Most new computers have built-in tools for checking battery status:
If you are using Windows, as an administrator, open a command prompt and type powercfg /batteryreport to generate a battery report. This will generate an HTML file with lots of details about the status of your battery, such as how much power has been used over time.
In macOS, hold down Option and click the battery icon in the menu bar to check the charge level. To view the cycle counts and status in more detail, go to the System Information and Energy tabs.
2. Third Party Software
Some reliable third-party apps can provide you with a wealth of information about the status of your battery and how it is being used. With BatteryBar for Windows and Coconut Battery for macOS, you can view and obtain information about battery status, capacity and cycles in real time.
3. Check the battery cycle times regularly
Batteries can only be charged a certain number of times before the charge decreases significantly. Regularly checking your battery history will help you understand its lifespan. In most cases, a battery should be replaced when it has lost approximately 80% of its original charge.
4. Use features that manage battery status
Some systems, such as newer macOS devices, have a tool called Battery Health Management that monitors the battery’s charge and temperature history to slow its chemical aging. If you enable these options, they can help you extend the life of your battery.
5. Set the battery parameters
The battery life indicator on your laptop will give you more accurate information as you calibrate the battery. It involves fully charging the battery to 100%, draining it to 0% and then fully charging it again to 100%. This should be done every few months, or more often if you notice that the battery level indicator is not always correct.
6. Adhere to the best charging method
Don’t charge your laptop in extreme ways, such as always leaving it plugged in and charging 100%, or always letting the charge drop to 0%. To keep your battery healthy for longer, try keeping the charge between 20% and 80%.
7. Check the battery temperature
Excessive heat will damage the battery more quickly. If you don’t want to block the vents, don’t use your laptop on a soft surface, such as a bed or chair. Use software tools that can monitor battery temperature to ensure the battery doesn’t get too hot.
8. Learn how to care for your battery.
You can take steps to ensure your laptop battery lasts as long as possible by understanding how it works and how to best maintain it. Device manufacturers’ websites and user manuals often provide specific instructions for your type of device.
In summary
With these tools and tips, you can monitor the health of your laptop battery and take the right steps to ensure it lasts as long as possible. Checking your batteries regularly will not only help them perform optimally, but it will also allow you to plan repairs before they fail completely, impacting your work or personal life.