Every electronic device not using a direct power source, would use a rechargeable battery. The computer for example works with both. While most Desktop computer works with a direct power source, laptop computer on the other hand works with a rechargeable battery. This battery powers the entire system through the motherboard. Though laptop can also run without a battery, which means you’ll have to plug them directly into a power source.

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However, in such case, you have no control over it, as if you suddenly have a power cut, your unsaved work could be gone, and not retrieved. So technically, it’s a bad idea to leave the laptop running on a power source if your electricity is not stable. On the other hand, the laptop battery can get damaged, or aging. The battery can get damaged before growing old, and there are many reasons for this damage. The battery age is calculated in cycles, as you charge them, they grow old, and when they get to a certain cycle, they get drastically reduced in their capacity.

The Battery Cycle and How it Works

The full discharge and recharge of a rechargeable battery are referred to as a battery cycle. It gauges how many complete charge-discharge cycles a battery can withstand before the performance begins to suffer. The cycle entails fully charging the battery, utilizing it until it is all drained, and then charging it once more.

For instance, charging from 0% battery to 100% is one cycle, and if you charge from 50% battery to 100%, you’d have to charge twice at that difference to complete one cycle. This is why devices like iPhones are advised to steer clear of frequent total discharges and maintain the battery level between 20% and 80% to extend battery life and enhance performance.

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Each cycle contributes to the battery’s capacity naturally deteriorating over time. It’s important to remember that contemporary lithium-ion batteries, which are frequently utilized in smartphones, laptops, and other portable devices. Hundreds of cycles may be handled by modern lithium-ion batteries before major deterioration takes place.

Laptops and phones mostly have over 500 cycles. On devices like the Hp or MacBook, you can check your battery cycle count. Once these cycle counts are used up, your battery capacity will drastically reduce and it will drain faster than usual. In smartphones like the iPhone, they do have a 500 battery cycle count, and when it finishes, your battery health will reduce from 80%.

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However, on some occasions, your battery might get degraded even without using up your battery cycle counts or most of it.  Conditions like excessive discharge, high temperatures, and overcharging can quicken the deterioration process even while still having a low cycle count.

Common Causes of Laptop Battery Damage in 2023

Though the battery cycle count tracks the aging of the battery and signifies when it’s due for changes or servicing. However, aging isn’t the only thing that can affect a battery. Other factors will significantly reduce the battery capacity even at an early age. These factors include high temperature or frequently hot computers, overcharging, Deep Discharge, Power surges, and Incompatible chargers.

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High Temperature or Frequently Hot Computer

High temperature can hasten internal chemical processes in battery cells, hastening their deterioration. The capacity and lifespan of the battery are reduced as a result of this degradation. The battery may encounter several problems if it is exposed to heat sources, such as being used on a surface that prevents sufficient ventilation or being left in direct sunlight.

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This occurs because high temperatures can cause the battery to overheat and enter a state known as thermal runaway, which can make the battery unstable and possibly cause it to swell or leak.

Overcharging

Damage to a laptop battery can also be brought on by overcharging. A battery’s capacity and life may be shortened over time if it is continuously charged above its limit, which can result in increased heat production and chemical deterioration.

Although some new laptops typically have built-in safeguards against overcharging, it is still crucial to exercise caution. As was already said, turning off the charger while the battery is between 80 and 90 percent charged can assist avoid overcharging and increase the battery’s overall longevity.

Frequent Deep Discharge

Frequent deep discharge can be detrimental, even if it may occasionally be advised to deep deplete a battery to calibrate its capacity. Deep discharge can result in the battery’s voltage dropping too low, which can result in irreparable harm and a reduction in total capacity.

When a battery is deeply depleted, it stresses its chemical components, which can lead to internal crystallization, electrolyte loss, and decreased performance. The battery shouldn’t be regularly allowed to drop to zero, as this could cause problems.

Power Surges

Every laptop and every electrical gadget has a limit on the amount of power it can supply in terms of voltage. When the electrical voltage supplied to the laptop suddenly and noticeably increases, a power surge happens. These voltage spikes may be brought on by electrical grid issues, malfunctioning outlets, or lightning strikes.

The battery may be overloaded by the increased voltage, which could result in overheating, chemical reactions, and possible battery cell destruction. In extreme circumstances, power surges may even result in the battery swelling, leaking, or becoming useless.

Incompatible Charger

Every laptop has wattage specifications for a reason; if these wattages are twisted, your battery will suffer. A charger that doesn’t provide the laptop with the necessary voltage or wattage might either overcharge or undercharge the battery, stressing it out and shortening its life.

The battery may become overheated or have voltage inconsistencies if you use an alternative low-quality or counterfeit charger that does not offer reliable power. To guarantee appropriate charging and avoid battery damage, it is essential to use the charger made specifically for the laptop model

5 Possible Ways to Repair a Damaged Laptop Battery in 2023

Even though replacing a laptop battery can be expensive, there are a few DIY options you can try before buying a new one.  These techniques, however, only have a 50/50 probability of success. This repair includes: Cleaning the battery contact, Updating battery drivers and firmware, Calibrating the battery, Laptop power management settings, and battery cell replacement.

1. Cleaning the battery contact

When the system gets heated, it’s mostly a result of dust accumulations or heavy workload. If it’s by dust and the fan ceases to work, this dust might have affected the battery too, so if you clean your fan without the battery, it can still have defaults.

The contacts may have the answer you need, so start there. Clean battery contacts by removing the battery and gently wiping the metal contacts with a cloth soaked in rubbing alcohol. This can enhance battery performance by ensuring a strong connection between the battery and the laptop.

2. Updating battery Drivers and Firmware

There are times when outdated or incompatible drivers or firmware are the root of problems with batteries. Updates from manufacturers frequently resolve performance and compatibility problems with batteries.

You can look for any available upgrades particularly for the battery by visiting the manufacturer’s website or utilizing their software applications. The newest firmware and drivers can help fix software-related problems and improve battery performance. When replacing the battery drivers, it’s crucial to adhere to the manufacturer’s guidelines.

3. Calibrating the battery.

This is another laptop battery repair you should go for by consulting the user guide for your particular model of laptop for detailed information on how to adjust the battery. Over time, the battery capacity estimate may degrade, causing issues such as premature discharge or inaccurate battery percentage readings.

The accuracy of the capacity estimation is improved by calibrating the battery. To calibrate the battery, you normally need to fully charge it before using the laptop until the battery is entirely depleted. After that, you continuously recharge it to its original capacity. This procedure offers a more precise measurement of the battery’s real capacity and enables the internal circuitry to readjust.

4. Laptop Power Management Settings

You can reduce wasteful power usage and improve battery life by tweaking power settings. To do this, change settings for the screen’s brightness, timeout, sleep mode, and power-saving modes. To extend battery life, enable power-saving settings, reduce screen brightness, and shorten the screen timeout duration. Additionally, you may save battery power by eliminating or minimizing the use of technologies like Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and background programs.

5. Battery Cells Replacement

Replacing the battery cells can repair a faulty laptop battery, avoiding the need for a new one. Battery life can be shortened as a result of battery cells that deteriorate and lose their ability to hold a charge over time.

You can improve the battery’s performance and lengthen its lifespan by exchanging worn-out cells with new ones. The battery pack must typically be disassembled to replace the old cells with the new ones. The replacement of battery cells, however, necessitates technical skill and should be carried out by a qualified or experienced technician.

Is it possible to repair a laptop battery instead of buying a new one?

Yes, it is possible to repair a laptop battery in certain cases instead of purchasing a new one. Several methods can help restore the battery’s performance and extend its lifespan.

Is it advisable to repair the laptop battery myself?

Repairing the laptop battery yourself is not recommended unless you have the necessary technical expertise. Some repair methods involve disassembling the battery or handling sensitive components, which can be risky if done improperly. It is advisable to seek professional help or consult an experienced technician for battery repairs.

Are all laptop batteries repairable?

Not all laptop batteries are repairable. The repairability of a battery depends on factors such as its condition, age, and the specific issue it is facing. If a battery is severely damaged or worn out, replacement may be the most effective solution.

Can battery repairs guarantee the same performance as a new battery?

While repairs can improve the performance and lifespan of a damaged battery, they may not always match the performance of a new battery. The effectiveness of the repair methods can vary depending on the battery’s condition and the specific repair technique used.

When might a battery replacement be required?

A battery replacement might be required in the following situations: Declining Battery Life, Battery Not Charging, Swollen or Damaged Battery, Battery Error Messages, and Outdated or Obsolete Batter.

Conclusion

In conclusion, laptop batteries can be repaired in certain cases instead of buying a new one. Factors such as high temperature, overcharging, deep discharge, power surges, and incompatible chargers can cause battery damage. DIY repair methods like cleaning contacts, updating drivers, calibrating the battery, adjusting power settings, and replacing cells restore performance.

However, it is advisable to seek professional assistance for complex repairs. Ultimately, the decision to repair or replace a laptop battery depends on the extent of damage and cost considerations. Taking proper care of the battery can help prolong its lifespan.