I have a plane, actually two planes, with two 1200 mah NiMh 6 volt packs each, that have been basically ignored for about a year. After the original post, I checked them out. All four batteries (two per plane) are just fine. They were a tad low in voltage, but they are looking good on the recharge (fast charge).

This is not an endorcement for outright using batteries that have sat around for a while. The point is that not all of them will go bad if not used. The best bet, before flying with them, is to give them a good check out, a charge, and possibly a cycle charge, and, if they look good, well, fly with them.

I have a pair of LiFe packs that I bought last year. They have sat around also. But, they both are just fine and, after a short charge on my Triton 2 EQ, are right up there and ready to fly with.

Check them, and don't be afraid to replace them if needed, yet don't be afraid to use them if they do check ok.

Heck, I have a couple of real old NiCd packs that sat around for a while and some took a charge just fine.. others, well, they found their way to the recycle bin.

One point, though.. if you are reluctant about batteries you don't trust, do not hesitate to replace them. Peace of mind is a good thing when it comes to our aircraft electrical power sources.

CGr.