By adopting proper charging practices and using certified chargers, users can significantly extend their smartphone battery life. JUSTICE OKAMGBA writes on tips
Smartphones have become an indispensable part of modern life, serving as tools for communication, work, entertainment, and much more. As our reliance on these devices grows, so does the need to ensure their longevity and performance.
At the heart of this effort lies the battery, the lifeblood of any smartphone. While many users are aware of the risks of overcharging their devices, the role that charger quality and charging habits play in maintaining battery health is often overlooked.
Experts warn that adopting proper charging practices and using certified chargers can significantly prolong a smartphone battery’s life. Here, we explore some key insights and practical tips to help users preserve the health and performance of their device’s battery.
Fake chargers
One of the most overlooked aspects of battery care is the type of charger used.
According to a software developer, Olaleye Morenikeji, the quality of a charger can have a profound impact on a smartphone’s battery.
Many users, in an attempt to save costs, opt for cheaper, uncertified chargers. These counterfeit products often lack essential safety features and are not designed to meet the device’s specific power requirements.
Using low-quality chargers exposes your smartphone to risks such as voltage fluctuations, overheating, and even short circuits, Morenikeji explained. Over time, these problems can degrade the battery’s performance, reducing its capacity and causing it to drain faster.
He advised users to prioritise certified chargers from reputable brands or the original charger that comes with the device. Official chargers are tested and specifically designed to be compatible with your phone’s battery, he noted.
Morenikeji also highlighted the importance of charging practices. It is always better to let your phone’s battery drop to around 10 per cent before plugging it in to charge.
“This simple habit can help prolong the battery’s lifespan and ensure optimal performance,” he said.
Power outages in battery maintenance
In Nigeria, the challenge of maintaining smartphone battery health is compounded by frequent power outages and unreliable electricity supply.
According to the 2022 Energy Progress Report, 92 million Nigerians—nearly half the country’s population—lack access to electricity.
An iPhone user, Emeka Orji, spoke about how these power issues affect his daily life.
“The frequent power outages disrupt our ability to charge devices consistently. It affects not just individuals but also businesses and the broader economy,” he said.
To cope with this reality, many Nigerians have turned to power banks as a backup solution. These portable chargers allow users to recharge their smartphones whenever electricity is unavailable.
While power banks provide convenience, Morenikeji warned against overcharging, even when using these devices.
“Overcharging a phone, whether directly from an outlet or through a power bank, can have negative consequences for the battery’s health. It’s important to unplug your phone once it reaches full charge,” he said.
Balancing convenience with battery health
The quest for a perfect charging routine often boils down to balancing convenience with long-term battery preservation.
Fast charging has become a popular feature in modern smartphones, allowing users to recharge their devices quickly during emergencies or on the go. However, Morenikeji cautioned against relying on fast charging exclusively.
“Fast charging generates more heat, which stresses the battery and accelerates its ageing process. While it’s fine to use fast charging occasionally, it’s better to stick to slower, regular charging for daily use,” he explained.
“Slower charging places less strain on the battery, reducing the risk of overheating and chemical degradation. Although it takes more time, slower charging ensures the battery maintains a more stable and sustained performance over time,” he added.
To maximise battery health, Morenikeji recommended that users use certified chargers made by the device’s manufacturer or reputable brands, allow the battery to drop to around 10 per cent before recharging, avoid overcharging even when using power banks, and use fast charging only when necessary, such as during emergencies.
Understanding battery chemistry
To appreciate the importance of proper charging practices, it’s helpful to understand how smartphone batteries work.
Most smartphones use lithium-ion batteries, which rely on chemical reactions to store and release energy.
Over time, repeated charging and discharging cycles can cause these chemical reactions to degrade, leading to reduced battery capacity and performance.
According to Morenikeji, the way a battery is charged directly influences its longevity. When you overcharge or use an uncertified charger, you expose the battery to undue stress.
Similarly, consistently allowing the battery to drain completely before recharging can strain it. Adopting a balanced approach ensures the chemical components within the battery remain stable, resulting in a longer-lasting power source.
Embracing slow charging
The modern world often demands speed, but when it comes to battery charging, slower is better. Regular charging at a slower rate generates less heat, which in turn minimises wear and tear on the battery’s internal components.
This practice is particularly beneficial for users who prioritise the long-term health of their devices over the immediate convenience of a quick charge.
Although it may take longer to reach a full charge, slow charging reduces the likelihood of overheating, which is one of the leading causes of battery degradation.
This approach is especially recommended for users who charge their phones overnight or during extended periods of downtime.
Conclusion
Smartphone users can extend the life and performance of their devices by paying attention to how they charge their batteries.
Using certified chargers, adopting proper charging habits, and balancing convenience with care are all critical steps in preserving battery health.
By being mindful of these practices, users can ensure that their smartphones remain reliable tools for years to come.
