Mac batteries are powerful as they are made of lithium-ion. The material has a high energy density and a low self-discharge rate. Apple says that Mac batteries retain up to 80% of their original capacity even after 1000 charge cycles.
As a MacBook user, you will find this data very impressive. But there are times when you just wonder why my MacBook dies so fast if it has such powerful battery life. Yes, MacBook battery draining fast is a real problem. Here, let’s find out answers to common questions like how long MacBook batteries last and how to handle MacBook Pro battery draining fast.
Issue 1: Laptop overuse (by you or applications)
Possible Cause: Mac overuse by you or some apps causes your MacBook battery to drain faster than usual. Running high-intensity tasks like rendering graphics or gaming apps is known to affect the battery health of MacBook. This leads to batteries draining fast.
How to Fix: To overcome this issue, you should optimize your Mac’s performance with the help of cleaning apps. The apps will identify battery-draining apps and allow you to close unnecessary ones. Also consider limiting multitasking, adjusting settings, and updating software.
If after all these steps, your MacBook Pro battery not holding charge issue is not resolved, you need to learn more about how to fix your MacBook Pro battery draining fast or not holding charge. The issue could be any one of these. Continuous MacBook Pro battery drain issue hampers your productivity and leads to unnecessary frustration. Setapp has resources that can help you learn the basics of MacBook batteries and handle common issues without any professional help.
Issue 2: Using the wrong settings
Possible Cause: We find ourselves immersed in work so we tend to ignore the ideal setting on laptops. The incorrect settings, such as high screen brightness, using high-performance graphics, or leaving Bluetooth on unnecessarily lead to faster battery drain. The battery lifespan MacBook Pro gets reduced with these settings so it harms your laptop both in the long and short run.
How to Fix: Adjust your Energy Saver Preferences to optimize battery life. Lower screen brightness to a decent level, turn off the keyboard backlight when it is not necessary, and disable Bluetooth when not in use.
Issue 3: Mac not charging to capacity or doesn’t charge at all
Possible Cause: Keeping your MacBook at a temperature that is higher than normal or leaving it unused for long periods with a low battery damages its ability to hold a charge.
How to Fix: Charge or discharge the laptop to around 50% before storing it. Keep your Mac Pro in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat. When you don’t use your laptop much, you should still use it at least once in 15-20 days to keep it active.
Issue 4: The wall adapter is malfunctioning
Possible Cause: A malfunctioning wall adapter hinders the proper charging of your Mac. Maybe it is warm or you might even see a spark. The first thing to do in such cases is to unplug it from the power outlet.
How to Fix: Check the cable and adapter for damage. If you see any damage there, get it replaced. Clean the charging port if you find it dirty. Reset the System Management Controller (SMC), and try a different outlet. If you see your Mac charging on hold or not charging at all, these steps might help.
Issue 5: The battery is in poor condition (showing “replace soon” or “replace now”)
Possible Cause: An old or damaged battery that shows “Replace Soon” or “Replace Now” messages need immediate replacement. It’s for your safety and for the laptop’s overall health.
How to Fix: Replace the battery if necessary (if still under warranty, visit an Apple Store or authorized service provider). If the issue is with the Mac Book charger, you might need to buy a new one. If the MacBook charging on hold remains constant and does not work even after a switch on-off, it’s a clear sign that it needs replacement.
Issue 6: It doesn’t charge 100%
Possible Cause: Stopping charging between 93% and 98% is normal to prevent excessive wear on the battery. But if it doesn’t reach 90%, there could be an issue that needs immediate attention.
How to Fix: Try a calibration process. If it doesn’t work, reset the MacBook SMC. This will show the right percentage of reading which can help you assess the device behavior and take corrective actions as per that.
Conclusion
MacBook Pro battery issues can be annoying for users. But with the right troubleshooting, you can improve battery performance and extend its lifespan. By understanding the possible causes and following the suggested fixes, you can ensure your MacBook Pro stays in the best shape. For more complex issues that you fail to overcome, seek assistance from Apple forums or support lines. And of course, if nothing works out, you should visit the nearest Apple store.