Laptop batteries are one of the most crucial components of a computer, but they are frequently ignored and misused. Batteries are fragile items that can be irreversibly destroyed if not handled properly. In this blog post, we’ll look at how laptop batteries get damaged and what you can do to avoid it. There are several methods to limit the longevity of your battery, ranging from overcharging to leaving your laptop on all the time. Continue reading to discover more about how to keep your laptop battery in good working order.
What is a Laptop Battery?
Laptop batteries are made up of rechargeable cells that power the laptop while it is not plugged into an electrical outlet. These cells can become damaged and no longer hold a charge over time, reducing the battery life of the laptop. Laptop batteries can be damaged in a variety of ways, including:
- Overcharging: When a laptop is left plugged into an alternating current (AC) outlet for an extended period of time, the cells in the battery can become overcharged and begin to degrade. This can eventually cause the battery to lose its charge.
- Heat: Excessive heat can harm the cells in a laptop battery, reducing its ability to hold a charge. Laptops used in hot locations or exposed to direct sunlight may be more vulnerable to this type of harm.
- Age: Laptop batteries, like all rechargeable batteries, will gradually lose their ability to hold a charge over time. This is why it’s critical to calibrate your battery on a regular basis (see below) to extend its life.
If you believe that your battery is damaged, you should take precautions to prevent it from additional damage. One method is to calibrate your battery on a regular basis. Calibration of your battery ensures that it charges properly and retains its full capacity.
What Kinds of Laptop Batteries Are There?
Laptop batteries come in a variety of shapes and sizes, each tailored to a specific model of laptop. The following are the most common types of laptop batteries:
- lithium-ion (Li-ion) batteries: These are the most common type of laptop battery because they provide a good balance of price and performance. Li-ion batteries typically last about 2-3 years before they need to be replaced.
- Nickel metal hydride (NiMH) batteries: NiMH batteries are slightly less expensive than Li-ion batteries, but they last only about 1-2 years on average.
- Nickel cadmium (NiCd) batteries: NiCd batteries are the earliest type of laptop battery, however they are now extremely rare because they are significantly less efficient than newer battery types. NiCd batteries typically have a 6-month lifespan before needing to be replaced.
How Do Laptop Batteries Get Damaged?
Laptop batteries can be destroyed in a variety of ways. Overcharging is one of the most common, as it can cause the battery to overheat and eventually degrade. Overcharging the battery, as well as leaving it plugged in for extended periods of time, might reduce its longevity. Other potential causes of damage include exposing the battery to high temperatures, dropping or jarring the laptop, or using an incompatible charger.
How Can I Avoid Laptop Battery Damage?
Laptop batteries might be damaged if they are not properly cared for. There are a few easy actions you can do to protect your laptop battery:
- Extreme temperatures should be avoided. Extreme heat or cold should not be applied to laptop batteries as this can reduce their lifespan.
- Avoid overcharging your battery. When you plug in your laptop, the battery will continue to charge even after it is fully charged. This can cause the battery to be damaged and reduce its capacity over time.
- Don’t let your battery die fully. When possible, keep your laptop plugged in, as allowing the battery to completely drain can also cause damage.
- When not in use, properly store your laptop. When not in use, keep your laptop in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.
Conclusion
Laptop batteries are one of the most vital parts of a laptop, and they can be quickly damaged if not properly cared for. It’s critical to understand how to care for your battery and what indicators to watch for that signal it’s time to replace it. You can keep your laptop battery running like new for years to come with a little bit of information and careful care.
