Alex Ruben
Fix Laptop Battery Plugged in But Not Charging on Windows 10
This guide provides a step-by-step tutorial on troubleshooting the issue of your laptop’s battery being plugged in but not charging. You will learn key strategies to diagnose and resolve the problem efficiently, ensuring your device operates smoothly.
Step 1: Check the Power Source
Ensure that your laptop is plugged in and that the power cable and adapter are in good condition. Look for any visible damage or disconnections in the cable and adapter.
Step 2: Inspect the Battery
Confirm that the battery is properly seated in your laptop. If it can be removed, take it out and place it back securely. Additionally, use your laptop’s built-in tools to check the battery health.
Step 3: Update the BIOS
Check for any available BIOS updates for your laptop model. An updated BIOS can help in the recognition of the AC adapter. Visit the manufacturer’s website for guidelines on how to update your BIOS.
Step 4: Update Drivers
Go to Device Manager and ensure that all drivers, especially the ones related to battery and power management, are up to date. Right-click on each driver and select Update driver to check for updates.
Step 5: Restart Your Computer
Sometimes, a simple restart can resolve various issues. Restart your laptop and see if the battery charging problem persists.
Step 6: Run the Power Troubleshooter
Navigate to Settings > Update & Security > Troubleshoot, then choose Additional troubleshooters. Scroll down, select Power, and click Run the troubleshooter.
Step 7: Check Charging Ports, Cables, and Outlets
Inspect the charging ports on your laptop, the cables, and the power outlet to ensure they are functioning properly. Try using a different outlet or cable if available.
Step 8: Check Battery Charge Threshold
If your laptop charges only to a certain percentage (e.g. 80%), you may have set a battery charge threshold in the battery settings. Check your laptop’s power management settings to adjust this.
Step 9: Boot Without the Battery
If feasible, try booting the laptop without the battery inserted. This can help identify if the battery itself is faulty or if the issue lies with the laptop’s charging system.
Step 10: Consider Replacing the Battery
For older laptops, the battery may be reaching the end of its life. If none of the previous steps resolve the issue, consider replacing the battery with a new one.
Extra Tips & Common Issues
Ensure you avoid leaving your laptop plugged in all the time, as this can affect battery health over time. Regularly check battery settings and charge cycles to ensure optimal performance.
Conclusion
By following these steps, you should be able to troubleshoot and fix the issue of your laptop battery being plugged in but not charging. Remember to carry out regular maintenance to keep your device running efficiently.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I do if my laptop won’t recognize the battery?
Ensure the battery is correctly installed, and check for any BIOS updates that may improve compatibility.
Can using a different power adapter affect charging?
Yes, using an incompatible or lower wattage adapter can lead to charging issues. Always use the manufacturer’s recommended power adapter.
What if the battery health shows ‘Poor’?
If your battery health is poor, it’s advisable to replace the battery to maintain optimal performance of your laptop.
