Are you tired of having to run to the store every time your batteries die? I agree. Until one day, I discovered a hack that dramatically changed how I utilized my remotes. And the best part? It is simple, inexpensive, and quite pleasurable to do yourself.
The battery puzzle: a minor issue with a significant budget. You know the feeling: sitting on the couch, preparing to start your favorite movie. When your remote refuses to answer. Once again, the batteries have died. Between the TV, the fan, and the children’s toys, those small batteries add up to an unexpected cost without our understanding.
Rather than purchasing additional batteries, why not replace them permanently? A DIY method for a rechargeable remote control. The solution is surprisingly simple. To convert your standard remote control into a rechargeable device, you’ll need the following: A small rechargeable battery (3.7V lithium-based, such as a 14500 or equivalent). A USB charging module (type TP4056, readily available on online sales sites)
A diode (e.g., a 1N4007) to adjust the voltage as required. Only a little patience is required! The goal is to remove the standard batteries and solder the battery wires to their place. If you add a small micro-USB or USB-C port to the case (such as on the back), your remote control will be rechargeable, exactly like a smartphone. Convenient, right?
For those who are intrigued, here is the Bluetooth version. Want to go a step further? It is even possible to convert a remote control into a Bluetooth-enabled device. This solution requires a little more skill: you must integrate a microcontroller (such as an ESP32) and completely reprogram the circuit. This is another tour appropriate for individuals who appreciate electronics and DIY. However, if you merely want to eliminate the requirement for batteries, the first solution will suffice.
A modest gesture for you; a real stride for the earth. Every year, France discards hundreds of millions of batteries. Even if they are partially recycled, their creation is extremely energy intensive. Choosing a rechargeable remote control, even for a basic household device, is a practical step toward more responsible living. And, let’s be honest, there’s a real sense of accomplishment in utilizing something you made yourself. It is reviving a quiet living room companion.