HP Laptop Battery is Not Charging! How to Fix? Although HP laptops are renowned for their dependability and efficiency, problems can arise with any electronic equipment. The inability of the battery to charge is one frequent issue. Don’t worry if you’re having this problem! This article will take you through some steps to find and fix the issue. We’ll cover anything, whether a hardware issue, software bug, or human error.
Step 1: Check the Basics
Before diving into advanced troubleshooting, ensure the following:
Power Source:
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- Confirm that your wall outlet is functional by plugging in another device.
- Use a different power outlet to rule out any issues with the current one.
Charger and Cable:
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- Inspect the charger and cable for visible damage, such as fraying or bent connectors.
- Try using a different HP charger that is compatible with your laptop model.
Battery Connection:
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- If your HP laptop has a removable battery, ensure it’s properly seated in its compartment.
- Remove the battery (if possible) and reinsert it to establish a secure connection.
Step 2: Inspect the Charging Port:
The charging port on your laptop can accumulate dust or debris over time, preventing a proper connection.
Clean the Port:
- Use a soft brush or compressed air to clean the charging port gently. Avoid using sharp objects that could damage the port.
Check for Damage:
- Look for signs of physical damage, such as bent pins or loose connections. If the port appears damaged, it may need professional repair.
Step 3: Perform a Hard Reset:
A hard reset can help resolve minor software glitches that may be causing the charging issue.
- Turn off your laptop.
- Disconnect the charger and remove the battery (if removable).
- Press and hold the power button for 15-30 seconds to discharge any residual power.
- Reconnect the battery and charger, then power on the laptop.
Step 4: Update or Reinstall Battery Drivers
Outdated or corrupted battery drivers can prevent your laptop from charging properly.
Access Device Manager:
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- Press Win + X and select “Device Manager.”
Update the Battery Driver:
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- Expand the “Batteries” section.
- Right-click on “Microsoft ACPI-Compliant Control Method Battery” and select “Update driver.”
- Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the update.
Reinstall the Battery Driver:
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- If updating doesn’t work, uninstall the driver by right-clicking on it and selecting “Uninstall device.”
- Restart your laptop; Windows will automatically reinstall the driver.
Step 5: Check Battery Health:
Over time, laptop batteries lose their ability to hold a charge. Use the built-in HP Battery Check tool to assess your battery’s health:
Install HP Support Assistant:
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- Download and install the HP Support Assistant from the official HP website.
Run Battery Check:
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- Open HP Support Assistant and navigate to the “Battery Check” tool.
- Follow the prompts to test your battery. If the tool indicates poor battery health, consider replacing it.
Step 6: Adjust Power Settings:
Incorrect power settings can interfere with charging.
Access Power Options:
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- Press Win + X and select “Power Options.”
Change Plan Settings:
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- Click on “Change plan settings” next to your active power plan.
- Select “Restore default settings for this plan” and save changes.
Disable Battery Saver Mode:
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- Go to Settings > System > Battery.
- Ensure that “Battery saver” is turned off.
Step 7: Test with Another Battery or Charger:
If you have access to another HP laptop battery or charger:
- Swap the battery or charger to determine if the issue lies with your current hardware.
- If the laptop charges with the new battery or charger, you’ll need to replace the faulty component.
Step 8: Update BIOS:
The BIOS (Basic Input/Output System) controls essential hardware functions, including charging. An outdated BIOS could cause charging issues.
Check Your BIOS Version:
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- Press Win + R, type msinfo32, and press Enter.
- Note the BIOS version/date.
Download the Latest BIOS:
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- Visit the HP support website and search for your laptop model.
- Download and install the latest BIOS update following the provided instructions.
Step 9: Perform a Battery Calibration:
Battery calibration ensures accurate readings of battery levels and can sometimes resolve charging issues.
Charge the Battery:
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- Fully charge your laptop while it’s turned off.
Discharge the Battery:
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- Use your laptop on battery power until it shuts down due to low charge.
Recharge Fully:
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- Plug in the charger and allow the battery to charge to 100% without interruption.
Step 10: Seek Professional Help:
It’s time to seek professional advice if none of the aforementioned solutions work. For help, get in touch with HP support or go to an authorized service center. They can identify and resolve hardware issues that can call for certain equipment or knowledge.
Preventive Tips to Avoid Future Charging Issues:
- Use Genuine Accessories:
- Always use an HP-approved charger and battery to avoid compatibility issues.
- Avoid Overcharging:
- Disconnect the charger once the battery is fully charged to prevent overheating.
- Keep the Laptop Cool:
- Use your laptop on hard, flat surfaces to ensure proper ventilation.
- Avoid exposing it to extreme temperatures.
- Regular Maintenance:
- Clean the charging port and vents periodically to prevent dust buildup.
- Monitor Battery Health:
- Run periodic battery health checks using HP Support Assistant.
Conclusion:
Although an HP laptop battery that won’t charge can be annoying, most problems can be fixed by following the above instructions. Begin with simple checks and work your way up to more complex problems. To make sure your laptop is back in working order, get expert assistance if everything else fails. You may prolong the life of your battery and steer clear of potential problems by taking preventative action.
You can Also Check: How to Identify & Fix Laptop Issues? Using HP Diagnostic Tools