Rechargeable batteries query

[MichaelF]

I use rechargeable Ni-MH batteries in my camera.

When they are being recharged, they get quite hot towards the end of the charging period, almost too hot to hold, maybe around 45 or 50°C.

1. Is this normal, and safe?

2. What is the optimum charging temperature? Is it best to allow them to get this hot while charging, or is it better to charge them in a colder place so that they are able to keep cool off as they charge? Or would it be better to insulate them so they can get even hotter as they charge?

Thanks!

[Bobolink44]

Hi Michael, the batteries do get hot when charging, however, I've heard they're not supposed to be so hot and that a cheap charger is to blame. Also, check your charger handles NiMH batteries as that could also cause an overheating. You don't want to charge an NiMH battery in a charger designed only for NiCads.

[MichaelF]

Thanks!

It is a dedicated Ni-MH charger "Fujifilm Ni-MH Battery Charger Model BC-NH01"