There’s nothing more frustrating than plugging in your iPad for a quick charge, only to realize it’s barely gaining any power. If you’ve ever wondered, “Why is my iPad charging slowly?” you’re not alone. Slow charging can be caused by a variety of factors, and understanding what’s going on can help you get back to a faster charge.
Welcome to Tricked Out Accessories and Phone Repair, your premier local retailer for all your phone accessory and repair needs. We specialize in cases, chargers, battery banks, and screen protectors, ensuring your phone’s safety and longevity. But today, we’re diving deep into a common iPad issue: slow charging.
Let’s dive into some of the common reasons behind slow iPad charging and how you can fix them.
Table of Contents
Common Reasons for Slow iPad Charging
Faulty Charging Cable or Adapter
One of the first culprits when it comes to slow charging is a faulty charging cable or adapter. Over time, wear and tear can degrade the cable, causing it to lose efficiency. If your charging cable looks frayed, bent, or damaged, it could be slowing down your iPad’s charge.
Using an Underpowered Adapter
Not all adapters are created equal. If you’re using a low-wattage adapter, especially one that wasn’t designed for the iPad, you’re likely to experience slow charging. iPads typically require a higher wattage adapter compared to iPhones or smaller devices.
Background Apps Draining Power
While charging your iPad, background apps can continue running, draining your battery and making it seem like your device is charging slower than it should. Apps like social media, streaming, or navigation can eat up power even when you think your iPad is resting.
Charging Through a Computer or Low Power Source
Many people plug their iPads into their computers for charging, but most computers don’t provide the power necessary to charge an iPad efficiently. Similarly, charging from a USB port in your car or on an airplane can be underpowered and lead to slow charging.
Software Updates and Bugs
iPads run on iOS, and sometimes software bugs or outdated systems can cause slow charging. If you haven’t updated your iPad in a while, it could be the root cause of the problem.
Battery Health Deterioration
Like all batteries, your iPad’s battery will naturally degrade over time. If your iPad has been around for a few years, its ability to hold a charge diminishes, and this can make it seem like it’s charging more slowly than it used to.
How to Fix Slow iPad Charging
Inspecting and Replacing Charging Cables
The first step is to check the condition of your charging cable and adapter. Look for any visible damage or wear. If your cable is damaged, it’s time to replace it. Always opt for official or certified third-party cables to ensure you get optimal performance.
Using a Powerful Adapter
Make sure you’re using the correct adapter for your iPad. A standard 12W or higher adapter is recommended for most models. Using an underpowered adapter will always result in slower charging.
Closing Background Apps
Before plugging in your iPad, take a moment to close all background apps. You can do this by swiping up from the bottom of the screen and swiping away any open apps. This will ensure that your iPad’s resources are focused on charging rather than running apps.
Charge Using a Wall Outlet
Whenever possible, charge your iPad using a direct wall outlet rather than a computer or low-power source. Wall outlets provide consistent power, which results in faster charging times.
Software Updates and Optimization
Ensure your iPad’s software is up to date. Regular updates from Apple often include battery optimizations and fixes for bugs that could be slowing down your device’s charging speed.
Go to Settings > General > Software Update to check if any updates are available.
Related post: Why is my phone hot?
Monitor Battery Health and Usage
Keep an eye on your battery health.
You can go to Settings > Battery to see which apps are consuming the most power.
If your iPad is old, it might be time to consider a battery replacement or even upgrading to a new device.
How to Avoid Slow Charging in the Future
Use Certified Accessories
Always use certified cables and adapters to charge your iPad. Third-party accessories can often be less reliable and may not provide the optimal charging speed.
Charge Regularly Before Battery Drops Low
Don’t wait until your battery is critically low to charge your iPad. Keeping your battery level between 20% and 80% can prolong battery life and ensure faster charging.
Avoid Charging in Extreme Temperatures
Charging your iPad in extreme heat or cold can negatively affect its performance. Always try to charge your device in a cool, dry place for the best results.
Turn Off Apps During Charging
For the fastest charging results, consider turning off your iPad or putting it in Airplane Mode while charging. This minimizes any background activity and allows your device to charge more quickly.
When to Seek Professional Help
Recognizing Serious Battery Issues
If you’ve tried all of the above tips and your iPad is still charging slowly, it might be time to seek professional help. A failing battery or internal hardware issue could be the cause, and a certified technician can provide you with the right fix.
Physical Damage to Charging Ports or iPad
Inspect your iPad’s charging port. Dust, dirt, or damage can prevent the charger from making a proper connection. If you notice any issues or feel that the port is loose, it’s best to have a professional take a look.
Slow iPad charging can be a hassle, but by following the tips above, you can troubleshoot and resolve most issues on your own. Whether it’s replacing a damaged cable or using the right adapter, these small changes can significantly improve your iPad’s charging speed. However, if the problem persists, it’s always a good idea to consult a professional.
FAQs
Why does my iPad charge faster with one charger than another?
This is likely due to differences in wattage. Higher-wattage chargers provide more power, resulting in faster charging.
Can background apps really slow down charging?
Yes, apps running in the background can use up power while your iPad is charging, making it seem like it’s charging slower.
Does leaving my iPad plugged in damage the battery?
Leaving your iPad plugged in for extended periods won’t damage the battery, but it’s best to keep the battery level between 20% and 80% for longevity.
How can I tell if my iPad’s charging port is damaged?
Look for signs like a loose connection, debris in the port, or the need to wiggle the cable for a proper charge. If you suspect damage, seek professional help.
Is wireless charging slower than wired charging?
In most cases, yes. Wired charging typically provides more power and is faster than wireless charging.
When to Seek Professional Help
If you’ve tried the above solutions and your iPad is still charging slowly, it might be time to consult a professional. A technician can diagnose any underlying hardware issues or battery problems.
Having trouble with your iPad? Breathe easy! Getting a repair quote for your Apple device is simple. Head over to our website,
Tricked Out Accessories, where you’ll find a comprehensive list of repair prices for various iPad models and common issues. This lets you estimate the cost upfront and make an informed decision. If your repair requires further diagnosis, don’t hesitate to contact our friendly technicians. We’re happy to take a closer look and provide a personalized quote at no extra charge! We have a location near you!
Do you have any other questions about iPad charging or need assistance with other phone accessories? Feel free to ask!
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