How to Fix Phone Not Charging Properly – 13 proven methods
Is your phone not charging no matter what you try? You’re not alone. Many Android and iPhone users face this issue. A phone not charging properly is frustrating, but most problems can be fixed at home.
In this guide, we’ll show you 13 proven methods to solve charging issues. Whether it’s a faulty cable, dirty charging port, or software glitch, we’ve got you covered. Let’s get your phone charging again quickly and safely.
Let’s dive into the most common phone charging problems and how to solve them.
1. Check the Charging Cable and Adapter
One of the first things to do when your phone won’t charge is to inspect your charging cable and power adapter.
- Look for bends, frays, or cuts in the cable.
- Try a different charger or borrow one from a friend.
- Always use original or certified chargers recommended by the phone brand.
Using a cheap or faulty charger can harm your battery and even cause slow or no charging.
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2. Inspect and Clean the Charging Port
Dust, dirt, or lint can easily get stuck in the charging port, especially if you keep your phone in your pocket or bag.
- Use a toothpick, dry brush, or compressed air to gently clean the port.
- Be very careful not to damage the inner components.
Avoid using metal pins or water — this can cause permanent damage.
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3. Try a Different Power Source
Not all power outlets provide equal energy.
- Try charging using a different wall socket.
- Use a USB port, power bank, or even your laptop.
- Avoid surge protectors and low-voltage USB hubs.
Switching power sources can quickly tell if the issue is with the outlet or your phone.
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4. Restart or Reboot Your Phone
Sometimes, the fix is as simple as a restart.
- A quick reboot clears minor software glitches that may interfere with charging.
- Restart your Android or iPhone and try charging again.
It’s amazing how often this simple trick solves charging problems.
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5. Enable Safe Mode to Detect App Conflicts (Android)
Some third-party apps might block charging in the background.
To boot into Safe Mode:
- Press and hold the Power button.
- Long-press “Power off” and tap OK to enter Safe Mode.
- Try charging your phone in this mode.
If it works, a recently installed app might be causing the issue.
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6. Turn Off Your Phone While Charging
Running apps, games, or video calls while charging slows the process and heats up your phone.
- Turn off your phone while charging.
- You’ll notice faster and safer charging.
Background apps consume power and may even pause charging temporarily.
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7. Update Your Phone’s Software
Phone makers often release updates to fix known bugs — including charging bugs.
- Go to Settings > Software Update.
- Download and install the latest update if available.
Keeping your phone’s software up-to-date can help avoid many charging-related issues.
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8. Calibrate Your Battery (Advanced Users)
If your phone battery drops quickly or shows incorrect percentages, try calibrating the battery.
Steps to calibrate:
- Use the phone until it turns off.
- Charge it to 100% without interruption.
- Leave it plugged in for 1 more hour.
- Restart the phone and use it normally.
Only do this occasionally, as frequent calibration can harm battery life.
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9. Avoid Using the Phone While Charging
Using the phone while it’s charging:
- Increases heat, which slows charging
- Damages battery health over time
Avoid watching videos or gaming during charge time. Let your device rest for faster and healthier charging.
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10. Check for Water or Moisture Damage
Your phone may refuse to charge if there’s moisture in the charging port.
Signs of water damage:
- Warning message like “Moisture detected”
- Port looks foggy or has visible water
Fix it by:
- Gently drying the phone with a soft cloth
- Leaving it in a dry place (not rice!)
- Avoiding hair dryers or heat
If it doesn’t work, visit a technician.
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11. Try Wireless Charging (If Supported)
If your phone can, try wireless charging to see if it’s a port problem.
- Put your phone on a Qi-certified wireless charger.
- Ensure your phone is properly aligned.
If wireless charging works but wired doesn’t, your USB port might be broken.
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12. Visit an Authorized Service Center
If nothing works, it might be a hardware issue.
- Faulty charging port
- Defective charging IC (integrated chip)
- Battery wear or motherboard damage
Don’t try to open your phone at home — go to a brand-authorized service center.
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13. Bonus Tips to Prevent Charging Issues
To avoid problems in the future:
- Use only certified charging cables and adapters
- Don’t let your battery drop below 15% regularly
- Avoid overnight charging frequently
- Keep your phone cool while charging
Preventive care can help your battery last longer and avoid charging troubles.
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Conclusion
Just because your phone is not charging properly doesn’t mean it’s damaged. A quick fix is often all you need. These 13 simple solutions can help you get your phone charging again in just a few minutes.
Always use original chargers, keep your phone clean, and avoid overcharging. If nothing seems to work, don’t worry—just visit an authorized service center for expert help.
If you’re facing a charging issue we haven’t mentioned, let us know in the comments! And if this guide helped you, share it with someone who needs it.
FAQs – Fix Phone Charging Issues
1. Why is my phone not charging when plugged in?
It could be a faulty cable, adapter, charging port, or software glitch. Try switching cables or power sources first.
2. Can a software update fix charging issues?
Yes, sometimes updates fix bugs that interfere with charging.
3. Is it safe to use my phone while charging?
Occasionally yes, but frequent use while charging can slow charging and reduce battery health.
4. Should I calibrate my battery regularly?
No. Calibrate only if your battery percentage is behaving oddly.
5. Can I use a different brand charger?
Only if it’s certified and meets your phone’s power requirements. Avoid cheap, uncertified chargers.
6. My phone shows “Moisture detected.” What do I do?
Dry the port gently and leave the phone in a ventilated space. Avoid heat or rice.
7. Is wireless charging better than wired?
Not necessarily. It’s safer in some ways but slower than most fast-charging wired options.
8. Does overnight charging damage the battery?
Occasional overnight charging is okay, but frequent practice may reduce long-term battery life.
9. Why is my phone charging slow even with a fast charger?
Apps running in the background, a damaged cable, or a dirty port could be the reason.
10. How can I make my phone charge faster?
Turn off your phone, use a wall outlet, and close background apps.
11. When should I visit a service center?
If all DIY steps fail, and your phone still doesn’t charge, visit an expert technician.
