Is your laptop battery overheating? One of the most common issues with laptop batteries is overheating. Not because batteries are designed poorly or badly constructed but due to, in many cases to normal daily use. When the laptop is using the AC adapter for power the battery acts as a back up in case of a loss of power or accidental unplugging. During this type of use the battery becomes hotter than it would if being used on its own. To reduce the chances of overheating, which can reduce the life of the battery, keep the AC power adapter plugged in only if you need to charge the battery while using the laptop. This is known as charge cycling the battery and works by running the battery down to it’s lowest level short of shutting the system down entirely and then recharging all of the battery cells. Alternatively removing the battery when using the AC adapter
Other causes and remedies
If your battery is consistently hot to the touch, remove it and thoroughly cool down first making sure it is close to room temperature before re-seating it. If the battery continues to overheat it may need to be replaced. Warning here although rare there have been occasions when batteries have exploded in what appears to be normal use situations. For this reason always replace a defective battery as soon as possible as it could cause irreparable damage to the laptop in question.
Alternatively in addition to the laptop battery overheating, failure to charge or hold a charge is another frequent issue with laptop batteries. As above to reduce the risks of damage and improve overall performance the battery should be replaced with a manufacturers specified replacement.
How to Check your system
First ensure a good fit between the port on the computer and the cable; the tightness of the connection will vary between models but it should stay in place and not wiggle around when in situ. Is the battery charging LED on, if one is present on your laptop. If it is not on wiggle the cord to see if the connection makes and breaks contact. If you see a flickering LED light then the solution maybe a new adapter which can be fitted in most cases by your local IT support shop. Finally do make sure to check your cables for kinks knots and splits these can all be sources of wear and potential danger for your computer.
Prevention is better than cure
With this in mind, take care of your cables, take a few seconds to coil or wrap them before putting them away. Separate the adapter from the mains lead, try not to wrap or twist them together. They are different cables with different stress points and may respond differently.