How to Maintain a Laptop Battery

It seems like everyone has a laptop these days. Everyone likes to be able to access their information on the go, and sometimes there is no place to plug in your laptop. Panic ensues. But, it shouldn't. Read on for why it's a good idea to use the battery power on your laptop. It will preserve its life, believe it or not.

Things You'll Need

• Laptop computer, PC or Apple
• Lithium ion battery (usually included with the laptop)
• AC power cord adapter

Instructions

1. Charge your laptop's battery to its full capacity before first using it, unless it has already been fully charged by the manufacturer.

2. Unplug your laptop, and run it on battery power to discharge the battery once a week or every other week.

3. Run the battery down to almost 0 percent. This will help extend the battery life, believe it or not.

4. Pay attention to power loss. If you find that your battery power drops suddenly from a high percentage to a low percentage, get a new battery. It has lost its ability to hold a charge.

Tips & Warnings

• A heavily used battery will probably require replacement in about 18 months. Be prepared to buy a new one if you rely heavily on your battery.

• Keep a spare battery on hand if you rely on battery power a great deal. Might save you from losing your work!

• Batteries that don't charge to 100 percent are probably starting to have issues with recharging. It will probably need to be replaced soon.

• If your computer manufacturer issues a recall for your battery, do not hesitate to send it back for a replacement. You don't want your laptop melting down on you, and that's meant in the literal sense. People can and have had their laptops melt or explode because of defective batteries.

• Use your laptop on a raised surface, such as a book to prop it up, or a portable desk made especially to keep your laptop cool. Batteries can get very hot, and if your laptop cannot vent properly, it can cause problems with the processor.