For most people, charging their smartphones has become a part of their regular routine. But did you know that there are actually some huge mistakes you can make when charging your phone that could potentially damage it? Here are a few of the cardinal sins of phone charging you should avoid if you want to keep your smartphone in good shape…
1. Don’t use cheap chargers from no-name manufacturers
Generic chargers are cheaper than their brand-name counterparts, but there’s a reason for that. They often don’t have a charging circuit that shuts off the charger when the battery level reaches 100%. Constant overcharging can permanently damage your phone.
2. Quick-charge devices aren’t always a good idea
When you use a quick-charge device such as a power bank, the battery is exposed to a higher voltage. This can lead to overheating which can damage the battery and the phone.
3. Don’t leave your phone connected to the charger overnight
Most chargers that come with the latest smartphones have built-in circuits to cut off the current when the battery is full. But if you’re not sure if your charger has this feature, play it safe and don’t leave it charging overnight. This can lead to overcharging which damages the battery.
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4. Avoid battery apps
There are many free apps that can help you keep track of your battery’s performance. These can be very useful, but if they aren’t provided or recommended by the smartphone manufacturer, it’s probably best to avoid them. Many of them tend to put a huge strain on your battery and some even load unwanted advertising onto your phone.
5. Avoid constant charging
Always let your battery level drop to around 20% before charging it. When a battery is constantly being charged before it is really necessary, it can severely shorten its lifespan. But also don’t go to the other extreme — letting your battery level drop to 0% is also not good for it.
6. Don’t use your phone while it’s charging
Using your phone while it’s plugged in increases its temperature and puts severe strain on the battery.
7. Don’t leave your phone in its case when charging
If you keep your smartphone in a case or cover, always remove it before charging. During charging, the battery can get quite warm. When the phone is in a case, this warmth gets trapped in the phone and the increased temperature can cause damage to it.
It all seems so obvious, right? But a little reminder never hurt, so keep these tips in mind to keep your trusted electronic companion running at peak performance for many years to come.
