Signs your laptop needs a new battery

No matter how well you take care of it, your laptop battery doesn't last forever. Most are good for at least a few years, but eventually they start to weaken due to wear and tear, exposure to extreme heat, and even lack of use. So how do you know when to replace your laptop battery?

At Asurion, we help millions of people get the most out of their tech, from securing your home Wi-Fi network to backing up important files on your MacBook® or Windows™ laptop. Here are the signs your laptop needs a new battery.

Your laptop battery dies sooner than it used to

Most laptops can last anywhere from 3 to 10 hours. If your Mac or PC needs to charge up more frequently—or if a full charge lasts only 15 to 30 minutes—it's time to replace the battery.

Your laptop takes a long time to charge

A healthy laptop will charge quickly, so if you notice that yours is taking longer than usual—or if it's not charging at all—the battery is a likely cause.

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Your laptop dies unexpectedly

When a laptop suddenly turns off, especially when it's mostly or fully charged, it could be a sign of a faulty battery. Glitches do happen, so if your laptop dies, connect it to the power source to see if it will turn on. If it doesn't, a new battery could resolve the issue.

Your laptop battery looks bloated

If your laptop battery is cracked or your laptop looks puffy near the keyboard or trackpad, your battery is swollen. You should avoid using your device, and you shouldn't forcibly remove the battery—it's rare, but damaged batteries can catch fire or explode. Instead, bring your computer to a to take care of the problem.

Your laptop overheats

Your laptop cools itself as you use it. So if you notice your computer feels hot, that means the battery isn't working properly. You might also hear the internal fans working on overdrive, trying—unsuccessfully—to cool your device. When this happens, unplug your laptop and stop using it to limit potential damage. Then replace the battery.

Your laptop tells you

Both macOS® and Windows™ computers now alert you when your battery needs to be replaced. If you see this warning, bring your device to a . If you do need a new battery, check the warranty on your laptop to see if you're eligible for a free replacement. You can also bring your laptop to your nearest where an expert can help with your battery issues.