Ways to take care of your laptop charger and power cord to extend its life
Keeping a laptop charger on hand is important, and replacing it is a hassle (and can be expensive). There are some simple tips to follow when it comes to extending the life of your laptop charger.
The laptop chargers consist of two parts: a transformer and a power cord. The transformer is the block that converts the power from your AC outlet to DC, and the power cord connects the charger to the outlet.
Over time, transformers can overheat, which can cause internal damage. At the same time, any section of your power cord can fray, exposing the wires inside.
How to care for your laptop charger and power cord:
Do Not Wrap Your Laptop's Power Cord Tightly
While it may be tempting to wrap your laptop's power cord in a tight pattern to keep things organized, doing so can shorten the life of your charger. This practice repeatedly stresses the thin copper conductors in power cords and can cause them to break.
To avoid this, coil your laptop power cord loosely to avoid kinking the wires and, if possible, coil it differently each time to avoid stressing the same section repeatedly.
Use a Power Strip
But not just any power strip, make sure it has built-in surge protection. Surge protected power strips not only provide convenience (you can plug multiple devices into one outlet), but they can protect your laptop, phone, and other electronics from power surges that can damage your device.
Make Sure the Transformer HaS Air to Breathe
The transformer can get hot during charging. To prevent your notebook from overheating while charging, place it in a place with sufficient air circulation (e.g., not crammed into a sofa cushion), especially when you know it will be plugged in for a long time.
Avoid Contact with Sharp Edges
Exposed wires are a big problem, and prolonged contact with sharp surfaces like table edges can wear down the rubber that protects the wires on your laptop's power cord.
Whether you frequently move your power cord from place to place or have a designated load centre, make sure your facility doesn't expose those delicate cords to sharp edges.
Keep Your Power Cord Away from Water
Water and electronics don't mix, so it's important to avoid situations where your laptop's power cord could be accidentally exposed to water as it could cause electric shock, damage your laptop, or both. That means you shouldn't charge your laptop in or near your kitchen or bathroom.
If your laptop charger comes into contact with water, unplug and remove it immediately. Dry the charger well and make sure it is completely dry before using it again.
Use Different Cables to Avoid Excessive Stress During Transport or Storage
Of course, that means you have a backup if one fails. But choosing to have two in your possession is more than just being proactive. It can help reduce wear and tear on both and will likely increase their lifespan.
Reserve a dedicated cable for on the go and leave your other charger in your living room or bedroom. Only use the travel cable when you are traveling and the cable in the living room or bedroom when you work in the house and in these rooms.
To avoid frequent pulling, stretching and twisting of cables.
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