Don’t Toss That Power Bank! 5 Genius New Uses
▼ Summary
– Power banks are highly convenient for charging phones on the go, with top models capable of multiple charges.
– Even aging power banks that are mostly functional can be repurposed as safety tools or camping accessories.
– Old power banks that are losing their charge-holding ability should be replaced with newer models.
– You should only repurpose an old power bank if it remains in fairly good condition.
– A completely dead or swollen power bank must be taken to an electronics recycling center for safe disposal.
That trusty old power bank sitting in your drawer might seem past its prime, but before you consider it electronic waste, think again. Even a power bank with diminished capacity can be repurposed into a surprisingly useful tool for safety, travel, and everyday convenience. While a newer model is essential for reliable phone charging, an older unit that still holds some power shouldn’t be destined for the trash. It’s crucial to assess its condition first; a battery that is completely dead or, more importantly, one that has begun to swell or bulge must be taken to a dedicated electronics recycling facility immediately for safe disposal. Assuming it’s still in decent shape, however, its journey is far from over.
One brilliant application is transforming it into a dedicated emergency light source. By plugging a small, efficient LED light or even a string of fairy lights into the USB port, you create a portable lantern perfect for power outages, camping trips, or keeping in a car glove box. This ensures you always have a reliable, rechargeable light separate from your phone’s battery. Another smart idea is to use it as a permanent power station for a low-drain device. Gadgets like a Bluetooth speaker for the garage, a small desktop fan, or a digital photo frame can run for extended periods on a power bank, freeing up wall outlets and adding portability.
For the frequent traveler, an old power bank becomes an excellent dedicated charger for accessories. Instead of draining your main power bank to top up your wireless earbuds, smartwatch, or travel humidifier, assign that task to the older unit. This organizational trick keeps your essential phone charger at full capacity while ensuring all your smaller gadgets are powered. Furthermore, it can serve as a handy backup for critical safety devices, such as a rechargeable flashlight or a personal safety alarm. Knowing you have a separate, charged power source dedicated to these items provides an extra layer of preparedness.
Finally, consider its role in a tech toolkit. An old power bank is ideal for troubleshooting other devices or providing intermittent power during projects. It can be used to test USB cables, power a Raspberry Pi for a short duration, or keep a soldering iron’s fan running during a quick repair. By giving your aging power bank one of these new roles, you extend its useful life, reduce e-waste, and unlock practical functionality you never knew you needed. Just remember, always monitor its performance and retire it responsibly if it shows any signs of failure.
(Source: BGR)
