Charging your phone may seem like a simple part of your daily routine, but there are several common pitfalls that many people fall into.
Here are some of the most frequent mistakes to avoid to help extend battery life and ensure safety.
1. Overcharging Your Phone
Modern phones primarily use rechargeable lithium-ion batteries. While these batteries are efficient, they do have limitations.
Letting the battery drain completely or leaving it connected to the charger for hours after reaching 100% can gradually reduce its overall capacity.
Try to avoid leaving your phone plugged in for longer than necessary, and unplug it when fully charged.
Although many phones now have systems that stop charging once the battery is full, it’s not always as reliable as unplugging it yourself, according to RTÉ.
2. Charging in a Warm Environment
When charging, your phone tends to get warm.
It’s best to avoid placing the phone under a pillow or in bed while charging, as soft surfaces like carpets and bedding can trap heat, leading to overheating and, in extreme cases, a fire hazard.
Apple and Google recommend charging your phone on a clean, flat surface like a nightstand.
3. Using Cheap Replacements
It can be tempting to buy cheap charging cables and plugs, especially if the original ones are lost or damaged.
However, inexpensive options are often poorly made and can provide inefficient power.
If your cable costs less than a cup of coffee, don’t be surprised if your phone charges more slowly or the cable gets too hot. It's better to invest in cables and plugs from reputable brands, even if they cost a bit more.
4. Installing Battery-Saving Apps
It might be tempting to download apps that claim to extend battery life, but these apps are rarely effective.
On iPhones, they typically don’t have access to the necessary settings, and on Android devices, they may access your phone in risky ways. It’s better to manage your battery life using the phone’s built-in features.
5. Charging and Streaming
Charging your phone while streaming HD videos or playing demanding games can cause it to overheat. This extra heat is harmful to the long-term health of your battery.
To avoid overheating and prolong battery life, it's a good idea to let your device rest while charging.
By steering clear of these common mistakes, you can help ensure your phone and its battery last longer and operate more efficiently.
