How do you use MacBook Air if it not charging when plugged into the socket? The reason behind this could be a minor issue with your socket or even the cables that are not attached properly or something deeper like a bug. Here is a short guide to help you resolve the charging issue with your Mac when plugged into the socket.
Follow the methods carefully listed below.
Table of Contents
1. Check for Cables and Adapter
The first thing you need to check is that all the cables and adapters are attached properly. Try unplugging the cable from the port and then plugging it back again. You can try using a different cable to check if the issues lie with the cable.
Do the same for your Mac adapter as well. Unplug it and then plug it in again.
Now, if this does not work, you need to check the power source, i.e., the adapter. There are times when the power source is not giving enough power to charge the battery. Even if you have plugged it in, it will continue to run the MacBook but will not charge the battery.
1. Use only Apple-certified and compatible Mac adapters for charging.
2. Try using a different removable Apple AC Adapter to check if the issue lies with this.
3. Plug your charger into another power outlet and ensure it works well.
4. Unplug your adapter and wait for 60 seconds before plugging it again. See if this works. This could simply be because of Line noise issues caused by disturbances when multiple power sources, such as refrigerators, run through the same electrical line.
Ultimately, if these do not work, you can try another adapter, as your current adapter might not be adequate to charge your Mac.
2. Reboot Your Mac
Now, if your cables and power source are working fine, it is better to simply reboot or restart your Mac. This will take a few simple steps and might fix the issue.
1. Go to the Apple menu on the top-left of your screen.
2. Now, click on Restart.
Wait for the system to start again normally. Then, try plugging in the charger and check if it works.
3. Check Battery Health
If you have an older Mac or a system you have been using for a long time now, you need to check the battery health to determine if the issue lies with the battery itself.
Follow the steps below to check your Mac’s battery health.
1. Go to the Apple menu on the top-left of your screen.
2. Open System Settings from the drop-down menu.
3. Scroll down and click on Battery.
4. Check beside the Battery Health option.
If it says Normal, then your battery is in perfect condition, and no issues are related to it whatsoever. However, if it says Service Recommended, you might have to get it checked or, worse, get it replaced for better performance.
4. Switch Off Optimized Battery Charging
While you are checking the battery’s health, you can also switch off the Optimized Battery Charging feature. It aims to reduce battery stress caused by being charged at maximum capacity often. Instead, when you switch it on, the battery will stop charging above 80% even when plugged in. Maybe that’s why Mac is not charging when plugged in.
1. Go to the Apple menu on the top-left of your screen.
2. Open System Settings from the drop-down menu.
3. Scroll down and click on Battery.
4. Click on the (i) icon beside Battery Health.
5. Then, switch off Optimized Battery Charging.
6. In the dialog box, choose between Turn Off Until Tomorrow or Turn Off
Once done, you can then charge your battery and check if it works normally. This method only works if you are trying to charge your Mac beyond 80%.
5. Reset the SMC
The SMC is responsible for power management on your MacBook. Resetting it might resolve charging-related issues.
Now, for Apple Silicon MacBook, all you need to do is simply restart your Mac to reset the SMC. Below are the steps for an Intel-based Mac.
If unsure, it is easy to check your MacBook’s specifications and other details.
MacBook with T2 Chip
1. Go to the Apple Menu on the top-left of your screen.
2. Click on Shut Down.
3. Press the Control (left) + Option (left) + Shift (right) on your keyboard.
4. Also, press the Power button.
5. Keep pressing the four buttons for about 7 seconds. If your Mac is switched on, it will turn off as well.
6. Keep pressing them for another 7 seconds, and then let go.
Your SMC is now reset. Press the power button to switch on the Mac normally. Check and see if it’s charging now.
MacBook Without T2 Chip
1. Go to the Apple Menu on the top-left of your screen.
2. Click on Shut Down.
3. Then, press Control (left) + Option (left) + Shift (left) on your keyboard.
4. Press the Power button as well.
5. Keep holding all four keys for 10 seconds and then release them.
Press the power button only to start your Mac.
6. Update macOS
Another method you can try is updating your macOS. Updating the system often fixes any issues regarding your system, including battery and charging-related problems. Follow the steps below to update your macOS.
1. Click on the Apple icon on the top-left corner of your screen.
2. Open System Settings.
3. Go to the General tab on your left sidebar and open Software Update on the right sidebar.
4. Wait for the system to check if any updates are available.
5. Then, click on Update Now.
Your Mac will now restart and update in the meantime. Once done, you can check for the charging issue you had been facing earlier.
MacBook Air Not Charging When Plugged In
Tried all the methods listed above? Well, you don’t have to give up on your charger for the charging issues on your MacBook. It could be an internal error, or maybe the power socket isn’t working as needed. So, first check all the cables, adapters, power lines, sockets, and everything on the outside, then go for any internal check-up for your Mac.
