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Is your MacBook Pro battery draining too fast or running low too often? This blog explores common battery issues with Apple’s laptops and simple fixes to diagnose and resolve problems for longer battery life.
Key Takeaways:
- MacBook Pro batteries can drain faster than normal due to overuse, incorrect settings, poor storage methods, faulty chargers, or degraded batteries.
- Solutions include optimizing settings, storing properly, replacing worn chargers, calibrating batteries, and, when necessary, replacing aging batteries.
- Draining and recharging batteries can recalibrate them and resolve some charging issues. For non-charging issues, resetting the SMC often helps.
- Normal charging stops before 100% to prevent excess wear. However, consistent stopping below 90% may indicate an issue needing attention.
- Seeking help from Apple support or forums is recommended if battery issues persist without explanation.
Let’s dive in!
Some Quick Facts About Mac Battery
MacBook batteries tend to last longer due to the optimization of hardware and software by Apple. Mac also has a more power-efficient design with Retina displays, which consume less energy than traditional displays.
Some facts related to Mac batteries are:
- Apple claims Mac batteries retain up to 80% of their original capacity after 1000 charge cycles.
- Mac batteries have a built-in microprocessor communicating with Mac’s operating system to determine the power needed. It ensures power is only used when necessary.
- Mac batteries are made of lithium-ion, a rechargeable MacBook battery commonly used in electronics. Lithium-ion batteries have a high energy density, meaning they can store energy in a small space. They also have a low self-discharge rate, meaning they can hold their charge for a long time when not used.
- Mac batteries shut down automatically if they get too hot. It helps prevent damage to the Macbook battery and the Mac itself. If your Mac battery is getting hot regularly, it could be a sign of a problem, and you should get it checked out.
- Apple has a program called Apple Recycling that allows customers to send in their old Mac batteries for recycling. The program is free and helps reduce the environmental impact of electronic waste.
Your MacBook Battery Is Draining Faster Than Normal
Your MacBook battery draining faster than normal can be caused by various factors such as overuse, wrong settings, and poor storage methods. It could also indicate that your Mac battery is in poor condition and needs to be replaced.
Here are a few common MacBook battery issues that you should know about.
Issue 1: Overuse (By You Or Applications)
Possible Cause: Overuse by the user or applications can cause your MacBook battery to drain faster than normal. When your MacBook is overused, the processor and other components work harder than necessary, leading to a faster MacBook battery drain.
Additionally, performing tasks requiring a lot of computing power, such as rendering graphics or running virtual machines, can cause your MacBook battery to drain faster than normal. It’s essential to monitor your usage and close any applications that are not in use to extend your MacBook Pro battery life.
How To Fix:
There are several steps you can take to fix this issue. One way is to use CleanMyMac, a powerful app that can help optimize your Mac’s performance and improve your MacBook battery life.
To fix overuse issues using CleanMyMac, follow these steps:
- Download and install CleanMyMac on your MacBook Pro.
- Launch the app and select the Optimization tab.
- Click on the Battery Life option.
- CleanMyMac will scan your MacBook Pro for battery-draining apps and processes.
- Once the scan is complete, click the Remove button next to the apps or processes consuming excessive Mac battery power.
- You can also use the Maintenance tab in CleanMyMac to clear your Mac’s cache and remove unnecessary files, improving your MacBook Pro’s battery life.
Using CleanMyMac is just one way to fix overuse issues that cause your MacBook battery to drain faster than normal.
Other solutions include limiting multitasking, adjusting your settings, updating your software, or replacing a faulty Macbook battery.
Issue 2: Using The Wrong Settings
Possible Cause: The wrong settings on your MacBook can cause your Macbook battery to drain faster than normal. For example, having the screen brightness too high, using high-performance graphics, or leaving Bluetooth on when not in use can all contribute to battery drain.
How To Fix:
To fix the wrong settings that may be causing your MacBook battery to drain faster than normal, you can take the following steps:
- Adjust Energy Saver Preferences: Open System Preferences and click on Energy Saver. From there, you can adjust settings such as “Turn display off after” and “Put hard disks to sleep when possible” to save battery life.
- Reduce Screen Brightness: Lowering your screen brightness can also save battery life. You can adjust the screen brightness by pressing the F1 key until the screen dims to a comfortable level.
- Turn Off Keyboard Backlight: If your MacBook has a backlit keyboard, you can save battery life by turning it off. You can do this by pressing the F5 key until the keyboard backlight turns off.
- Disable Bluetooth: Bluetooth uses significant battery power, so disabling it when not in use can help conserve battery life. You can turn off Bluetooth by clicking on the Bluetooth icon in the menu bar and selecting Turn Bluetooth Off.
By making these adjustments, you can extend the life of your MacBook’s battery and prevent it from draining faster than normal due to incorrect settings.
Your MacBook Pro Doesn’t Charge to Capacity Or Doesn’t Charge At All
There are several reasons why this might be happening, including a faulty charging cable, a malfunctioning wall power adapter, a dirty charging port, or a problem with the MacBook battery itself. Issues related to MacBook Pro battery charging are discussed below.
Issue 3: Poor Storage Methods
Possible Cause: Storing your MacBook Pro in extremely hot or cold temperatures can damage the battery, making it unable to hold a charge.
Additionally, if you leave your MacBook Pro unused for long periods with a fully depleted battery, it may not be able to hold a charge when you try to charge it again.
How To Fix:
It is easy to fix. You should take care of following precautions to resolve this issue.
- Charge or discharge the MacBook battery to around 50% before storing it for over a few days.
- Store your MacBook Pro in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and heat sources.
- Make sure to leave your MacBook Pro plugged in all the time, as this can lead to overcharging and damage to the battery.
- Use the battery at least once a month to keep it active and prevent it from going into a deep discharge state.
- If you last used your MacBook Pro a long time ago, charge the MacBook battery fully before using it again.
Issue 4: Wall Adapter Is Malfunctioning
Possible Cause: Sometimes, the MacBook Pro battery problems with your MacBook Pro Battery not charging may not be with your computer, but with the wall adapter you’re using. If the wall adapter is damaged or dirty, it won’t be able to charge your MacBook Pro properly.
You may notice the charger’s LED not turning on, sparks when plugging it in, or the computer only charging intermittently. In such cases, the charger is likely the problem.
How To Fix:
There are several quick methods to fix it. Some of them are:
- Check the Cable: Make sure the cable is not damaged, frayed, or twisted. If it is, replace it with a new one.
- Check the Adapter: Look for any damage, cracks, or signs of wear and tear. If you see any, replace the power adapter with a new one.
- Clean the Charging Port: Use a soft-bristled brush or a dry cotton swab to remove any dust or debris from the charging port.
- Reset the System Management Controller (SMC): Shut down your MacBook, connect it to the power adapter, and hold down Shift+Control+Option and the power button simultaneously for about 10 seconds. Release all keys and turn on your MacBook.
- Try a Different Outlet: Sometimes, the problem may not be with the power adapter but the one you’re using. Try a different outlet to see if that resolves the issue.
If none of these steps work, it may be time to take your MacBook to a professional to repair or replace the charging port or other hardware components.
Issue 5: The Battery Is In Poor Condition (Showing “Replace Soon” Or “Replace Now”)
Possible Cause: When the battery is in poor condition and shows Replace Soon or Replace Now messages, it indicates that the Macbook battery has reached the end of its lifespan and can no longer hold a charge. As a result, the battery may not be able to power the MacBook or charge properly, leading to issues with charging.
A damaged or swollen battery may cause physical damage to the internal components of the MacBook, leading to further issues with charging or even rendering the device unusable.
How To Fix:
It may not be able to charge or hold a charge effectively. Here are some steps you can take to resolve this issue:
- Check Your Battery Status: Click on the Apple logo in the top left corner of your screen, select About This Mac, and then click on System Report. Under Hardware, select Power, and check your battery’s condition. If it says Replace Soon or Replace Now, it’s time to replace your battery.
- Replace The Battery: If your MacBook Pro is still under warranty, you can take it to an Apple Store or authorized service provider to replace it. If it’s out of warranty, you can purchase a new battery online and replace it yourself by following the instructions provided by Apple.
- Use Coconut Battery: Coconut Battery is a free app that provides detailed information about your MacBook Pro’s battery health management. It can tell you how many charge cycles your battery has been through, the current capacity of your battery, and whether it needs to be replaced soon. If your battery health is poor, it’s time to replace it.
- Calibrate Your Battery: If your MacBook Pro’s battery is not holding a charge effectively, you can try calibrating it. To do this, fully charge your MacBook Pro, disconnect the power adapter, and use it until the battery is completely drained. Next, leave your MacBook Pro unplugged for a few hours and then fully charge it again. This process can recalibrate your battery and improve its performance.
Issue 6: The Battery Doesn’t Charge To 100%
Possible Cause: If it stops charging between 93% and 98%, this is normal and not a problem. It’s a feature that prevents brief charging cycles from increasing wear on the battery. But you might have an actual issue if it isn’t reaching 90%.
How To Fix:
Before attempting a more complex solution:
- Charge your Mac 100% with the power adapter and use it for two hours with the charger connected.
- Unplug it and let your MacBook Pro battery drain to 0%, and the laptop shuts down.
- Wait at least 5 hours and power on your MacBook.
The battery is now calibrated. If calibration doesn’t work, consider resetting the MacBook SMC (System Management Controller), which should fix the MacBook Pro charging symbol and battery charging. These steps will get you there:
- Power off your Mac.
- Hold SHIFT+CONTROL+OPTION on the left side of the keyboard, then press the power button simultaneously for 10 seconds.
- Release all keys.
- Press power once and boot your Mac up.
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I extend the battery life of my MacBook Pro?
To extend the battery life of your MacBook Pro, you can try the following tips:
1. Reduce screen brightness
2. Turn off keyboard backlighting
3. Close any unused applications
4. Disconnect peripherals that are not in use
5. Turn off Wi-Fi or Bluetooth if not needed
6. Use Safari instead of Chrome for web browsing
What is a cycle count, and how does it affect my MacBook Pro’s battery?
A cycle count is the number of times your MacBook Pro’s battery has been fully charged and discharged. Each MacBook Pro model has a specific number of cycles that the battery can handle before it starts to degrade. As the battery’s cycle count increases, its capacity decreases, which means that it will hold less charge over time.
Can I replace the battery on my MacBook Pro?
Yes, you can replace the battery on your MacBook Pro. However, Apple recommends that you take your MacBook Pro to an authorized service provider to have the battery replaced. Attempting to replace the battery yourself can be dangerous and may damage your computer.
How long should the battery on my MacBook Pro last?
The battery life of your MacBook Pro depends on various factors, including its model, age, usage, and settings. Generally, a fully charged MacBook Pro battery should last between 5-10 hours, depending on the model.
Why is my MacBook Pro battery draining so quickly?
There could be several reasons why your MacBook Pro battery is draining quickly, including:
1. Running too many applications at once
2. Brightness settings are too high
3.Keyboard backlighting is turned on
4. Wi-Fi or Bluetooth is turned on
5. Battery health is degraded
6. Software issues or bugs
Final Words
Dealing with battery issues on your MacBook Pro can be frustrating. It can throw a wrench in your productivity, leave you in constant uncertainty, and sometimes even the solutions seem out of reach. While this guide covers many common reasons for battery depletion, your issue may not be listed here.
In such cases, I recommend seeking help from reputable and active Apple forums like the Apple Support Community or MacRumors Forums. And if all else fails, feel free to contact Apple’s support lines for assistance.
About Eric
Bruce Cichowlas
In my case, it said the TuneIn app was causing coreaudiod to prevent sleep. Check that it is off. “pmset -g” can tell a lot! Also, add the “PreventingSleep” column to Activity Monitor.
Anna
Just wanted to write a thank note here cause I think it’s because of my bluetooth was on. I’ll see now how this will work. Should be better.
Simon
My laptop is macbook pro 15 mid2015. After replaced the battery from after market, sometimes it couldn’t start up the laptop, it’s showing low battery on the screen, even though the battery is still got 35% power battery . Then It needs to plug in power AC adapter, it only able to start up the laptop.
Any idea or solution about this issue?
Gianni Zanini
My original Apple battery on my mid-2015 Macbook Pro showed less than 800 cycles and “normal” status but was not lasting more than 2.5 hours. So I replaced it with an aftermarket one. Laptop came back to life and charges all the way to 100%. Cycles now are only 25 and status shows as “normal”. But new battery still drains as fast as before…I do not get more than 2.5 hrs! Checked all settings and dimmed everything that I could, but battery performance remains as lousy as before. So, if the root of the problem is neither the battery or the settings, what else is causing this lousy battery performance? Nothing in this article helps understand this problem of mine, and of many others commenting above!
Reda
Hi, I’ve been looking for a solution for a while, My battery reading is not accurate and does not show the actual speed at witch it is charging, I have to restart it every time to get an accurate reading, already rest sec and drained and charged the MacBook completetly (though not consecutively) any tips would be great, thanks in advance
I have a m1 MacBook Air btw
anonymous
my mac battery keeps degrading it’s at 80% after 1 year of use. I suspect it’s an intel problem cause the new m1 macs seem to have a better outcome when it comes to MacBook batteries.
I have coconut battery installed. Whenever I see it degrade, I get so frustrated. I leave the battery plugged in overnight and I rarely use it on battery. IDK but I need a new battery this is just horrible.
Oscar
I have a MacBook Pro 13”. It doesn’t go any far than the apple logo and shuts down. It does not work while plugged in either. Can the battery cause that the Mac doesn’t power up properly?
Sahwa
Actually my mac is not opening without charging i dont know what was the issue was
Martins
when my mackbook charger it shows charging and within 5mins it will show 100%. immediately I remove my charger it goes off. I don’t know what to do
yoonus
I bought Mac Pro 2020, i7 32gb 2tb. when I start using I was getting only3.5. hrs exact time all the days . I was frustrated and opened case apple multiple tickets but they not ready to replace or do repair, finally I went apple support walking twice but they did only wife and re install and did diagnostic and they said we can’t find any issue with your system.
after wiping I’m getting 5 to 6 hr. on browsing. but I don’t believe that will be the exact backup I expect at least 8 to 9 hrs on normal usage.
also it start heating on back side. Im still un happy and I will not recommend to by i7 32 gb MacBook Pro 2020 .
Albert Labrador
I recently replaced the battery in my MacBook Pro retina 15in mid 2012. Now it won’t switch on! It appears to be charging because the light on the mag connector shines pink, then the start up chime will ring repeatedly for a few moments, then stop, then the white Apple logo will appear with the horizontal bar moving steadily to the right, while the lap top makes a ssh-ing sound. Then once the bar reaches the right hand side nothing happens … oh and the caps lock light comes on.
I wonder if (a) I have the new battery connected wrongly (is that even possible) or (b) I still have residual alcohol used to debunk the adhesive or some of the old gunk inside the machine causing a shortage?
Deepak
I have an macbook pro mid 2017 model. Its working fine and all of sudden baterry not charged and stuck at 0%. I checked cycle count and its showing 252.
Please help me fix this problem
Guy
I tried all this but my battery still goes from 100 to 0 in less than an hour. What on earth should I do?
Emmanuel
I am also having similar issue, any fix to this please?
Hans op 't Landt
Via a Mac dealer the battery of my MacBook Pro was replaced. Within one week the original max capacity went down to 94%. Is this normal?
CDS
Hi
Many thanks for the very useful tips on battery issues, especially that your advice is free. I have taken the advice, reduced lighting, adjusted battery sleep modes so this should make a difference.
Stay safe
CDS
Madhu
I have a MBP mid 2012 i5 2.5GHz A1278 model. I see lot of display issues, lines, spots, sometimes collage like random pixel shifting, some times the menu bar goes missing or renders partially. When I disconnect battery and work with direct power, I don’t see any of these issues. I replaced the battery, but still has the same issue when the battery is connected.
Misty
I have a MacBook Pro purchased Feb 2015, MGXC2LL/A 15.4-Inch Laptop with Retina Display.
As soon as battery said “Replace Now” It would no longer keep a charge without warning. I instantly started having issues with the letter “ż” showing up in addition to all letters typed on the bottom row. To show an example I typed all the letters on bottom row: (xzczvzbznzmz,z.z/) Or (typinzg a senztenzcze that uses letters inz the bzottomz row.z) I also am unable to type the letter “Z” key. Nothing happens when I hit it. I have to type X C V B N or M in order for Z to show up and backspace out the letters I don’t want.
Apple states the battery life of this model is 1000 cycles. It only made it to a Cycle Count: 376.
shawn
Hi thanks for the info – that nice screwdriver set where did you buy that?
KissMyMac
Thank you for the perfect article! I know how to maintain my macbook’s battery well in the future to keep it running long!
Donovan Moloney
Hi, I have a mid 2011 MAcbook Air 13″. The battery shows normal however it drains within 2 hours. There are no major apps running that could drain the battery this fast. I suspect the screen is the culprit. How can I confirm it?
Goshi
I just found a Macbook Pro 2010 from garbage box outside of my home, it was installed with 128SSD / 4GB / Core2Duo it started just as normal but it was not charging at all,
After resetting SMC settings it is working as normal
Nitish Kulkarni
I bought a macbook pro 2019 (256 GB| 8GB| 1.4ghz with a touch bar n touch id).
It shuts down when the battery is around 40%. And as I plug in the charger as there is no other way to start it, I can the battery charging at around 40-45%, meaning its not completely draining out as well.
I tried installing latest macOS update, but it didn’t resolve the issue.
Ashwin
Hello,
I have a Mac-book Pro (late-2011). I’ve been recently running into a problem in that it suddenly shuts down while charging and also the battery level completely drains to zero no what percentage it was at. Also for information, the connector pins on the laptop are worn out, so I usually have to connect my MagSafe plug a bit tilted so that it makes a proper connection. The cycle count is around 830 and the health condition is displayed normally.
I’m afraid that if there will be some short circuit in the hardware and losing my laptop. Could you recommend me something?
BR
anomanous
I use a macbook pro 13 inch, i’ve had it for 5 years and still using it. I already had a hardrive changed about a year ago and it’s been working fine since. But now, when it charges to 100, i would disconnect the charger, and it would drop to 90%
I put it back in and charge it 100, take it off, and it automatically drops to 90. I’ve tried letting it drop to 85 and then charge it back to full, but even then when i take it out and plug it back in, it drops from a range of 2% – 8%
i will remind you that it’s an old laptop, so it’s not in the best condition. theres already scrapes and bits of metal dented in. Is there a way to fix it or do i need a new battery?
anilkumarkv
condition replace soon showing to mac book pro battery
can it do something?
Tatiana
This article is one of the most comprehensive ones I was able to find, still my case is somehow doesnt fit any description..
Mine is Macbook Air, but most info out there is on pros.. Im not sure if its supposed to be significantly different..
I checked system information and there’s no info on the battery displayed. also it says in the system preferences that current buttery charge is 0 per cent and it wont show up the battery icon in the menu bar. Coolers keep running even when I close the laptop so I have no idea what to do or whats happening – google wont show similar situations..
Is there any ideas on what it could be?
I thought maybe battery is damaged but then it doesnt show info ab it neither it says no battery is connected. Im kinda lost on what to do
Someone
i had the same thing happening just like tatiana, let it shutdown on itself when its open till it cannot open even if u hold the power button, and that way my mac got fixed.
im typing from the same mac 🙂
Jay
Hello,
I have a 2017 model MBA and I have only had it for one year. About 4 months ago that is is losing significant amounts of battery while sleeping. I have contacted apple and they say that they think it is a software problem. I have even tried factory resetting my Mac but it didn’t seem to help. Do you think that it might be the battery itself that is the problem?
Thanks
Andrew Clayton Kaufman
My father has an early 2015 MacBook Pro retina. Recently, he began noticing the battery not getting the charge it used to, which is understandable, since it is coming up on 4 years old as of 05FEB19. We researched things fairly well, and I offered to replace the battery. I knew it would be a bit difficult for most, so I looked up the battery replacement procedures on the ifixit website. I saw the steps, read through them carefully, made the purchase of the appropriate replacement battery and tools, and went about using the ifixit guide to replacing the battery, including the battery reset method as described in the literature that was received along with the battery. This was about 2-3 weeks ago. As of today, the battery cannot hold more than 3 hours of usage during a 100% charge. It works for less time than an iPhone streaming video at full volume through the iPhone’s speakers. On a brand new battery. This doesn’t seem right at all. Any thoughts?
DERRIS
I’m having the exact same issue on my 2012 Macbook Pro Retina
Dave
Check if fan is always running and cpu is hot. Check programs running in background such as Google … and using large amount of cpu power or other hhd or memory.
disable that program.
Meeran Fazil
Thank you very much. turns out most of my problems were caused by the screen brightness and my bluetooth being on. Very helpful article!
Melissa
Thank you very much. This article was extremely helpful.
Nicolas Pinzon
I have a 13 inch MacBook pro that otherwise functions really well. I installed an 8GB SSD card in it 2 years ago and I have replaced the battery twice but I keep running into the same issue. The battery status is “normal” but the battery drains from 100% to 0 in about an hour with only one simple program running (word or firefox or anything simple like that) and internet and Bluetooth disconnected. I’ve also turned off the keyboard light to try to get more battery life but it’s never more than one hour. I’ve bought two very well reviewed batteries and they just drain super fast. Am I doing something wrong?
I’m on version 10.11.12 with a 2.3 GHz Intel Core i5 processor
Michael
I found the wake on network was killing my battery in about an hour.
By disabling it I get all day battery life again.
$ pmset -g
System-wide power settings:
Currently in use:
standbydelaylow 4200
standby 0
halfdim 1
sms 1
hibernatefile /var/vm/sleepimage
disksleep 180
standbydelayhigh 4200
sleep 10
autopoweroffdelay 14400
hibernatemode 0
autopoweroff 1
ttyskeepawake 1
displaysleep 2
highstandbythreshold 50
acwake 0
lidwake 1
pmset -a hibernatemode 0
Michael
To disable wake on network
pmset -u womp 0
Dave
Check if fan is always running and cpu is hot. Check programs running in background such as Google … and using large amount of cpu power or other hhd or memory.
disable that program.
Ken Stearns
2014 15 inch Macbook Pro.
My cursor would simply start moving and clicking randomly starting January of 2018. The episodes of this became more frequent. “SCM and NVRAM” did not fix the problem. Running in “safe mode” achieved no good result. Nothing showed amiss when I ran Apple’s onboard diagnostic.
My power was okay. My Macbook Pro, a 2014 15 inch model, quad I7s, spends most of its days plugged into a UPS/inverter, so it never gets close to draining its battery. The cause of my random cursor movement was my battery which was swollen, warped out of shape, and putting pressure on my trackpad. New battery seems to have solved the problem. This cost me $300.00 to replace where I am, India.
My Macbook does get subjected to low temperatures of around 0 centigrade up to 38-40 centigrade. It operated for 3.5 years, heavy usage, in this environment before the symptoms showed. I consider this battery failure to be a sub-standard design flaw and it will be a factor in choosing my next laptop.
Patty O'Brien
This was exactly what I was looking for! Thanks a lot!
Lorena
You are welcome!