How to Extend Battery Life on All Your Devices
Don't charge overnight; ensure the battery is fully charged before use. Occasionally draining the battery completely is no longer acceptable in the lithium-ion era. In fact, deep discharges can damage battery life. However, surveys show that approximately 33% of users still wait until the battery's remaining charge drops below 10% before charging. It is recommended that electronic devices be kept between 40-80% charge in daily use to reduce frequent deep discharges.
Regarding charging with the device powered off
Second, people often confuse whether charging with the device powered off is necessary. Some argue that charging with the device powered off reduces wear and tear on components and speeds up the charging process; others argue that turning the device on and off is more likely to damage components and that charging is faster with the device powered on. However, turning the device on and off does not significantly affect the components of modern electronic devices. Especially for devices using lithium batteries, powering off and charging helps maintain a low saturation current when the battery is fully charged, thereby reducing the continuous stress on the battery. In contrast, when powered on, most devices bypass the battery to power the device after a full charge. In summary, when powered on, and whether or not they are powered off frequently, are not critical factors for electronic devices.
New Era Battery Characteristics
The characteristics of modern lithium battery devices should also be considered. When powered on, most devices bypass the battery to power the device after a full charge, thus eliminating the need for frequent power-off and charging. Especially for devices using lithium batteries, powering off and charging helps maintain a low saturation current when the battery is fully charged, thereby reducing the continuous stress on the battery. Charging efficiency is higher when the device is powered on, and powering on and off does not significantly affect the components.
To extend battery life, the following measures can be taken:
- Appropriate charging and discharging: Avoid overcharging or discharging. Understand the optimal charging and discharging ranges for each battery type and try to maintain proper battery charge ranges.
- Avoid overheating: High temperatures accelerate battery aging and capacity loss. Avoid exposing the battery to high temperatures and choose a charger with overheat protection.
- Avoid overcharging: Overcharging can cause instability in the battery's internal chemical reactions, potentially shortening its lifespan. Unplug the charger promptly and do not leave the battery fully charged for extended periods.
- Proper storage: Batteries not in use for extended periods should be stored in a dry, cool place and maintained at an appropriate charge level. For removable batteries, avoid storing them in a completely depleted state.
- Avoid overuse: Use the battery appropriately according to needs and avoid excessive charging and discharging.
- Use appropriate charging equipment: Choose a charger that meets the battery's specifications and requirements, and whenever possible, use an original or reliable charger.
- Perform regular maintenance: Clean the contact surfaces of the battery terminals and connectors regularly to maintain good contact and conductivity.
- Avoid overloading: Ensure the battery's rated capacity and power rating are within its rated range and avoid overloading.
- Choose the appropriate battery type: Choose a suitable battery type for your needs, such as lithium-ion or nickel-metal hydride.