Why is my battery not charging on the charger?

A charging problem is most often caused by a faulty charger or cable, a dirty or damaged charging port, a degraded battery, or software and temperature protections that pause charging. Start with simple checks on cables, outlets, and settings before assuming a hardware failure.

Charging issues can arise from hardware defects, software controls, or environmental factors. This article breaks down the common causes and provides practical steps to diagnose and fix the problem, with guidance suitable for smartphones, tablets, and laptops alike.

Check the power source and basic connections

Before looking inside the device, verify that the simplest parts—the power source and connectors—are working correctly. Many charging problems are caused by a weak power supply or loose connections.

What to check first

• Test the outlet by plugging in another device (lamp, charger, or USB device) to confirm it has power.


• Inspect the charger and cable: use the original charger when possible, and ensure the wattage/voltage matches your device’s requirements (USB-C PD for many phones and laptops).


• Look for visible damage on the cable, plug, or brick—fraying, cracks, bent connectors, or exposed wires.


• Try a different charger or outlet to rule out a faulty accessory or power source.


• If charging from a computer or USB hub, connect directly to a wall outlet to provide full power.

These basic checks often reveal if the issue lies with a bad charger, faulty cable, or insufficient power supply, which can be quickly resolved by replacement or using a different outlet.

Inspect the charging port and connectors

Lint, dust, or damaged pins in the charging port can prevent charging even when the charger itself is fine. Port condition is a frequent, easily overlooked cause.

What to inspect and do

• Examine the device’s charging port for lint, debris, or corrosion; clean gently with a dry, non-metal tool or compressed air if safe to do so.


• Check the connector for wear, bent pins, or corrosion; replace the cable or connector if damaged.


• Ensure the plug or USB-C/Lightning connector is fully seated and not loose when plugged in.


• For wireless charging, verify proper alignment on the pad and ensure the surface is clean and stable.

Damaged or dirty ports and connectors are common causes of intermittent or no charging and often require cleaning or component replacement.

Assess battery health and age

Batteries degrade over time, gradually losing capacity. A worn battery can slow charging, stop charging, or cause the device to heat up during charging.

How to gauge health

• On iPhone: Settings > Battery > Battery Health to view Maximum Capacity and Peak Performance Capability.


• On Android: Settings > Battery > Battery Health (varies by maker), or use the manufacturer’s app (e.g., Samsung Members, Huawei Health) to view health metrics and cycle counts.


• On laptops: use built-in tools (Windows powercfg /batteryreport, macOS System Information) or the manufacturer’s utility to assess capacity and cycle count.


• If battery health is significantly degraded (often around 60–80% of original capacity, depending on device), charging may be inefficient or discontinued by the device to protect itself. Consider replacement if symptoms persist.

Battery wear is a common culprit for charging problems, and replacement is frequently the most reliable long-term fix.

Software and firmware factors

Software controls charging behavior, and updates or settings can block charging or slow it down. A software issue can mimic a hardware fault.

Software checks to perform

• Update the device’s operating system and any firmware for the charger (where available) to ensure charging bugs are addressed.


• Review charging-related settings: for example, iPhone’s Optimized Battery Charging and Android’s Adaptive/Battery Saver features can affect charging behavior


• Restart or force-restart the device to reset charging management processes.


• Temporarily disable battery optimization or charging-slowing features to test if charging resumes normally.


• Laptop users can check BIOS/UEFI firmware updates that affect power management and charging behavior.

Software glitches or misconfigured settings can prevent charging or alter charging speed; a reboot and updates often resolve such issues.

Temperature and environment considerations

Extreme temperatures can trigger protection mechanisms that pause charging to protect the battery and device health.

Environmental factors to address

• Keep the device at room temperature; if it’s hot, move to a cooler area before charging.


• Remove a bulky case that may trap heat during charging, especially for devices prone to heating up.


• Avoid charging in direct sunlight, inside a hot car, or in other high-temperature environments.

Cooling the device and maintaining a stable temperature often restores normal charging behavior.

When to seek professional help

If the device still won’t charge after trying the above steps, professional assessment is warranted. Persistent charging issues can indicate a defective battery, damaged charging port, or a deeper hardware problem.

Consideration for service

• Check warranty status and contact the manufacturer or an authorized service provider for repair or replacement parts.


• Look for signs of physical damage, swelling, or liquid exposure; do not attempt to replace a swollen battery yourself.


• If your device is out of warranty, weigh the cost of battery replacement or port repair against buying a new device.

When in doubt, professional diagnostics can identify hidden issues and prevent further damage or safety risks.

Summary

To troubleshoot a non-charging battery, start with the basics: verify the power source and connections, inspect the charging port and cables, and check battery health. Then consider software/firmware settings and environmental factors like temperature. If problems persist, seek professional help for battery or port replacement and to rule out hardware failures. By systematically ruling out each potential cause, most charging issues can be diagnosed and resolved without unnecessary replacement.

How to revive a battery that won't charge?

To revive a battery that won't charge, first try a different charger, as the original one may be faulty. If that doesn't work, you can try jump-starting the battery with another known-good battery, connecting the positive terminals and then the negative terminals for a short period to force a charge. For lead-acid batteries, a low-current, long-duration charge or a specific cleaning and electrolyte renewal process can sometimes work, while deep-discharged lithium-ion batteries are often permanently damaged, though a similar jump-start might temporarily work with the right voltage source. 
For most rechargeable batteries (like tool batteries)
This video demonstrates how to jump-start a dead power tool battery using another battery: 45sPatriotDIYYouTube · Sep 7, 2025

1. Try a different charger: The original charger might be the issue. If another compatible charger works, replace the original one. 
2. Jump-start the battery: This is often the most effective method for a battery with a protection circuit that has cut off due to a very low voltage. 
   • You will need: A known-good, fully charged battery of a similar voltage (e.g., another tool battery) and some wires. 
   • Connect: Attach the positive (+) terminal of the good battery to the positive (+) terminal of the dead battery. Then, connect the negative (-) terminal of the good battery to the negative (-) terminal of the dead battery. 
   • Wait: Let the connection sit for about 30 seconds. The goal is to give the dead battery a small jolt to wake up its protection circuit so the regular charger can recognize it again. 
   • Disconnect and charge: Remove the jump-start wires and immediately try charging the battery with its original charger. 

For lead-acid batteries (like car batteries) 
You can watch this video to see how to revive a dead car battery using a welder: 1mRatchets And WrenchesYouTube · Oct 15, 2023

1. Use a low-current charger: A slow, steady charge can help break down sulfate crystals that form on the plates over time. 
   • Set your charger to a low current, around 10%10 %10% of the battery's capacity, and let it charge for several hours. 
2. Renew the electrolyte (if applicable): For non-maintenance-free batteries, you may need to manually clean the cells and add fresh electrolyte. 
   • Safety first: Wear safety glasses and gloves, and perform this procedure outdoors in a well-ventilated area. 
   • Neutralize any spilled acid with baking soda and water before handling. 
   • Drain the old liquid (after neutralizing any spills), and then flush the cells with distilled water. 
   • Add a new, fresh 0.25%0.25 %0.25% sulfuric acid solution to the correct level. 
   • Recharge the battery slowly, monitoring it for heat or swelling. 

For lithium-ion batteries
This video explains how to fix a lithium ion battery that won't charge: 43sHigh Caliber CraftsmanYouTube · May 3, 2023

• A battery that has been completely discharged to a very low voltage (0V0 cap V0𝑉) is often permanently damaged and cannot be revived. 
• A "jump-start" using a lower-voltage source (like a series of 1.5V1.5 cap V1.5𝑉 alkaline cells to make 4.5V4.5 cap V4.5𝑉) may temporarily work if the battery is not completely dead, but the capacity will be reduced. 
• If your device's protection circuit is preventing a charge, you may be able to force a small current into the battery using a separate, stable power source with a higher voltage. Be extremely cautious, as this is an advanced technique. 

Why is my charger charging but the battery isn't going up?

There are a few possible causes for this: the battery may have a problem, the charger may not be correctly attached, or the charging port may be unclean. Overusing apps or using the device while it is charging might occasionally cause the charging process to lag.

Why is my battery not charging on the battery charger?

Inspect the charger cable and connectors for damage or loose connections. Check for a blown internal fuse or faulty circuit board, which can prevent lights from illuminating and stop charging. If accessible, test the charger output voltage with a multimeter. Cleaning contacts and ensuring proper ventilation can help.

What does it mean when my charger is plugged in but not charging?

Sometimes, an adapter will have insufficient power to manage charging. If you're sure this isn't the case, it's possible that other power devices are reducing current to your device. If possible, remove all but the charger in your wall socket, or find a less-used socket.