How to know when it’s time to replace your phone battery
We’ve seen countless phones come through our shop with one common issue—a battery that doesn’t hold up like it used to. It’s an inevitable part of the life cycle of any mobile device. Batteries are consumable components that degrade over time, and knowing when to replace them is vital for maintaining your phone’s performance. Today, let’s explore when to replace a phone battery and discuss some telltale signs you should watch out for.
Reduced Battery Life
Of course, a significant decrease in battery life is one of the most apparent signs your phone battery needs attention. If you find yourself reaching for the charger more frequently than before, or if your battery percentage plummets even when you’re not actively using your phone, it’s a clear indicator that the battery’s capacity has diminished.
Slow Charging
Have you noticed your phone taking an eternity to charge? If your device is sluggish to reach full charge, or worse, your phone doesn’t fully charge after being plugged in for a long time, it probably has a battery struggling to retain energy. This slow charging can disrupt your daily routine and is a sign that the battery may need replacing.
Sudden Shutdowns
Another frustrating experience is when your phone shuts down unexpectedly. If your device powers off without warning, and especially if this happens when the battery isn’t even close to 0%, it’s a strong indication of a faulty battery. These sudden shutdowns can cause data loss and disrupt your activities, so it’s best to address the issue promptly.
Overheating
Does your iPhone, Google Pixel or Samsung phone become unusually hot during charging or normal use? It could indicate a battery issue. Overheating can degrade the battery’s performance and even pose safety risks, so if you notice this sign, it’s time to bring your device to the nearest phone repair shop for battery replacement.
Performance Issues
When to replace a phone battery? Does it have noticeable performance issues?
Lag or a general slowdown in phone performance can sometimes be attributed to battery problems, especially if the device performs well only when connected to a charger. Bring your phone to a phone repair technician; they can help you determine whether the cause of performance issues is a battery needing replacement or an entirely different software or hardware problem.
Battery Swelling or Bulging
A swollen battery can push against the phone’s casing or screen, and it is a clear sign you need to replace your phone battery. A bulging battery can damage your phone and pose a significant safety hazard. Don’t hesitate to replace it right away.
Age of the Battery
When to replace an iPhone or Samsung battery? If your iPhone or Samsung battery is several years old, it may naturally reach the end of its useful life due to the chemical ageing process, even if other signs discussed here are not as pronounced.
The Importance of Quality Battery Replacements
Is it time to replace your battery? Choosing a genuine or high-quality replacement cannot be overstated. It should be compatible with your phone model and meet all safety standards. Always purchase batteries from reputable suppliers and, if possible, directly from the phone manufacturer or authorised dealers. This ensures you receive a battery designed to work seamlessly with your device, maintaining its performance and safety. Keep in mind that low-quality or counterfeit batteries can introduce a host of new problems, from poor performance to potential safety hazards. These subpar batteries can damage internal components and may even pose a fire risk.
Should You Replace Your Phone Battery at Home?
How to know when to replace a phone battery is half the battle; the other half is doing it properly. You may think of replacing your phone battery at home, but it will come with several risks that should be carefully considered before attempting the process. Here are some of the potential hazards and issues you might encounter:
- Risk of Physical Damage to the Phone: Opening up your phone can lead to accidental damage to internal components. The process often involves dealing with delicate parts that can be easily damaged if not handled correctly.
- Voiding Warranty: DIY mobile battery replacement can void your phone warranty. If any issues arise after the replacement, you may not be able to get support from the manufacturer.
- Compromised Water Resistance: If your phone is water-resistant, opening it up to replace the battery can compromise its seals. That can leave your device vulnerable to water damage in the future.
- Safety Hazards: Don’t forget about the risk of personal injury when replacing a phone battery. Lithium-ion batteries can catch fire or explode if punctured or handled improperly. Overheating the phone during the process (for example, using a hair dryer to loosen the adhesives) can ignite the battery, too.
- Battery Health and Performance Issues: As mentioned, using a non-original or low-quality battery can lead to reduced performance and longevity. Third-party batteries may not match the quality and safety standards of the original manufacturer’s parts and can degrade faster or not interact with your phone’s hardware effectively.
- Loss of Features: Some phones, particularly iPhones, may not recognise a non-original battery, which can result in the loss of certain functionalities, such as battery health monitoring, and may trigger warning messages.
- Environmental Concerns: Improper disposal of the old battery can harm the environment. Batteries contain toxic heavy metals and should be recycled properly to prevent environmental damage.
Given these risks, you must weigh the benefits of replacing your phone battery at home against the potential downsides. If you’re not experienced with electronics repair, it will be safer and more prudent to have your battery replaced by a professional or an authorised service provider.
Summing It Up
Knowing when to replace a phone battery can be a huge help in restoring your phone’s performance and reliability. So, if you’re experiencing reduced battery life, slow charging, or sudden shutdowns, or you have an old phone battery, it’s likely time for a phone battery replacement. If you’re unsure about the process or need assistance, don’t hesitate to reach out to us here at Dr Boom Communications. Our stores across Australia have on-site phone repair technicians ready to help you with Samsung or iPhone battery replacement services. Drop by one of our shops today.
