How to take care of your laptop battery?

Nowadays, working on a computer is frequently associated with mobile devices which don’t require a permanent connection to the power supply. Modern notebooks, netbooks, and ultrabooks are designed to be taken everywhere and the advanced technology allows to achieve longer performance time. However, sooner or later, our computer will inform us about the charging need due to a low energy level. Below we present the most important rules to extend the operating time as much as possible and to postpone recharging.

1. Reduce screen brightness

This is one of the essential factors which increases energy consumption. Working on a bright screen is certainly much more comfortable: eyes get less tired and the picture is clearer. However, it’s worth decreasing. The darker our screen is, the longer performance time without charging the device could be expected. Do not exaggerate with reducing brightness level, because in a long-term perspective it affects negatively your sight which is more important than the state of our computer’s battery.

2. Limit the number of programs launched at the start-up

Most applications start automatically at the same time as the system does. It’s a practical solution (applications are available right away), but it involves bigger battery’s consumption. This is why we can consider disabling all unnecessary programs. In order to do this, take the following steps:

3. Unplug unnecessary devices

Any device connected to our computer requires a power source. Do not forget to unplug the 3G modem, Bluetooth adapter or external drive when not in use. Especially, an optical drive is a device that requires a lot of energy. It is often replaced by the USB flash drive.

4. Activate power saving mode

It allows to lower a clock speed of components and to control your screen brightness settings, especially when you don’t show any activity on the computer. By enabling the mode, you can extend the battery’s autonomy.

5. Control the temperature

Temperature is an extremely important factor that affects battery life. In order to ensure optimal values, clean from time to time a heat extraction system (with compressed air or a compressor) and avoid using the device on soft surfaces (which could cover cooling holes). The purchase of a cooling mat will be a good solution. Remember to clean your computer only when it’s shut down.

6. Let your battery rest

If you want to take a long break from using a laptop, it’s better to remove the battery and leave it in a cool, dry place, since even disconnected battery loses its energy (but, of course much slower), it’s better to charge it to about 50% to avoid deep discharge. Most of currently available on the market batteries are prone to complete energy loss. It can lead to the capacity reduction or even to a permanent damage. Remember to remove your battery according to the instructions included in the manual, only when the computer is shut down.