In this article, we will explore the reasons behind the battery percentage dropping while charging an Android phone and provide practical troubleshooting steps to resolve the problem.
I. Understanding the Battery Charging Process
To better comprehend why the battery percentage might decrease during charging, it is essential to have a basic understanding of how the battery charging process works on Android devices.
Battery Charging Modes
a. Trickle Charge: The initial charging stage, where the battery is charged slowly to increase its voltage gradually. b. Fast Charge: Once the battery voltage reaches a certain threshold, the charging process speeds up. c. Trickle Charge Again: In the final stage, the charging speed slows down to avoid overcharging.
Charging Indicators
a. Battery Percentage: Represents the current charge level of the battery. b. Charging Symbol: Appears when the device is connected to a charger. c. Charging Animation: Indicates that the battery is actively being charged.
II. Possible Reasons for Battery Percentage Drop While Charging
Several factors can contribute to the battery percentage decreasing during charging. Understanding these causes will help us identify the appropriate solutions:
Faulty Charging Cable or Adapter
Inadequate or damaged charging cables or adapters can hinder the charging process and cause the battery percentage to drop while connected to a charger. Ensure you use high-quality cables and adapters that are compatible with your Android device.
Power-Intensive Applications and Background Processes
Running power-hungry apps or multiple background processes while charging can cause the battery to drain faster than it can charge. Background syncing, automatic updates, and resource-intensive apps should be temporarily disabled during the charging process.
Overheating Issues
Excessive heat generated during charging can impact the battery’s performance. If the device becomes too hot, it may prioritize cooling down rather than charging the battery, resulting in a decrease in battery percentage.
Battery Degradation
Over time, smartphone batteries can degrade, losing their capacity to hold a charge. If your device’s battery health is deteriorating, it may struggle to maintain the charging level, causing the battery percentage to drop even when connected to a charger.
III. Troubleshooting Steps to Fix the Issue
Now that we have identified potential causes, let’s explore some practical steps to resolve the problem of the battery percentage going down while charging an Android phone:
Use a Certified Charging Cable and Adapter
Ensure that you are using a high-quality charging cable and adapter that are specifically designed for your Android device. Using certified accessories reduces the chances of voltage fluctuations and improves the charging efficiency.
Close Power-Intensive Applications and Background Processes
Close unnecessary apps and disable power-hungry background processes to minimize battery consumption while charging. Go to the “Settings” menu, access “Battery” or “Battery Usage,” and identify power-hungry apps. Force stop or disable them temporarily during the charging process.
Enable Airplane Mode
Activating Airplane Mode disables all network connections, reducing battery consumption. This mode can help charge the device faster and prevent unnecessary battery drain during the charging process.
Keep the Device Cool
Avoid exposing the device to direct sunlight or extreme temperatures while charging. Remove any protective cases that may trap heat and impede proper cooling. If necessary, place the device in a cool and well-ventilated area during charging.
Calibrate the Battery
Sometimes, inaccurate battery percentage readings can lead to the perception of battery drain during charging. Calibrating the battery can help rectify this issue. Allow the battery to discharge completely, then recharge it to 100% without interruption. This process can recalibrate the battery level indicator.
Check Battery Health
Use reputable battery health apps or the built-in diagnostics in your Android device to assess the battery’s health. If the battery is significantly degraded, it may be time to consider replacing it.
Conclusion
Experiencing a battery percentage drop while charging an Android phone can be frustrating, but with the right troubleshooting steps, you can overcome this issue. By using certified charging accessories, managing power-intensive applications, maintaining proper device temperature, and calibrating the battery, you can optimize the charging process and ensure a stable battery percentage during charging. If the problem persists, consulting a professional technician or contacting the device manufacturer’s support may be necessary.