Laptop not Charging
Is your laptop plugged in but not charging? When deadlines are approaching and your computer refuses to power on, it can be stressful. If it is your only device and you have no backup of your files, the situation feels even worse. At Fix My Laptop Brisbane, we see this problem every day. The most common cause is a faulty charger, which is usually quick and affordable to replace. In some cases, you may need a new battery or a board-level repair. Bring your laptop in before the battery goes completely flat and our technicians will diagnose the issue fast.
Is It a Broken Charger?
Most laptops today still rely on proprietary chargers, which means you usually need one made by the same brand. If you own several laptops from a single manufacturer, their chargers may work across different models, but not always.
Business models such as HP ProBook or EliteBook often use different chargers compared to consumer models like the HP Pavilion or Envy. Lenovo makes things even more complicated, with five or more charger types, some of which are uncommon and difficult to replace.
Charger compatibility depends on both the connector type and the voltage. The wattage can be higher without issue, and in some cases lower, but there is no guarantee it will charge properly. For example, a 90W charger will power a laptop that needs 65W, but the opposite may fail.
Newer laptops are increasingly adopting USB Type C charging, which is quickly becoming the standard. With this option, any charger of equal or higher wattage usually works. Lightweight models such as the Apple MacBook Air can even charge from a car’s 12V port, making them convenient for travel.
Is it an Old Battery?
If your laptop battery is failing, replacement is the only fix. Windows and macOS often warn you, but the signs appear earlier. A weak battery may last minutes, less than an hour, or stop charging completely.
Older laptops often come with a user-serviceable battery that can be swapped out in less than a minute. Modern designs are different and usually require full disassembly, which is why it is safer to bring your device to a computer repair shop like us. At Fix My Laptop Brisbane, we replace batteries quickly and use trusted parts to keep your system running reliably.
When shopping online, be cautious with what you buy. We always recommend original batteries supplied by the manufacturer. Many of the cheaper options are third-party products with lower quality standards. They may work for a short time, but they rarely last. In some cases, poor-quality or counterfeit batteries can even swell or pose fire risks. Choosing the right replacement protects both your laptop and your safety.
Is it the DC Jack
A broken DC jack, also known as the laptop power port, is a common reason a laptop stops charging. If the port fails, the battery cannot recharge. Once the battery runs out, the laptop will no longer power on at all.
The DC power jack is an essential part of your laptop because it connects the charger to the device and keeps the battery powered. When it stops working, the laptop may not charge or receive power even though it is plugged in. Problems with the DC jack are more common than you might think.
Physical damage is often the main cause. Pulling the charger cord too hard can loosen or break the jack, and frequent plugging and unplugging wears it out over time. Another sign of trouble is when the charger only works at a certain angle or if you need to apply pressure for it to connect.
If you notice these issues, it is best to act quickly before the damage gets worse. At Fix My Laptop Brisbane, we replace faulty DC jacks and restore reliable charging. Most replacements cost between $120 and $150. For laptops with soldered or USB-C jacks, repairs are usually around $250.