MacBook Battery Not Charging

So you’ve plugged in your MacBook, and despite your best hopes, you notice that your battery isn’t charging. This can be a cause for concern, especially if you rely on your MacBook for work, school, or other essential tasks. While such a situation can be frustrating, the silver lining is that there are several troubleshooting steps you can take to possibly remedy the problem.

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Initial Checks

1. Inspect the Cable and Adapter: Sometimes, the issue lies with the charger itself. Ensure there are no frays, damages, or visible wear. If you spot any damage, it’s best to replace the charger.
2. Check the Ports: Dust and debris can accumulate in the charging port. Gently clean the port using a soft, lint-free cloth.
3. Reboot Your MacBook: The classic “turn it off and on again” can sometimes solve the issue. A simple system reboot may refresh the settings and fix any minor glitches.

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Software-Based Troubleshooting

1. Check Energy Saver Settings: Go to System Preferences > Energy Saver and ensure no settings are preventing the battery from charging.
2. Reset the System Management Controller (SMC): The SMC controls several low-level functions, including battery management. Resetting it can sometimes resolve charging issues.
   • MacBooks with non-removable batteries: Shut down your MacBook. Press and hold the Shift, Control, Option, and Power buttons for 10 seconds. Release, then press the power button to turn on.
   • MacBooks with removable batteries: Shut down the MacBook and remove the battery. Hold the power button for 5 seconds. Reinsert the battery and power on.
3. Update macOS: Ensure you’re running the latest version of macOS. Apple occasionally releases updates that fix known issues, including battery-related problems.

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Hardware-Based Troubleshooting

1. Try a Different Charger: Use another MacBook charger to see if the issue lies with your charger. Ensure the charger is compatible with your MacBook model.
2. Inspect the Battery Status: Click on the battery icon in the menu bar. If you see “Service Battery,” your battery might be nearing the end of its lifespan.
3. Visit an Apple Store or Authorized Service Provider: If all else fails, it’s time to get the professionals involved. They can run diagnostic tests and identify if there’s a hardware problem.

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Prevention Tips

1. Unplug When Fully Charged: Continuously keeping your MacBook plugged in when it’s already at 100% can reduce the battery’s longevity.
2. Avoid Extreme Temperatures: Exposing your MacBook to very high or low temperatures can affect the battery’s health.
3. Calibrate the Battery: Once every few months, let the battery drain fully, then charge it to 100% without interruption.

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Conclusion

While it can be worrisome when your MacBook’s battery isn’t charging, it’s crucial to approach the problem methodically. Many times, the solution is simpler than you might think. If you’ve tried the above steps and still face issues, it’s best to consult with Apple professionals to ensure your MacBook gets back to its optimal state.