These Are the Reasons Why Your iPad Won’t Charge

Apple products are renowned for their functionality. This is one of the many reasons why their product reveals get so much attention each year.

Unfortunately, these products aren’t immune to issues. This is even true for iPads, which often only see a casual level of use.

If you find that your iPad won’t charge, there’s a handful of potential causes. Not sure where to start? Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered.

Let’s take a look at everything you need to know.

Outdated Software

In general, many people assume that the reason behind their device not charging has to do with damage to its hardware. While this is true in many cases, it’s not uncommon for iPads in mint condition to encounter this charging issue.

If you haven’t updated your iPad in a significant period of time, the older software that you’re running could interfere with the device’s capability to charge properly. Similarly, the same can be said about devices that have damaged or corrupted software.

For example, attempting to modify your iPad’s functionality by installing third-party firmware (a form of permanent software) could negatively impact this capability.

As you may expect, an iPad that won’t charge properly as borderline useless. So, it’s crucial to prevent user-related software issues if you can avoid them.

Damaged Charging Port

Physical impact on the device’s charging port will lead to a similar fate. This situation is far more straightforward, though, and often occurs immediately after an iPad is dropped, stepped on, etc.

It could even occur while an iPad that’s stored in a bag is being transported.

Damage doesn’t always stem from physical trauma, though. The accumulation of dust, debris, etc. within the charging port could easily prevent the device from functioning properly.

In general, resolving this issue only requires the user to clean out the port if there are visible contaminants. A blast of compressed air often does the trick.

For physical damage, though, you’ll often need to contact a professional. While it’s not impossible to make repairs on your own, doing so will void any warranty that you have on your device.

Damaged Charging Cable

Even if a cable doesn’t have signs of physical damage, there may still be an issue with it. Corrosion, water damage, etc. can all prevent the charger from functioning as it should, leaving you with a device that’s unable to charge.

Although damaged electronics are never a good thing, discovering that the cable is the culprit is one of the better scenarios. This means that you’ll only need to replace the cable instead of making repairs to the iPad itself.

To avoid damage related to overheating, make sure that the charging cable has plenty of ventilation while it’s in use. Using an iPad underneath blankets, for example, is a common cause for cable damage.

Additionally, store the cable properly when you’re not using it. Avoid rolling it up and tossing it in a bag, bending it, etc. 

Improper Adapter

Some users have official Apple cables but use third-party adapters. In general, these adapters will provide the same functionality, albeit in a less efficient manner. 

But, using an unofficial (or improper) adapter can easily lead to charging issues.

Like cable issues, having a problem with your adapter is essentially a minor inconvenience since you won’t need to worry about fixing your iPad itself. However, it’s not ideal, especially for users who need their iPad for work-related projects.

You can check to see if your adapter is to blame for your charging issues by using your cable to charge other devices. If the cable works on the other device, then it’s either the iPad or the adapter.

If you have a second cable, you can also use it with the same adapter. If neither cable works, the adapter may also be at fault. Of course, those who have other adapters can simply use these to charge their iPad to see what kind of results they get.

You should also keep in mind that the power outlet itself may be the root of the issue. So, try using different outlets in your home or office to see if you’re able to charge your device.

How to Fix 

As previously mentioned, it’s possible to make repairs on your own. This would involve purchasing the parts and tools while also educating yourself about how to complete the repair.

As you may expect, though, an amateur can easily make the situation far worse for themselves. Apple product components are typically very sensitive, and it’s not uncommon for even a simple repair to result in damage if you’re not careful.

Instead, consider contacting a professional who specializes in the repair of Apple products. Many people avoid going through Apple itself due to an expired warranty, extensive wait times, etc.

In some cases, Apple may not even be willing to make the appropriate repair.

So, keep this option in mind when looking to resolve your iPad’s charging issue. The sooner it’s fixed, the sooner you can get back to enjoying the device in its full functionality.

iPad Won’t Charge? Handling It Can Seem Difficult

But it doesn’t have to be.

With the above information in mind about what to do if your iPad won’t charge, you’ll be well on your way to handling the situation as efficiently as possible.

Want to learn more about how we can help? Feel free to get in touch with us today to see what we can do.