I'm using my laptop like a desktop, keeping it plugged in all the time, so I decided to take out the battery and store it in a cabinet to avoid any issues like swelling or overheating. The battery is fully charged now, but I probably won't touch it for the next three years. I'm not too worried about it dying, but I want to know if there are any safety concerns like chemical leaks or swelling that could occur while it's stored.
5 Answers
I wouldn’t recommend storing it fully charged. Over time, the battery might expand and could even explode. If possible, drain it down to about 60% before putting it away for the long haul. That level is usually the sweet spot to keep it safe and sound.
Honestly, if you're going to store it, maybe think about selling it and pulling your data drive if that's a concern. I had a bunch of laptops that sat for years and a lot experienced battery swelling, even when stored well. Best to stay cautious!
It's better not to store the battery at 100% charge. Ideally, around 50% is good for its longevity. This way, you're less likely to run into swelling or leaking issues. Just a heads up!
Batteries are at their most risky while charging, but if you’ve got a safe spot like a garage floor, that could work. Just be sure it’s not in a spot that gets too hot!
Leaving the battery in isn't a bad idea since it acts like a backup power supply. I have a media laptop that I've used steadily for over six years and the original battery is still hanging in there. It won't hold a full charge anymore, but there's no swelling, and it still works fine.
For sure! Following the 80/20 rule can really help too. Keeping it a bit under fully charged helps.