In a world where we depend on our devices daily, battery life is something we all think about, yet there are so many misunderstandings related to it. From when to charge to how to store, there are countless myths that lead to confusion. At WeFixIt & WePrintIt, we want to help you get the most out of your devices by debunking these common myths and providing practical advice for extending battery life. Whether you live in Grande Prairie, Dawson Creek, or Fort St. John, proper battery care is very important, and we’re here to set the record straight.
One of the oldest and most common myths is that you should always let your device’s battery drain fully before recharging it. This idea dates back to the days of nickel-cadmium (NiCad) and nickel-metal hydride (NiMH) batteries, which did indeed suffer from a “memory effect.” If you didn’t fully discharge these batteries before charging them, they would “forget” a portion of their capacity over time.
Fact: Modern lithium-ion batteries work differently. They do not suffer from this memory effect, and in fact, letting them drain completely too often can reduce their lifespan. Lithium-ion batteries are designed to be charged frequently and maintained at an optimal level (between 20% and 80%). Fully draining them on a regular basis can cause undue stress and shorten their overall longevity.
Another widespread myth is that charging your phone or laptop overnight will cause the battery to overcharge, resulting in damage. The idea is that once your device reaches 100%, the continued flow of electricity will degrade the battery.
Fact: Fortunately, modern smartphones and laptops are equipped with smart charging technology. Once your device reaches 100%, the charger cuts off additional electricity flow, preventing overcharging. So, leaving your device plugged in overnight is generally safe. However, keeping it constantly at 100% for extended periods (days or weeks) can degrade battery health, so it’s still best to unplug it when convenient.
There is a common belief that only using the charger provided by the device manufacturer is safe, and third-party chargers can harm your battery.
Fact: Not all third-party chargers are bad. As long as the charger meets the correct voltage and amperage specifications of your device, it is perfectly safe to use. However, extremely cheap, unregulated chargers can be harmful as they may not offer consistent power levels, which could damage your battery. To be safe, use a reputable brand of charger that meets your device’s technical requirements.
With the myths debunked, let’s dive into some effective practices for keeping your battery healthy over the long term.
Heat is the number one enemy of lithium-ion batteries. Excessive heat can cause permanent damage to your battery and significantly reduce its lifespan. When using your device, try to avoid exposing it to direct sunlight or leaving it in hot environments, such as inside a car on a sunny day. If your device starts to overheat, turn it off and allow it to cool down.
Using your phone or laptop while it’s plugged in generates more heat, especially if you’re running resource-intensive apps like games or video editing software. This extra heat puts more strain on your battery. For optimal battery health, avoid heavy use while your device is charging. If you need to use it, try to keep your activities light to minimize overheating.
If you’re storing your device for a long period, such as a spare laptop or an old phone, the battery needs special care. Experts recommend charging your device to around 50% before turning it off and storing it. This is because both completely charged and completely drained batteries can degrade over time when not in use. Store your device in a cool, dry place and check the battery periodically to ensure it stays around 50%.
Most modern smartphones and laptops come with battery-saving modes that automatically adjust settings like brightness, background app activity, and screen refresh rate. These features are designed to extend battery life throughout the day, especially when you’re on the go. Keeping these features enabled, or manually reducing settings like screen brightness, can make a noticeable difference.
1)Turn off unnecessary features like Bluetooth, GPS, or Wi-Fi when not in use. These services drain your battery even when you’re not actively using them.
2)Reduce screen brightness or use automatic brightness settings to conserve battery power.
3)Keep your software updated: Manufacturers often release updates that optimize battery performance, so staying current with your software can improve battery life.
4)Avoid fast charging unless necessary. While it’s convenient, fast charging generates more heat and can, over time, shorten the lifespan of your battery.
Caring for your device’s battery doesn’t have to be complicated. By debunking common myths and following a few simple tips—such as keeping your device cool, avoiding excessive heat, and charging regularly—you can significantly extend the life of your battery. Modern lithium-ion batteries are designed to be durable, but they still require thoughtful use to perform at their best. At WeFixIt & WePrintIt, we specialize in helping you keep your devices in top condition, and when it’s time for a battery replacement, you can trust our team to provide high-quality service in Grande Prairie, Dawson Creek, and Fort St. John.
By following these guidelines, you’ll enjoy longer-lasting batteries and fewer disruptions in your daily device usage. Stay informed, and let WeFixIt & WePrintIt help you with all your tech repair needs, ensuring your devices serve you for years to come.