Apple’s range of portable computers, namely MacBooks, are exceptional devices that leave no stone unturned when offering users unrivaled performance and appealing exteriors. Over the years, MacBook models have evolved a lot, both in terms of looks and performance. According to The Guardian, the latest MacBook Pros with M2 chips feature better battery lives and power than their predecessors.
Even though MacBooks feature exceptional batteries, there are instances when they exhibit charging-related issues. Fortunately, there are many ways to deal with such issues. For example, if the charger is causing the issue and the user is wondering how to charge laptop without a charger, they can use a power bank to get the job done. However, it is not a permanent solution. Here is a look at some effective solutions to solve the “Mac won’t charge” problem for good:
- Inspect the Power Source
When a Mac refuses to get charged, most users forget to check whether the source of power is the issue. Therefore, if you are a MacBook user and your portable computer is exhibiting charge-related issues, the first thing you should do is check the source of power, i.e., the power outlet.
You can test it out by plugging a test device, such as a bulb, into it. If the bulb is lighting up, chances are that it is the charger that has issues and not the power outlet. However, if the power outlet does not power up the bulb, consider plugging your Mac into another outlet and charging it there.
- Opt for the Right Charger
Like every other device, Apple’s MacBooks also get charged by specific chargers that are compatible with the devices’ power ratings. In fact, Apple offers or recommends different chargers for different models. For instance, Apple’s wireless MagSafe chargers, namely MagSafe 1 and 2, come in numerous capacities, including 45W, 60W, and 85W. Similarly, Apple’s USB-C chargers also feature different charger ratings, ranging from 30W to 140W.
There are instances when users use a low-wattage charging adaptor with a MacBook that consumes more power. In such cases, the MacBook is unable to charge properly since it does not receive the power it requires. Therefore, if a MacBook is not charging, the charger in question might not be compatible with the model. Therefore, MacBook users are advised to choose and use a compatible charger to avoid charging issues.
- Identify and Get Rid of Problematic Applications
Another potential reason for a MacBook facing trouble in terms of charging could be specific applications or utilities. In some cases, some resource-hogging applications, like video editors, simulators, etc., prevent Macs from charging normally. An effective solution is to close such apps and try charging again. Doing so will resolve the issue.
However, there are instances when closing resource-hogging applications does not get the job done. If this is the case, removing the application or program by uninstalling it permanently from the Mac is the best course forward. This is a highly effective solution that resolves the “Mac not charging” issue in most cases.
- Reset the MacBook’s PRAM
PRAM, or Parameter Random Access Memory, is a variant of memory that is used to store system settings in Macs. It comprises settings like screen brightness, keyboard backlight settings, sound volume settings, etc. When the PRAM gets corrupted for any reason, it prevents the MacBook from charging normally. Even if it allows charging, the charging rate is very slow.
If you own a MacBook and are facing charging issues, an effective way to resolve the issue would be to reset your Mac’s PRAM. To do so, you need to hold the dedicated power switch of your Mac for 5 seconds, leave it, and press it again to restart the device. As soon as the device restarts, press the “Control,” “Option,” “R,” and “P” keys together, release them, and reboot the device again to reset the PRAM. After doing this, chances are that your MacBook will start charging normally again.
- Replace the Faulty Battery With a New One
If none of the solutions mentioned above resolve your Mac’s charging issue, chances are that the battery may be at fault. The only way left in such a case is to replace the faulty battery with a new one. There are also a few signs that indicate that the battery’s time is over, such as cracks in the touchpad, swollen battery, etc.
If you plan to get a new battery for your MacBook, make sure that it is a legitimate one and not a third-party one since the latter may cause more issues in the future. Individuals are advised to go to an authorized Apple service center and replace the battery instead of getting the job done locally.
If you are a MacBook user who is facing charging issues, refer to the effective tips mentioned above to resolve them without hassle.
