Is it safe to leave my AA batteries on my external flash? I typically use the flash once a week.?

Answer 1

If using modern Alkaline batteries, that depends on the manufacturer. If you only use your flash once per week, and you are using store-brand or Duracell batteries, I would remove the batteries. Duracell batteries, as well as any of the high capacity alkaline cells, love to leak. I'm trying out Panasonic batteries (lower capacity than Duracell) for things that sit around for a couple years and haven't had any leakage issues, however, the experiment is only two years old.

If using good quality NiMH batteries, they seem to be very robust. I haven't had any leak on me in the past 10 years. I leave my NiMH batteries in my flash and flashlights without worry.

Answer 2

I have torches (flashlights, American-style) which have had alkaline batteries in for months or years, very seldom used. The batteries have not leaked.

Answer 3

Id take em out just to avoid the chance of them leaking. Why take the chance?

Answer 4

In your specific case, yes because you're using the flash so frequently. Otherwise, it's recommended to keep the batteries out of the device if it's not going to be used for more than 1 month.

Answer 5

Yes, but it's a good idea to remove them and check for leakage once a month.

Answer 6

Yes - I leave mine for weeks or months at a time. That said, I always replace all the batteries at the same time, using fresh batteries from the same manufacturer. Most problems arise when you've got dead batteries and / or batteries with different charge levels.