Finding your MacBook charger not working can be stressful, and it often happens when you would least expect it. An indicator that the MacBook charger is not working is when there is no green light on the charger when you plug it in, coupled with the battery percent on your MacBook not increasing. These signs point out that there is something wrong with either the MacBook charger or the device itself.
When this happens, there are some troubleshooting tips that you can use to solve the problem of your MacBook charger not working and no green light. These pointers can save you a trip to the technician’s office.
MacBook Charger Not Working, No Green Light – Causes
Several things can cause your MacBook charger to stop working, and the first thing to do is to figure out where the problem is coming from. When you’re plugged in and notice the MacBook charger not working, and no green light comes on, you should check the following to understand the causes of this issue:
Inspect the charger for any damage
Check if the charging cord has started to tear or wear out. If you see wires or cables already coming out, the cord needs to be replaced. Damage can also be dust or particles in the adapter or the charging port, this can be cleaned with a dry rag, cotton swab, or an unused toothbrush, and you can go ahead to check if the problem has been solved by plugging it in. If there’s still no change, move on to check the power outlet.
Check if the power outlet/socket is working well
This should be done by plugging a different electrical device into the socket. Then, if the device powers on, the power outlet is working. Alternatively, you can also plug your MacBook charger in another socket apart and see if you’re still dealing with the MacBook charger not working and no green light. Then, if it begins to charge, it is a power outlet issue and not the charger’s fault.
Check your battery health
Sometimes, the problem might not be the charger but the battery itself. You can check your battery health on sites like Coconut battery to eliminate that possibility. If its charge capacity is 80% or higher, then your battery is okay, but if it is less than 80%, the problem is the battery, and you might need to change it.
Your MacBook Charger might be too hot or too cold
If you’re still dealing with your MacBook charger not working and no green light, then it might be a question of inadequate ventilation. The adapter might be so hot that it cannot function. Avoid placing your charger under thick coverings like blankets or duvets so that it doesn’t heat up.
Another scenario is when you stay in a freezing environment, which might cause the adapter’s temperature to be really low, affecting the MacBook charger. If this is the case, try providing a source of warmth for the charger to enable it to start working.
MacBook Charger Not Working, No Green Light – Best Fixes
When your MacBook charger is not working and there’s no green light on the charger, there are handy fixes that you can use to get it to work, and your MacBook could be up and running in no time.
Fix 1: Try a system management control (SMC) reset
We often recommend a system management control (SMC) reset for charging problems and other issues that affect the normal functioning of the MacBook. The reset stated here is for MacBook Air and MacBook Pro models, and here’s how it’s done:
- Shut down your MacBook.
- Then on your keyboard, check for the location of these keys: Shift key, Option (Alt) key, and Control Key.
- Press down on these keys together with the power button, do this for 10 seconds.
- After that, let go of all the keys you’ve been pressing.
- Click on only the power button and turn ON your MacBook.
- You can now plug the charger into the MacBook to check if it is working.
For other models, Apple has a step-by-step guide specific to the type of MacBook you have. You can check it out here.
Fix 2: Check the cord and plug
Sometimes, the pins of your charger connector are stuck and do not make complete contact with your MacBook. To solve this problem, you have to hold the cord about 3 inches from the magnetic plug’s end and then lightly hit the connector on a hard surface. This should cause the pins to return to their initial position and establish a stable connection.
If that doesn’t work, try unplugging your MagSafe adapter horizontally and then plugging it back in to reset the pins. Pushing the pins lightly in the sideways direction might also cause it to reset. Apple has a comprehensive list here to help you know which one is your MagSafe adapter or cable.
Fix 3: Unplug from the outlet
Try unplugging the power adapter from the wall and allowing it to rest for 1 minute. After this, plug it back in. if your charger starts working, the MacBook charger not working issue probably comes from connecting other electrical appliances like refrigerators in the same circuit as your MacBook. To permanently solve this issue, use a UPS (Uninterrupted Power Supply) to plug your MacBook into a separate circuit.
Why Is My MacBook Not Charging When Plugged In USB-C?
Is your MacBook charger not working when plugged with the USB-C power adapter? First, check if it is a power adapter from Apple. If it is not, you’ll need to get one from them. Also, check if the USB-C cable you’re using supports charging. Other troubleshooting tips are listed above, and you can also find additional suggestions on Apple’s support page.
Read also: Does AppleCare Cover Scratches on AirPods, iPhones, MacBooks, and iWatches?
Why Is My MacBook Plugged In And Not Charging?
If your MacBook is plugged in and not charging, it can be because of the following:
- The charging stops when your battery percent is at 90% or higher. This is because your device is trying to protect your battery life. However, when your battery reduces to a lower level, it begins to charge again. If this is the case, you can change your preferences under battery health management in energy saver.
- Your MacBook is connected to a low power source. And this happens when your device has an adapter with a lower wattage. To prevent this, purchase an adapter with enough watts to charge your MacBook. Find a list specific to your model here.
- Heavy-duty software and games may be draining more power than the charger can provide. If this is the problem, you would have to uninstall these apps to make your MacBook function well.
Can MacBook Be Charged With Any USB-C Charger Or Port?
Yes, if your MacBook initially uses USB-C to charge, then it can be charged with any USB-C charger, although it is preferable to use the USB-C cable and power adapter that came with it so that your MacBook can charge optimally. Older models of MacBook do not use USB-C to charge.
Conclusion
So, if you have a MacBook charger that is not working and shows no green light when plugged in, these suggested fixes should help. However, if you try them all and there’s still no change, then it might be time to get a new MacBook charger for your device.
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John follows everything happening in the tech industry, from the latest gadget launches to some of the big-name moves in the industry. He covers opinionated pieces and writes on some of the biggest names in the industry. John is also a freelance writer, so he shares articles on freelancing every now and then. email: john@tekpip.com