Fact or Fiction: Leaving Devices Plugged In Kills the Battery

There are countless myths surrounding device batteries in the industry today that it's difficult to sort out the truth from fiction. Today's advanced batteries are incredibly durable in almost any situation. If you're concerned about prolonging the life of your battery, discover the simple ways that manufacturers have improved these components and how they impact your life.

No Memory At All

In the past, device batteries were often ran off of NiCad or nickel-cadmium batteries. This technology did have some memory so many consumers still apply this concept to today's lithium-ion batteries. However, the newest batteries don't have any kind of memory. You can run the battery down or charge it up at 80 percent, and you'll still have a strong, power source. The concept of training a battery isn't necessary anymore. If your battery seems to have some strange tendencies after a few years of use, the cells may be breaking down. A replacement is in order during these situations.

The Optimal, Charge Range

Many consumers are under the impression that their battery must operate above 50 percent and preferably closer to 100 percent. If this situation was the case, you'd have to continually attach the device to the charger. For most device batteries, their optimal range is between 40 and 80 percent. There's enough power for most apps, including gaming, and every background operation has energy to complete downloads and other functions. Dropping below the 40-percent level doesn't hurt the battery, but you'll notice operational issues. Apps that don't run as smoothly may need more power.

Smart Components During Overnight Charging

One of the biggest debates surrounding device batteries is overnight-charging parameters. Leaving the battery on the charger every night will certainly kill it, which is the current consensus. However, there's no truth to this statement. As the battery completes its charging session, the smart components within the device control any incoming power. In essence, the device shuts off the incoming power through the charger until you physically remove it from the wall. Device manufacturers recommend that you don't charge overnight on a regular basis, but irregular plugins won't harm the battery.

Extreme Temperatures Are Killers

Circumstances that truly affect batteries are extreme temperatures. Consider excessive heat. Your battery and components have a maximum limit to the temperatures that they can withstand. Adding your device to hot conditions, such as near a heater, can harm both the battery and internal components. Try to keep the battery in room-temperature conditions for the most part. Cold conditions will also kill a battery over time. Although you wouldn't put your device in the freezer, it's these types of conditions that are extremely harmful to lithium-ion batteries. The old trick of placing your battery in the refrigerator for a longer lifespan is merely a myth.

Select "Good" Chargers

An issue that can negatively impact your battery is the charger. Ideally, use the recommended charger by the manufacturer. Third-party chargers aren't bad choices, but they can vary with their voltage and current values. Try to pick these chargers with care. Compare the specifications with your device and installed battery. Picking a charger that has the closest specifications to the original equipment will ensure that your battery keeps running. Chargers with poor current control or extra energy will only harm the battery over time.

A battery that tends to drain very quickly or surges at times is ready to be replaced. Many devices have permanent batteries that cannot be officially replaced too. Work with your device's manufacturer to verify the best way to swap out this component. A good battery will always keep you running.