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Laptop and Phone Charging: Common Mistakes That Shorten Battery Life

Laptop and Phone Charging: Common Mistakes That Shorten Battery Life

Paula Napolitano |

Battery life is one of the most important factors in maintaining the longevity of your devices. Yet, so many users unknowingly make mistakes that actually reduce efficiency and lifespan. With this in mind, it’s incredibly crucial to understand proper phone battery life tips, so you can ensure your laptop and phone batteries remain healthy for years (and save yourself some €€€ in the process!) 

1 – Letting the Battery Drain to 0% Too Often 

A common misconception is that lithium-ion batteries should be completely drained before recharging. Unfortunately, this isn’t the case! The reality is that deep discharges shorten the lifespan of the battery. The best way to conserve phone battery is to recharge before it reaches 20%, as allowing it to drop too low repeatedly strains the battery’s chemistry.  

2 – Keeping Devices Plugged in at 100% for Long Periods 

Leaving a phone or laptop plugged in overnight might seem convenient, but constantly maintaining a full charge causes long-term damage. The best way to extend battery life is to keep the charge between 20% and 80% whenever possible. Many modern devices include battery optimisation features that help regulate this automatically. So, just keep the phone topped up and don’t overcharge. 

3 – Using Cheap or Uncertified Chargers 

Not all chargers are created equal! This is a huge pain point and almost everyone is guilty of doing so - Using low-quality or third-party chargers can lead to overheating, slow charging and even damage to your device’s internal components. The best way to keep phone battery healthy is to use manufacturer-recommended or high-quality certified chargers that regulate power flow effectively. Otherwise, you’re running the risk of serious damage to your devices internals. 

4 – Charging Devices in Extreme Temperatures 

Did you know that heat and cold have a significant impact on battery lifespan.? Charging in high temperatures can degrade battery cells, while extreme cold can slow down the charging process and reduce overall efficiency. It’s recommend to keep your device at a moderate temperature when charging, this in turn ensures longevity and prevents premature battery wear. 

5 – Relying on Fast Charging All the Time 

Fast charging is a useful feature but shouldn’t be used as the default charging method. The rapid power input generates excess heat, which can degrade lithium-ion cells over time. Yes, I know, it’s a bit of an inconvenience, but do you know what’s more inconvenient? Ruining your battery in double-quick time! The best way to maintain phone battery is to use regular charging when time allows and only rely on fast charging when necessary. 

How to Improve Battery Life for the Long Term 

To extend the lifespan of your device, enable battery-saving modes to reduce unnecessary drain. Avoid charging in direct sunlight or excessively hot environments. Use genuine chargers and cables to ensure safe power delivery. Restart your device occasionally to refresh battery management settings. 

Final Thoughts 

A device’s battery is its lifeline, and simple changes in charging habits can make a big difference. Avoiding these common mistakes will help extend the battery lifespan, keeping your devices running efficiently for longer. If you’re looking for a device with a reliable battery, consider refurbished laptops and refurbished phones that have been tested and certified for long-term performance.