
paths. It probably isn't worth fixing. If it is an expensive
flashlight you might try flushing it out with electronics cleaner and
opening it up and baking the parts in an oven at something like 150F
for a couple hours.

On 7 Feb 2004 18:59:31 -0800, checkpoint2@extremesanity.com
(extremesanity) wrote:

I'm trying to fix a battery powered light for my girlfriend but it
appears the batteries are being drained even when the light is not on.

It is really simple, two AA batteries for a total of 3 volts, a switch
and a bulb. I've put 3 sets of batteries in but they all die within a
week with minimal usage of the light.

How is this possible and how can I troubleshoot the problem?