A swollen laptop battery is a safety issue as well as a repair issue. It can push the trackpad upward, lift the keyboard, open a gap in the case, or make the laptop wobble on a desk. If you see these signs, stop pressing the case flat and avoid charging until the device is inspected.

Battery swelling can happen as cells age or after heat, impact, charging faults or long storage. It is not something to puncture, squeeze or bend. The goal is controlled removal and safe replacement if the rest of the laptop is worth keeping.

Symptoms that point to battery trouble

Short runtime, sudden shutdowns, a percentage that jumps, charging only sometimes, or the laptop working only on the charger can all suggest battery or charging system issues. Swelling is the most visible warning, but not the only one.

If the laptop contains important data, back it up if it is safe to do so. If the case is distorted or the device gets hot while charging, do not keep using it just to finish a task.

What to bring for diagnosis

Bring the charger with the laptop. The charger rating, battery condition and charging circuit may all be part of the same fault. Photos of the case gap or raised trackpad can help before a visit.

AEPC / AKL East PC checks laptop battery and charging issues in Auckland. We can assess whether the battery, charger, port or board needs attention. Contact 0279-088880 or visit 9/28 Torrens Road, Burswood, Auckland 2013.