Rechargeable Torch

[Maydup]

In the spring I bought one of these rechargeable emergncy torches but now I'm having trouble with it. The idea is it sits in the cradle on charge and emits a night light. In a power cut it you can find it easily and have a charged torch ready to go.

http://www.clasohlson.com/uk/Emergency-Light-Torch/18-2876

All worked well until the night light went out a few weeks ago. At great cost I replaced the rechargeable batteries and all was well again. Tonight there is no life in it again. It emits no night light and no torch beam at all.

I have checked a different power socket and still no joy. Any ideas?

[Buenchico]

That web page says 'Minimum 2 year guarantee', so I'd complain to Clas Ohlson.

[tonyav]

I'd do has Chris suggests. Has the charger got a little light on it to say that it is charging ?. Maybe the charger is up the creek.

[Maydup]

Will I need the receipt Chris? Its long gone, but I will try my luck without it as I work very close to the branch.

No lights at all Tony. The charger didn't have a light, in the begining only a small light on the torch which is no longer shining. Maybe it is the charger.

How does the thing work anyway? There is no metal contact between the torch and the charger, both parts are rubberised.

[Gizmonster]

Sorry, but I can't help with the faulty torch, but have you considered a wind up torch??
They don't have a night light, but I'm sure you could still find it in a power cut. We've got one and if it's been wound before hand, it'll be ready to go - it won't discharge unless it's switched on.
Highly recommended :)

[marval]

We have a couple of wind up torches as well Gizmonster, they are brilliant. No night light with them though.

[Gizmonster]

Yea I highly recommend them - no batteries needed, no charging needed, just a minute or so of winding, gives quite a decent amount of light.
We got ours from Boots, but I've just had a quick look on their website and the only one they sell, is a wind up radio with torch.
I'm sure there are lots available out there elsewhere ............

[gingejbee]

@maydup; wireless (or induction) charging is now commonplace....rechargeable electric toothbrushes use it... search .
"induction charging" for full info.
I have a similar item (actually it's like clasohlsen's £19.99 unit) from Lidl. It was £7.99 nearly three years ago and works faultlessly. You must have been unlucky with yours...try for a replacement or refund.

[Maydup]

Thank you all... i took the torch back today and without receipt or hesitation they exchanged it for a new one. RESULT

I will consider a wind up torch as well, that's a really good idea. The attraction of this one is being able to locate it in the dark. In the countryside we are prone to power cuts and without it, we stumble around feeling for the torches when the lights go out.

[gingejbee]

Excellent result! Can I suggest that you actually use the torch on occasions (even if you don't need to)...just switch it on for a few hours to get the battery low on power, then fully charge again. This should ensure the battery doesn't give up too soon!

[Maydup]

OK will do ginge.

[DaisyNonna]

I have a great portable lantern which remains on the floor at the side of my bed in case of need. Marked the HOME VALET company, battery operated, bought in a charity shop for £1. Gives out very strong light. Excellent buy.

[Maydup]

Well I have my new torch on charge now in its cradle. I'll test it tomorrow once its had its 15 hours charge time, but the night light is working already so far so good.

[gingejbee]

@methyl....how "dated" my advice is, depends on how "modern" the batteries are. With Li-ion batteries the need for an occasional "discharge-charge" cycle is obviated. However, since these batteries failed early and were easily replaced, they may well be Ni-MH...in which case the occasional usage cycle could be beneficial. It certainly won't harm - after all, this is a torch and was meant to be used!
Also, note that I said "low on power"...NOT "flatten". Never a good idea to completely discharge a rechargeable, I agree.