If you’re having trouble with your laptop battery or charger, there are a few signs you can look for to determine if they are bad. For the battery, you may notice that it is not holding a charge for as long as it used to, or that it is draining quickly even when not in use. For the charger, you may notice that it is not charging the battery at all, or that it is taking much longer than usual to charge. In some cases, you may also notice that the charger is making strange noises or emitting a burning smell.
In this article, we will explore ways to determine if your laptop battery or charger is malfunctioning. Few things are more frustrating than a laptop that won’t hold a charge or won’t turn on at all. By following a few simple steps, you can save yourself time and money by identifying the issue and taking appropriate action. Let’s get started!
How to check your laptop battery’s health
The lifespan of a laptop battery varies depending on factors such as usage and the quality of the battery. However, there are a few ways you can check the health of your laptop battery to see if it is in good condition or needs to be replaced.
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Battery health check software
One way to check your laptop battery’s health is by using battery health check software. This type of software can give you an estimate of the battery’s health and how long it will last. Some laptop manufacturers offer their own battery health check software, while others rely on third-party programs.
Battery capacity test
Another way to check your laptop battery’s health is to perform a capacity test. This involves fully charging the battery, then running a program that drains the battery until it reaches a specific percentage, such as 50%. If the battery can still hold a charge close to its original capacity, it is likely still in good condition. However, if the battery is not holding a charge as well as it used to, it may be time to replace it.
How to check your laptop charger
If you suspect that your laptop charger is not working properly, there are a few things you can check to determine if it is the cause of your laptop’s issues.
A laptop battery may display signs like not holding a charge for as long as it used to or draining quickly even when not in use, while a laptop charger can be checked by ensuring the power outlet is working or by using a multimeter to test the voltage. Using battery health check software or performing a capacity test can help determine the health of a laptop battery, and once it’s time to replace either the charger or battery, it’s important to choose the correct replacement parts.
Check the power outlet
Before assuming that your laptop charger is at fault, make sure that the power outlet you are using is working. Plug another device into the outlet to see if it is receiving power.
Check the charger’s LED light
Many laptop chargers have an LED light on the box that indicates whether or not the charger is receiving power. If the light is not on, the charger may not be working properly.
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Check the charger’s voltage
Using a multimeter, you can check the voltage of your laptop charger to see if it is providing the correct amount of power. If the voltage is too low or too high, the charger may be defective.
When to replace your laptop battery or charger
If your laptop battery or charger is not working properly, you may need to replace it. Here are a few signs that it is time to replace your laptop’s battery or charger:
Battery
- The battery is not holding a charge for as long as it used to.
- The battery is draining quickly even when not in use.
- The laptop shuts down suddenly when the battery reaches a certain percentage.
- The battery is swollen or leaking.
Charger
- The charger is not charging the battery at all.
- The charger is taking much longer than usual to charge the battery.
- The charger is making strange noises or emitting a burning smell.
- The charger’s LED light is not on.
In conclusion, knowing how to tell if your laptop battery or charger is bad can save you a lot of frustration and inconvenience. By keeping an eye out for the signs listed above, you can determine whether it is time to replace your laptop’s battery or charger and get your device working properly again.
FAQs for How to Tell if Laptop Battery or Charger Is Bad
How can I tell if my laptop battery is bad?
There are a few signs that your laptop battery is no longer working properly. One of the biggest indicators is that it doesn’t hold a charge as long as it used to. If you find yourself having to charge your laptop more frequently than usual, or if it dies quickly after being unplugged, it could be a sign that the battery is going bad. Additionally, if the battery is physically damaged or bulging, that is a clear sign that it needs to be replaced.
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What if my laptop won’t turn on at all?
If your laptop won’t turn on at all, it could be due to a bad battery or a bad charger. The first thing to try is to remove the battery and plug your laptop directly into the charger. If it turns on, then the problem was likely a bad battery. If it still doesn’t turn on, then the charger is likely the issue.
Can a bad charger damage my laptop?
Yes, a bad charger can definitely damage your laptop. In fact, using a charger that is not specifically designed for your laptop can cause all sorts of problems, including damage to your battery, motherboard, and other internal components. If you suspect that your charger is bad, it’s important to stop using it right away to avoid damaging your device.
How can I tell if my laptop charger is bad?
Similar to a bad battery, a bad charger can cause your laptop to not charge properly or at all. You may notice that your laptop only charges when the charger is in a certain position, or that it is charging very slowly. Another sign of a bad charger is if the cable is frayed or damaged in any way. It’s also possible for the charging port on your laptop to become damaged, which can make it difficult for the charger to connect properly.
What should I do if I suspect my laptop battery or charger is bad?
If you suspect that your laptop battery or charger is bad, the first thing to do is to stop using it immediately. Continuing to use a bad battery or charger can cause even more damage to your device. Instead, you should try to identify the source of the problem and replace the faulty component as soon as possible. If you’re not sure if the battery or charger is the issue, it’s a good idea to take your laptop to a professional for diagnosis and repair.
Battery industry professional with 5+ years of experience. Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering from Georgia Tech. Specializes in power systems and renewable energy.