Alex Ruben
How to Fix Laptop Battery Not Charging on Windows 10/11
If you find yourself in a situation where your laptop battery is plugged in but not charging, you’re not alone. This issue can be frustrating, but it can often be resolved with some straightforward troubleshooting steps. In this guide, we will walk you through a step-by-step process to identify and fix the battery charging problem on your Windows 10 or 11 laptop.
Before we begin, ensure that your laptop is connected to a power source and that the power adapter is functioning correctly. You will not need any special tools or downloads for this process, just follow the steps outlined below.
Step 1: Access Windows Settings
Start by opening the Settings application. You can do this by typing “Settings” in the search bar next to the Start menu. Once the Settings window opens, navigate to Update & Security.
Step 2: Run the Power Troubleshooter
In the Update & Security section, look for the Troubleshoot option on the left sidebar. Click on it, and then select Additional troubleshooters. Scroll down until you find the Power troubleshooter. Click on it and then select the option to Run the troubleshooter. This tool will automatically detect and attempt to fix any power-related issues that might be affecting your laptop’s ability to charge.
Step 3: Check Device Manager for Battery Drivers
Next, you will want to ensure that your battery drivers are functioning correctly. Search for Device Manager in the Start menu and open it. Look for the section labeled Batteries and expand it. You should see entries such as Microsoft AC Adapter and Microsoft ACPI-Compliant Control Method Battery. Right-click on the Microsoft AC Adapter entry and select Update driver. Choose the option to Search automatically for updated driver software.
Step 4: Uninstall and Reinstall Battery Drivers
If updating the drivers does not resolve the issue, you can try uninstalling both battery drivers. Right-click on each battery entry in the Batteries section and choose Uninstall device. After uninstalling, restart your laptop. Windows will automatically reinstall the drivers upon reboot, which may fix the charging issue.
Step 5: Additional Checks
If the problem persists after trying the above steps, consider checking the physical components. Ensure that the charging cable and adapter are not damaged and that the charging port on your laptop is free from dust and debris. Testing with another power adapter (if available) can also help determine if the adapter is at fault.
Extra Tips & Common Issues
In addition to the troubleshooting steps above, here are some additional tips:
- Ensure your laptop’s battery is not completely drained; allow it to charge for a few minutes before troubleshooting.
- Check for any Windows updates that might affect hardware performance.
- Consider running a full system check to ensure no other software issues affect battery performance.
Conclusion
By following these steps, you should be able to resolve the issue of your laptop battery not charging while plugged in. If you continue to experience problems, it may be time to consult with a professional technician or consider replacing the battery, especially if your laptop is older. Completing these troubleshooting steps can ensure your laptop runs smoothly and efficiently.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why isn’t my laptop battery charging even though it’s plugged in?
This can be due to various reasons, including faulty power adapters, issues with battery drivers, or a malfunctioning battery. Following the troubleshooting steps outlined can help identify the problem.
How do I know if my battery is faulty?
If your laptop does not power on without being plugged in, or if it drains quickly, these may indicate a faulty battery.
Can software issues prevent my laptop from charging?
Yes, outdated or corrupted drivers can prevent your laptop from recognizing the battery properly, leading to charging issues.