3 Signs Your Laptop Battery Is About to Fail
Laptop batteries don’t usually die overnight — they give you warning signs first. Spotting them early can save you hassle, money, and sometimes even keep you safe. As someone who sees dozens of faulty laptops across Wickford, Basildon and Rayleigh, here are the top three red flags I’d look out for.
1. The laptop won’t hold charge for long
If you unplug your charger and the laptop dies within an hour (or even a few minutes), the battery cells are wearing out. Over time, batteries lose capacity — but once you’re charging more than you’re unplugged, it’s time to think about a replacement.
2. The battery or case looks swollen
One of the most common faults I see is swollen batteries. The laptop case may bulge, the trackpad might sit unevenly, or the bottom panel can feel “spongy.” This isn’t just annoying — it can be dangerous. Swollen batteries should be replaced quickly before they leak or put pressure on other components.
3. Random shutdowns or charging issues
Does your laptop switch off suddenly at 40% battery, or refuse to charge beyond a certain point? That’s a classic sign of a failing battery. The internal sensors can’t read power levels properly anymore, leaving you guessing.
What to do next
Don’t ignore swelling — stop using the laptop and get it checked.
Get a free diagnosis — I’ll confirm whether it’s just the battery or something deeper.
Consider an upgrade — fitting a fresh battery can extend a laptop’s life for years, often much cheaper than replacing the whole machine.
Local battery replacements in Wickford
At LaunchLayer, I offer battery replacements, laptop servicing, and performance upgrades with a no fix, no fee guarantee. If you’re not sure whether it’s time for a new battery, book a free check-up and I’ll give you clear, no-nonsense advice.
