The way you’re charging your phone is killing your battery. Sounds dramatic, we know, but there’s no getting around this: even if you are cautious about the apps that you download (and the amount of storage space and battery they take from your phone), your charging habits will factor in a great deal if your goal is to prolong the life of your phone’s battery and the device itself.
One of the best things you can do for your phone is to get a handle on better charging habits. Stop making these five all-too-common mistakes and you can help prolong the longevity of your device. You’ll save money in the long run and experience a better, more efficient experience in the short term.
1. Overcharging
There is no benefit in charging your phone to 100 percent and letting it sit there still charging for hours more. This habit can generate heat and put unneeded stress on your battery instead. Avoid overcharging your device by charging it for short bursts throughout the day and keeping its charge within the 30 to 80 percent range. You can also set your device to Optimized Battery Charging so that your phone learns your charging habits and trickles the charge so it doesn’t reach 100 percent and stay there for hours.
2. Using Incompatible Chargers
Trying to save money on chargers and charging cables is one thing; cheaping out and buying non-Apple certified accessories is another. These incompatible chargers can deliver an insufficient or too-rapid charge that causes your phone to heat up and leads the battery degradation.
3. Using Your Phone While It’s Charging
When possible, leave your phone alone while it’s charging. The act of charging it generates heat; you’ll only add heat to the mix by also using your phone while it is charging.
4. Ignoring Software Updates
Some software updates include upgrades in its battery that can improve battery lifespan. Don’t ignore these updates or wait weeks to do this — it can help optimize charging and battery health.
5. Charging Your Phone in Extreme Temperatures
Avoid charging your phone in a hot car, hot room, or freezing-cold environments. The basic rule is: the iPhone battery dislikes extreme temperatures. Keep your phone in room temperature conditions as often as possible and don’t charge it in a too-hot or too-cold space.
