I get requests all the time to replace laptop batteries. Usually, it is a fairly simple process. I get the serial number and the brand of laptop and search for the correct battery. Once it comes in the mail, I install the battery, and my customer is happily back to mobile computing.
Every so often I run across a battery that is damaged, and the simple battery swap gets a little scary. Here is a picture from a recent battery swap.
The battery on the bottom is the one I just pulled out of a laptop. The one on the top is the new one I am about to install. I knew it was a problem before I opened up the laptop. I could see that the keyboard was bulging, the laptop did not close flat, and while removing the screws the back was actually popping open.
Why does this battery look like this? It is a phenomenon called THERMAL RUNAWAY. If left unchanged, this battery could actually explode and cause a chemical fire. This is why they are restricted on airplanes and are always identified when being shipped.
What causes thermal runaway? There are a lot of things that can cause it, physical damage, exposure to high temperatures, manufacturing defects, aging, electrolyte leakage and poor ventilation, but the most likely cause is overcharging.
Many people treat their laptops like they are desktops. They leave them plugged in all the time. This can cause thermal runaway in extreme cases but even if it doesn’t swell and threatens to burst open your laptop, it will degrade the battery and cause it to not hold a charge.
The best thing you can do to keep your battery working properly and not expanding inside your laptop is to use the battery. Unplug the cord when the battery is fully charged and don’t plug it in until it is at or below 10%. It is alright to let it completely drain the battery occasionally. While charging the battery monitor it and unplug it as soon as it is full.
Here is a video that explains proper battery use and care.
Want to get my computer services updates and reminders directly into your email inbox? Sign up for my FREE Newsletter!