If you own a Mac and have encountered the frustrating issue of it being plugged in but not charging, you are not alone. This common problem can occur for a variety of reasons, from software glitches to hardware malfunctions. In this article, we will explore some troubleshooting tips to help you identify and resolve the issue, ensuring that your Mac can start charging again promptly.
Check The Power Source:
When your Mac is plugged in but not charging, the first step is to ensure that the power source is working properly. Start by checking if the power outlet you have connected the charger to is functioning by plugging in another device. Additionally, make sure that the power cable is securely plugged into both the power outlet and your Mac.
If you are using a power strip or surge protector, try plugging the charger directly into a wall outlet to rule out any issues with the power strip. Sometimes, power strips can malfunction or overload, preventing the proper flow of electricity.
Another aspect to consider is the power adapter itself. Inspect it for any signs of damage, such as frayed cables or bent pins. If any damage is evident, it may be necessary to replace the power adapter. Sometimes, issues could also arise from a faulty charging cable, so try using a different cable to see if that resolves the problem.
By checking the power source and ensuring all connections are secure and undamaged, you can eliminate potential external causes for your Mac not charging.
Inspect The Charging Cable And Adapter
When your Mac is plugged in but not charging, one of the first things you should check is the charging cable and adapter. Over time, these components can wear out or become damaged, causing issues with charging.
Start by visually inspecting the cable for any frayed or exposed wires. If you notice any signs of damage, it might be time to replace the cable. Additionally, check the adapter for any bent or broken connectors.
Next, try using a different charging cable and adapter, if available, to see if that resolves the issue. Sometimes the problem lies with these components rather than your Mac itself.
It’s also worth cleaning the charging cable and adapter connectors using a soft cloth to remove any dirt or debris that may be interfering with the charging process. Ensure that the connectors fit securely into the charging port on your Mac.
By carefully inspecting and testing the charging cable and adapter, you can determine if they are the cause of your Mac not charging. If the problem persists even after trying different cables and adapters, it may be necessary to explore other troubleshooting steps or seek professional help.
Clean The Charging Port
When your Mac is plugged in but not charging, one common culprit could be a dirty charging port. Over time, dust, lint, and debris can accumulate inside the port, preventing a proper connection between the charging cable and your Mac.
To clean the charging port, first, turn off your Mac and unplug the charging cable. Next, using a small flashlight, inspect the port for any visible dirt or obstructions. Gently blow into the port or use a can of compressed air to remove any loose particles.
If there is stubborn dirt or grime, you can use a clean, small, and soft brush, like a toothbrush or a small paintbrush, to gently brush away the debris. Be cautious not to use excessive force or any sharp objects that could damage the port.
Once you’ve cleaned the charging port, plug in the charging cable firmly and try charging your Mac again. If the issue persists, you can move on to the next troubleshooting step.
Reset The SMC (System Management Controller)
The System Management Controller (SMC) is responsible for managing various hardware components on your Mac, including the battery. If your Mac is plugged in but not charging, resetting the SMC might help resolve the issue.
To reset the SMC on a MacBook with a non-removable battery, follow these steps:
1. Shut down your Mac.
2. Connect the power adapter to your Mac and to a working power source.
3. On the built-in keyboard, press and hold the Shift, Control, and Option keys on the left side, and the power button simultaneously.
4. Release all keys and the power button at the same time.
5. Press the power button to turn on your Mac.
For MacBook models with a removable battery, shut down your Mac, disconnect the power adapter, remove the battery, press and hold the power button for 5 seconds, reinsert the battery, connect the power adapter, and turn on your Mac.
Resetting the SMC can help resolve power-related issues, including problems with charging. If the issue persists, proceed to the next troubleshooting step.
Update MacOS And Reset The NVRAM (Non-Volatile Random-Access Memory)
Updating macOS and resetting the NVRAM are two troubleshooting steps that can help resolve the issue of a Mac plugged in but not charging.
Updating macOS ensures that your system is running the latest software version, which can often fix bugs and software-related issues that may be causing the charging problem. To update macOS, go to the Apple menu, select “System Preferences,” and click on “Software Update.” If an update is available, follow the on-screen instructions to install it.
Resetting the NVRAM can help resolve issues related to settings stored in this memory component, including those concerning power management. To reset the NVRAM, shut down your Mac, then turn it on and immediately press and hold the Option, Command, P, and R keys simultaneously until the computer restarts and you hear the startup sound for a second time.
By updating macOS and resetting the NVRAM, you are addressing both software and potential power management issues, increasing the chances of resolving the problem of your Mac not charging.
Disable Any Battery-draining Apps Or Features
Many times, a non-charging Mac could be attributed to certain apps or features that drain the battery faster than it can charge. To troubleshoot this issue, it is important to identify and disable these battery-draining elements.
First, check the Activity Monitor on your Mac to identify any resource-intensive apps. Open the Activity Monitor by going to Applications > Utilities > Activity Monitor. Look for any applications that consume a significant amount of CPU resources or energy. If you find any, try closing them or force quitting them to see if it helps with the charging issue.
Additionally, certain features like Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, or screen brightness settings can also consume power and affect the charging process. Disable or reduce these settings temporarily and observe if the charging behavior improves.
Another common culprit is background processes like automatic software updates or cloud syncing. Check the settings for these processes and temporarily disable them to see if the charging logic improves.
By systematically disabling battery-draining apps or features, you can identify the root cause of the non-charging issue on your Mac and rectify it accordingly.
Run A Hardware Diagnostics Test
Running a hardware diagnostics test can help identify any underlying issues with your Mac’s battery or charging system. Apple provides a built-in tool called Apple Diagnostics or Apple Hardware Test (depending on your Mac model) to perform this test.
To run the hardware diagnostics test:
1. Make sure your Mac is connected to a power source.
2. Shut down your Mac.
3. Press the power button and immediately hold down the D key until the diagnostics screen appears.
4. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the test. It may take a while to complete.
The hardware diagnostics test will check various components of your Mac, including the battery, charging circuitry, and power management. If any issues are detected, you will be provided with an error code or a detailed report. Note down any error codes or take a screenshot of the report and reach out to Apple Support or an authorized service provider for further assistance.
Running a hardware diagnostics test is a crucial step in troubleshooting a non-charging Mac as it helps pinpoint the exact cause of the issue and guides you towards the appropriate solution.
Consider Seeking Professional Help Or Replacing The Battery
If you have tried all the troubleshooting tips mentioned above and your Mac still isn’t charging, it might be time to consider seeking professional help or replacing the battery. While this may incur some additional cost, it could be the only solution to get your Mac back up and running.
Seeking professional help will ensure that your Mac is examined by experts who can diagnose the issue accurately. They will be able to determine whether the problem lies with the battery itself or if there are any underlying hardware or software issues causing the charging problem.
Sometimes, replacing the battery might be the most viable option. Over time, batteries lose their efficiency and capacity to hold a charge. If your Mac is older and you have been experiencing charging issues for a while, replacing the battery could significantly improve its performance.
Before making a decision, it is advisable to consult with Apple Support or take your Mac to an authorized service center. They will provide guidance on whether professional help or battery replacement is the best course of action for your specific situation.
FAQs
1. Why is my Mac not charging even though it’s plugged in?
If your Mac is not charging despite being plugged in, there could be several reasons for this issue. Common causes include a faulty power adapter, a damaged charging cable, or issues with the charging port on your Mac. To troubleshoot, try using a different power adapter and charging cable, as well as cleaning the charging port to remove any debris or dirt that may be obstructing the connection.
2. What should I do if my Mac’s battery is not charging?
If your Mac’s battery is not charging, there are a few steps you can take to resolve the problem. Firstly, check if the power adapter is properly connected to both your Mac and a working power source. If it appears to be connected correctly, try resetting the System Management Controller (SMC) on your Mac. This can often help resolve charging issues. Additionally, ensure that you are using a genuine Apple power adapter and cable, as third-party accessories may not be fully compatible with your Mac.
3. Is software causing my Mac to not charge?
In some cases, software issues can prevent your Mac from charging. A common software-related cause is a malfunctioning battery management system, which can be resolved by resetting the SMC on your Mac. Additionally, check for any pending software updates for both your macOS and any related system drivers, as these updates often include bug fixes and improvements that may address charging issues. If the problem persists, it may be worth contacting Apple Support or visiting an authorized service provider for further assistance.
The Conclusion
In conclusion, a non-charging Mac can be a frustrating issue to encounter, but troubleshooting the problem can often lead to a resolution. By checking the power connections, resetting the SMC, and considering a battery replacement, users can attempt to fix the issue before seeking professional assistance. It is important to ensure proper charging habits and maintenance to prolong the lifespan of the Mac and prevent further charging problems in the future.