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How to Fix a Phone That Won’t Charge
Edited 2 weeks ago by ExtremeHow Editorial Team
PhoneChargingTroubleshootingMobileDevicesAndroidiPhoneSettingsHardwarePerformance
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Experiencing a problem with your phone not charging can be a frustrating experience. However, the good news is that there are several steps you can take to fix this problem. This guide provides a rundown of how to troubleshoot and resolve charging problems. From checking your charging cable to checking the software on your phone, these tips are designed to help you get your device back up and running.
Step 1: Check your power source
One of the simplest steps is to make sure your power source is working correctly. If you are using a wall outlet, try plugging another device into the same outlet to confirm that it is working. You can also try using a different outlet.
If you're using a USB port or USB hub on a computer, try connecting your phone to a wall outlet using an adapter. Sometimes, the USB ports on a computer may not be able to provide enough power to charge your phone efficiently.
Step 2: Inspect the charging cable
A common problem that can cause charging issues is a bad charging cable. Over time, the cable can become worn or damaged. Here are some steps to inspect your charging cable:
- Check for visible damage: Check for any signs of wear, such as frayed wires or bent connectors.
- Test a different cable: If you have a different compatible charging cable, try using it to see if your phone will charge. If it does, the problem is probably with your original cable.
- Use a different socket: Sometimes the problem may lie in the electrical socket itself, so try using your charging cable with a different socket.
Step 3: Check the charging adapter
The charging adapter, also known as the power brick, could also be the culprit. If you suspect that the adapter is bad, here are some steps you can take:
- Try another adapter: If you have a spare adapter, try using that to charge your phone. If it works, the original adapter is likely the problem.
- Inspect for damage: Look for signs of any physical damage, such as cracks or loose components. If you find any, it may be time to replace it.
Step 4: Clean the charging port
Debris, dust, or lint may accumulate in your phone's charging port, which can interfere with the charging process. Here's how you can clean your charging port safely:
- Turn off your phone: Make sure your phone is turned off before you clean the charging port.
- Use a toothpick or small brush: Use a toothpick, small brush, or can of compressed air to remove any debris from the port. Be careful not to damage the port when cleaning.
- Inspect the port: After cleaning, inspect the port to make sure there is no debris in it.
Step 5: Restart your phone
Sometimes, charging issues can be caused by a software glitch. A simple restart may solve the problem. Follow these steps to restart your phone:
- For iOS: Press and hold the power button until the “Slide to Power Off” slider appears. Slide it to turn your phone off. After it turns off, press and hold the power button again to turn it back on.
- For Android: Press and hold the power button until the power menu appears. Select “Restart” or “Power Off.” After it shuts down, press and hold the power button to turn it back on.
Step 6: Update your software
Software bugs can also affect your phone's ability to charge. Keeping your phone's software updated can help resolve these issues. Here's how:
- For iOS: Go to Settings > General > Software Update. If an update is available, follow the prompts to install it.
- For Android: Go to Settings > System > System update. Check for updates and follow the instructions to install any available updates.
Step 7: Check the battery health
The battery may be the reason your phone won't charge. Over time, the battery can wear out and need to be replaced. Here's how to check your battery's health:
- For iOS: Go to Settings > Battery > Battery Health. This will show you the maximum capacity of your battery. If it's significantly worn out, it's time to replace the battery.
- For Android: This process may vary between manufacturers. Usually, you can find this option in Settings > Battery > Battery usage or similar.
Step 8: Use Safe Mode
Third-party apps can sometimes interfere with the charging process. You can figure out if this is the problem by using Safe Mode. Here's how to boot your phone into Safe Mode:
- For iOS: iOS doesn’t have a safe mode, but you can try rebooting your device and charging it without launching any apps.
- For Android: Press and hold the Power button until the Power menu appears. Press and hold the "Power off" option until the Safe Mode prompt appears. Tap "OK" to reboot into Safe Mode. If your phone charges in Safe Mode, the problem may be a third-party app.
Step 9: Check for water damage
Water damage can also affect your phone's ability to charge. Most modern smartphones have water damage indicators. You can:
- Inspect the indicators: Check for water damage indicators in the SIM card slot or charging port.
- Dry your phone: If you suspect water damage, turn off your phone and place it in a container filled with raw rice or silica gel packets to absorb moisture.
Step 10: Perform a factory reset
If all else fails, you may consider performing a factory reset. This will erase all data on your phone, so make sure to back up important information beforehand. Here's how to perform a factory reset:
- For iOS: Go to Settings > General > Reset > Erase All Content and Settings. Follow the prompts to complete the reset.
- For Android: Go to Settings > System > Reset options > Erase all data (factory reset). Follow the instructions to complete the reset.
When to seek professional help
If you've tried all of these solutions and your phone still won't charge, you may need professional help. You can contact your phone's manufacturer or take it to a certified repair center. They can diagnose the problem and determine if any hardware components need repair or replacement.
Conclusion
Charging problems can be annoying, but with these comprehensive troubleshooting steps, you'll be able to identify and resolve the issue. From checking your power source and cleaning your charging port to updating your software and checking for water damage, these steps cover a wide range of potential problems. Remember to seek professional help if needed and always handle your phone with care to minimize future charging problems.
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