One question that Laptop users always have is whether overcharging their Laptop will damage its battery.
Most of the laptop users prefer to use their computers connected with DC plug. Does this habit damage the laptop battery?
First of all, let’s understand what overcharging is. Overcharging occurs when the charger keeps its battery at a temperature that is warm to the touch (body temperature) while it is in standby mode. For example, you have your Laptop plugged into the DC outlet and the battery continues to draw power, even after it has been recharged. Almost all modern laptop batteries are made of lithium-ion and have a built-in chip that prevents them from overcharging. This chip cuts off the power supply to the battery, once it reaches full charge. However, if the power supply is not cut off, the laptop can explode. This happened with Samsung’s Note 7 smartphones and the reason behind the explosions that occurred.
A lithium battery should never overheat in a charger. If this happens, the battery is bad or the charger is not working properly. Do not continue to use the battery or charger in this case.
But does the battery wear out if it is constantly connected to the DC outlet?
While there is no evidence to suggest that a battery can fail if it is constantly charged, it is important to note that electronic gadgets do wear out after a year or two.
As long as the laptop is relatively new, keeping it plugged in day and night may not make any difference.
However, there are studies that show that keeping your laptop or smartphone battery charged to 80% extends its life. There are many tools that will help you do this. Nowadays, Laptop manufacturers themselves create power management tools to achieve this.
If you use your laptop in a fixed location and don't transport it, you can remove its batteries. However, remember to reinsert them every two months to keep them charged.
When to remove the laptop battery
HP suggests a two-week rule for when to remove the battery from your laptop. Remove the laptop battery when:
Your laptop is going to be turned off for two weeks.
You use your laptop plugged in continuously for two weeks or more, as most people do with laptops that are permanently installed in a specific spot.
If you remove your battery, keep it at 25 to 30 degrees Celsius. The most common recommendation for storing the battery is to keep it charged to about 40% and in a cool, dry place. You can put it in your refrigerator, but remember to bring it back to room temperature before use.
