I use regular alkaline batteries and run them all the way down to where the backlight does not come on. Then I change them.
What is nice is the regular batteries show on the 3 part power icon.
Also, I do use an external charger unit for the rechargeable batteries. The base charger is turned off and/or put a piece of black electrical tape on the contacts if I forget that I had regular alkaline batteries in the remote.
Getting to that age of forgetfullness!