Start with the right charger for your device
The first step is making sure you have a charger designed for your specific device. Check your device's manual or the manufacturer's website to find the correct model number. Using the wrong charger — one with the wrong voltage or connector type — can damage your battery or device, or stop charging altogether.
Most modern phones and tablets use either USB-C, Lightning (Apple devices), or Micro-USB connectors. Older devices may use proprietary connectors. If you have lost your original charger, buy a replacement from the manufacturer or a certified third-party maker rather than an unmarked generic charger, which may not deliver the right power safely.
Key Takeaways
- Match your charger to your device by checking the connector type and voltage rating on both the charger and your device manual.
- Plug the charger into a working wall outlet or power strip, then connect the cable to your device's charging port.
- Look for a charging indicator — usually a light on the device or a symbol on the screen — to confirm the connection is working.
- Keep the charging port and cable connector clean and dry, and avoid bending the cable sharply near the connector.
- Unplug the charger from the wall outlet when not in use, rather than leaving it connected indefinitely.
Connect the charger cable to your device
Locate the charging port on your device. On most phones and tablets, this is on the bottom edge, though some devices have it on the side. The port is usually a small rectangular or oval opening. Gently insert the charging cable connector into the port until you feel it seat firmly. Do not force it — the connector should slide in smoothly.
Some cables are directional and only fit one way. If the connector does not slide in easily, flip it over and try again. Do not wiggle it side to side or push hard, as this can bend the connector pins or damage the port.
Plug the charger into power
Once the cable is connected to your device, plug the charger's power adapter into a wall outlet or power strip. The outlet should be in a location where the cable will not be stepped on or pinched. Avoid plugging the charger into an outlet that is already handling heavy electrical load, such as one shared with a space heater or microwave.
If you are using a power strip, make sure it is rated for the charger's wattage. Most phone and tablet chargers draw 5 to 30 watts, which any standard power strip can handle. Check the wattage on the charger's label if you are unsure.
Confirm the device is charging
Within a few seconds of plugging in, your device should show a charging indicator. This might be a light on the device itself, a charging symbol on the screen, or a percentage increase in the battery display. If nothing appears after 10 seconds, unplug the charger and check two things: whether the charging port is clean and whether the cable is fully seated in the port.
If the device still does not show charging, try a different outlet to rule out a problem with the power source. If a different outlet works, the original outlet may be faulty or switched off. If no outlet works, the cable or charger may be damaged.
Keep the charging port and cable in good condition
Dust, lint, and moisture in the charging port prevent the connector from making good contact. If your device is not charging even though the cable looks fine, use a dry cotton swab or a small flashlight to look inside the port. If you see lint or debris, gently remove it with a dry swab or a wooden toothpick — never use metal, which can short the port.
The cable itself wears out over time, especially near the connector where it bends. Avoid wrapping the cable tightly around the charger or bending it sharply. When you unplug the cable, hold the connector itself rather than pulling on the cable. If the cable frays, stops charging intermittently, or feels hot during use, replace it rather than continuing to use it.
Unplug when charging is complete
Once your device reaches full charge, unplug the charger from the wall outlet. Leaving a charger plugged in indefinitely draws a small amount of power even when nothing is connected, and it can shorten the charger's lifespan. Most modern devices stop drawing current once the battery is full, but unplugging removes any risk.
If you use the device while it is charging, unplug it once the battery reaches 100 percent rather than leaving the charger connected while you use it. Charging while the device is in active use generates heat, which can stress the battery over time.
Troubleshoot a charger that is not working
If your device will not charge, work through these steps in order. First, try a different outlet — the original outlet may be off or faulty. Second, inspect the charging port for debris and clean it if needed. Third, check the cable for visible damage like fraying, cracks, or bent connectors. Fourth, try a different cable if you have one available, to see whether the problem is the cable or the charger itself.
If the device charges with a different cable but not the original one, the cable is damaged and should be replaced. If the device does not charge with any cable, the charging port itself may be damaged, and you may need to contact the manufacturer or a repair service. If the outlet works for other devices but not the charger, the charger's power adapter may be faulty.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a charger from a different brand if it has the same connector?
Only if the voltage and amperage match your device. Check the label on both chargers. A charger with the same connector but different voltage can damage your battery. When in doubt, use the original charger or one certified by your device's manufacturer.
Is it bad to leave a charger plugged in overnight?
Modern devices stop drawing current once the battery is full, so leaving it plugged in overnight will not damage the battery. However, unplugging the charger when charging is complete saves a small amount of energy and extends the charger's lifespan.
Why does my charger get hot?
Chargers naturally warm up during use, but they should not be too hot to touch. If the charger is very hot or smells like burning plastic, unplug it when ready and stop using it. A charger that overheats may be damaged or faulty and could pose a safety risk.
What should I do if the charging port is wet?
Do not plug in the charger. Let the device dry completely in a warm, dry place for at least 24 hours before attempting to charge. If moisture is trapped inside the port, using the charger could cause a short circuit. If the device does not dry or still will not charge after drying, contact the manufacturer.
Can I charge my device with a charger that has higher wattage?
Yes, as long as the voltage is correct. A higher-wattage charger will not overcharge your device — your device draws only the current it needs. However, a charger with lower wattage than recommended may charge very slowly or not at all.