Technology

Why Won’t My Chromebook Charge? Common Causes and Fixes

Photo of author

By Alexander

A common issue faced by Chromebook users is the device not charging when plugged in. This can be a frustrating experience, as the inability to recharge the battery can limit the laptop’s functionality and utility. Several factors could contribute to this problem, ranging from hardware issues to software glitches. This article will explore various possible causes and solutions to help Chromebook users troubleshoot and resolve the charging issue.

The first step towards addressing the charging issue is to examine the physical components involved. This includes checking the charger, cables, and power outlets for any signs of damage or improper connections. Additionally, it is essential to verify that the charger being used is compatible with the device, especially if the Chromebook employs a USB type C charging cable.

Once the hardware aspects have been evaluated, potential software or system-related problems must be considered. Solutions such as restarting the Chromebook, performing an Embedded Controller (EC) reset, and running AC Adapter Charge Verification tests can help users identify and rectify the underlying causes. The following sections will delve into the specific steps for each of these methods to resolve Chromebook charging issues.

Identifying the Problem

When a Chromebook fails to charge, it’s crucial to identify the root cause to find an appropriate solution. One common issue could be a faulty charger. Check for any frayed wires or loose connections, and ensure it’s securely plugged into a reliable power source. If your Chromebook uses a USB-C cable, it’s recommended to use the original charger or a compatible one that you know works.

Another key factor to consider is the wall outlet. A malfunctioning outlet could result in your Chromebook not charging. Test the outlet by plugging in a different device or use another known working outlet to charge your Chromebook.

In some cases, issues with the device itself could be the reason behind a Chromebook failing to hold a charge. Take note of the LED indicator lights near the charging port to detect any irregularities. When working normally, these lights should be white or orange (depending on the Chromebook model) when charging. If the lights don’t display the expected color or don’t light up at all, it could indicate a problem with the Chromebook’s hardware.

Restart the Chromebook as a preliminary troubleshooting step, as this can sometimes resolve minor issues with charging. If the problem persists even after restarting, consider performing an Embedded Controller (EC) Reset to reset the device’s hardware. Following the reset, observe the LED lights’ behavior and try charging the Chromebook again.

Lastly, a faulty or old battery can be another reason for a Chromebook not charging properly. If the charging indicator doesn’t light up after plugging in the device for at least 15 minutes, the battery might be dead or malfunctioning. In such cases, a battery replacement might be necessary.

Software-Related Issues

Using Crosh to Determine Battery Health

Inspecting the battery health of your Chromebook can help you identify underlying software issues that may lead to charging problems. To evaluate battery health, utilize the built-in command-line tool called Crosh:

  1. Press Ctrl + Alt + T to open the Crosh window.
  2. Type battery_test and hit Enter.
  3. Analyze the displayed battery health percentage.

A significantly low battery health reading may signify software-related issues that require further troubleshooting.

Resetting Your Chromebook

If your Chromebook fails to charge due to software issues, performing a hard reset may resolve the problem. Keep in mind that different Chromebook models have varying hard reset procedures. Here’s a general method to perform a hard reset:

  1. Turn off the Chromebook.
  2. Press and hold the Refresh button.
  3. While holding the Refresh button, press and hold the Power button for about 3 seconds.
  4. Release both buttons.

This reboot process may resolve software-related charging issues and restore your Chromebook’s functionality.

Powerwash for Software Issues

If the hard reset doesn’t address your Chromebook’s charging issues, consider performing a Powerwash or factory reset. This process erases all user data and resets the Chromebook to its original settings. Here’s how to Powerwash your Chromebook:

  1. Log in to the Chromebook and click on the time icon.
  2. Click on Settings (gear icon).
  3. Scroll down and click on Advanced.
  4. Under Reset settings, select Powerwash and Reset.

Note that Powerwashing your Chromebook will delete all local files, so ensure you’ve backed up your data before performing this action.

By addressing software-related issues through battery health inspections, hard resets, and Powerwashing, you can potentially resolve your Chromebook’s charging problems and improve its overall performance.

Hardware-Related Issues

Inspecting the Charging Port

One of the first things to do when troubleshooting a Chromebook not charging is to check the charging port for debris or damage. Use a flashlight to inspect the port closely, as any foreign objects or bent pins can obstruct the connection and prevent charging. Carefully remove any debris using a toothpick or a small brush.

Checking the Adapter and Power Cord

A faulty AC adapter or power cord can prevent your Chromebook from charging. Verify if the adapter is working by connecting it to another device. Also, examine the cord for any visible signs of wear or damage. If the adapter or cord seems damaged, consider replacing them with compatible alternatives.

Replacing the Battery

Over time, the Chromebook battery may lose its charging capacity, leading to a failure to charge fully or at all. Use the laptop settings to check the battery health status. If the Chromebook is out of warranty and the battery health is poor, consider replacing the battery with a compatible one. Remember to follow proper guidelines and safety precautions when replacing internal components.

Using Recovery Mode for Hardware Issues

If your Chromebook is not charging due to an internal hardware or software issue, try using the Chromebook Recovery tool to restore your device. This recovery mode can help identify and resolve problems with the Chromebook’s operating system, potentially fixing the charging issue. To perform a recovery, create a ChromeOS recovery USB following the official guide, and follow the step-by-step instructions during the process.

Are Glitchy Screens and Charging Issues on Chromebooks Related?

When experiencing glitchy screens and charging issues on Chromebooks, it’s important to consider the understanding and solving chromebook screen issues. These problems can be related, with screen glitches sometimes stemming from charging issues. It’s best to troubleshoot both problems to ensure optimal functionality.

What Could be Causing My Theragun Battery Not to Charge?

If your Theragun battery is not charging, there could be a few potential issues. Start your Theragun battery troubleshooting by checking the charging cord for any damage. Also, make sure the charging port on the device is clean and free of debris.

Alternative Solutions

If the standard solutions don’t work, there are alternative fixes to try when your Chromebook isn’t charging. Remember to remain confident and patient when attempting these methods.

First, you can try an EC reset. This helps reset your Chromebook’s hardware and fix charging issues. To perform the EC reset:

  1. Turn off the device.
  2. Press and hold down the Refresh button (on the keyboard) along with the Power button for a few seconds.
  3. Release both buttons when the device starts to turn on.

Another solution is to update your Chromebook’s software. Sometimes, outdated software can cause charging issues. To update:

  1. Connect your Chromebook to the internet via Wi-Fi.
  2. Click on the clock icon in the bottom right corner.
  3. Open the Settings menu by clicking the gear icon.
  4. Scroll down and select “About Chrome OS.”
  5. Choose “Check for updates” and install any available updates.

In addition, consider testing the charger with a different USB-C device or using an alternative cable. This helps determine if the issue is with the charger itself or the Chromebook.

Furthermore, backing up your data to Google Drive is a wise precautionary measure. This ensures that you won’t lose any important information when trying to fix the charging problems. To backup:

  1. Open Google Drive on your Chromebook.
  2. Click “New” and then “Folder” to create a new folder to store the backup.
  3. Drag and drop files into the folder to upload them to Google Drive.

Lastly, remember to inspect USB ports on your Chromebook for dust or debris that could interfere with charging. If you find any obstructions, carefully clean the ports using compressed air or a soft brush.