Do’s and don’ts to remember while charging your laptop

Most of us charge our laptops every day without thinking twice about it. We usually just plug them in, go about our day, and unplug them when the battery’s fully charged. But did you know that your charging habits can really affect your laptop’s battery health and lifespan? Learning how to charge your laptop the right way can help avoid battery issues, keep it running smoothly, and even save you some cash over time. So, here are some do’s and don’ts of charging your laptop to make sure you get the most out of your device!

Laptop charging: Do's

1. Use the original charger

Always use the charger that came with your laptop or one that’s recommended by the manufacturer. Sticking to the original or compatible charger is important because using a third-party or unauthorised charger can damage your laptop’s battery and other components. 

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Furthermore, third-party or duplicate chargers might not provide the right voltage, which can lead to overheating or damage over time.

2. Charge it on a hard surface

When it’s time to charge your laptop, make sure you do it on a hard, flat surface instead of soft spots like pillows or blankets. Soft surfaces can trap heat, preventing proper airflow and cooling. This trapped heat can lead to overheating, which is not only uncomfortable but can also damage your laptop’s internal parts.

3. Avoid extreme temperatures

Keep your laptop away from extreme heat or cold. Excessive heat can cause serious damage to the battery, while extreme cold can limit its capacity. For example, if you leave your laptop in a hot car or use it in cold/freezing conditions, you’re risking its performance and longevity.

4. Consider battery health

 If you’re worried about maintaining your laptop’s battery health, consider discharging it to below 20% before plugging it back in. This practice can help keep the battery’s capacity intact.

5. Check for swelling

Keep an eye on your laptop’s battery. If you notice it’s swollen or bulging, stop using it immediately and get it checked out by a professional. A swollen battery isn’t just a sign of wear and tear; it can also pose a safety risk, so don’t take any chances!

Laptop charging: Don'ts

1. Don’t charge it while using it

Avoid charging your laptop while you’re using it for demanding tasks like gaming or video editing. This can generate a lot of heat, which can stress the battery and lead to overheating. If you really need to charge while working, try to keep the usage light or take breaks to let it cool down.

2. Don’t charge it on your lap

It might be convenient to use your laptop on your lap, but this can trap heat and hinder proper cooling. When the laptop overheats, it can lead to damage over time. Instead, find a flat surface like a table or a desk where the laptop can cool properly while it charges.

3. Don’t leave it plugged in 24/7

Even though most laptops are designed to handle being plugged in, it’s best to avoid leaving it charging all the time. 

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This habit can contribute to battery degradation over the long haul. Instead, unplug it once it’s fully charged to help maintain its health.

4. Don’t use damaged chargers or cables

If your charger or cable is looking worse for wear, replace it right away. Using damaged accessories isn’t just risky, it can also damage your laptop. A frayed cable can cause power fluctuations, which can lead to more serious issues down the line.

5. Don’t overcharge it

Even though most modern laptops have built-in protection against overcharging, it’s still a smart idea to unplug your laptop once it’s about 90% charged. Leaving it plugged in for too long can degrade the battery over time.

By taking the above precautions, you should be able to keep the laptop battery healthy for long, and as a result, enjoy superior battery backup on your laptop.