Why Samsung Galaxy Battery Swells and How to Prevent It

Samsung Galaxy battery swelling can occur due to factors such as overcharging, exposure to extreme temperatures, and natural aging of the battery. This guide explains common causes of battery swelling and provides step-by-step methods to help prevent and address the issue.

1. Use the Original Charger and Cable

Using genuine charging accessories ensures proper voltage and current delivery, reducing undue stress on the battery.

Verify Authenticity: Check that your charger and cable are original Samsung products or certified by Samsung.
Inspect for Damage: Examine both the charger and cable for any signs of wear, fraying, or bent connectors.
Replace if Necessary: Replace any damaged or non-certified accessories with genuine parts to maintain safe charging standards.
Test Charging Performance: Monitor your phone during charging to ensure it is operating within normal temperature ranges.

2. Avoid Overcharging and Monitor Charging Habits

Overcharging and prolonged connection to power can increase battery stress and lead to swelling.

Charge Responsibly: Unplug your device once it reaches 100% instead of leaving it continuously connected to the charger.
Use Timers or Smart Plugs: Consider using a timer or smart plug that automatically stops charging after a set period.
Enable Battery Management Settings: Check your device’s settings for any built-in features that prevent overcharging or reduce charging speed once full capacity is reached.
Monitor Charging Cycles: Regularly review your charging habits and try to maintain moderate charging cycles to prolong battery life.

3. Prevent Exposure to Extreme Temperatures

High temperatures can accelerate battery degradation and swelling, so maintaining a moderate environment is essential.

Avoid Direct Sunlight: Do not expose your phone to direct sunlight, especially while charging.
Use in Temperature-Controlled Environments: Keep your device in areas with moderate temperatures and good airflow.
Remove Case During Charging: Consider removing bulky cases during charging to help dissipate heat more efficiently.
Monitor Ambient Conditions: Check that the environment is neither too hot nor too cold during heavy usage or charging periods.

4. Enable Battery Optimization Features

Activating battery optimization settings in your device can help manage power consumption and reduce battery stress.

Update Software: Ensure your Samsung Galaxy is running the latest firmware for improved battery management.
Activate Power Saving Modes: Navigate to the battery settings and enable power saving or adaptive battery features.
Adjust Performance Settings: Lower screen brightness and reduce background app activity to lessen the load on the battery.
Monitor Battery Usage: Regularly review battery usage statistics to identify and address apps or processes that may be draining power excessively.

5. Monitor Battery Health Regularly

Keeping an eye on your battery’s health can help detect early signs of degradation before swelling occurs.

Access Diagnostic Tools: Use Samsung’s built-in diagnostic tools or trusted third-party apps to check battery health.
Review Battery Usage Reports: Regularly review reports and notifications that indicate abnormal battery behavior.
Schedule Professional Evaluations: If you notice significant degradation, consider having the battery professionally assessed.
Document Changes: Track any fluctuations in battery performance to catch issues early and adjust usage habits accordingly.

6. Replace an Aging or Swollen Battery

If the battery is already swollen or significantly degraded, replacing it is the safest way to restore device performance and safety.

Stop Using the Device: If you observe battery swelling, stop using the device to avoid potential hazards.
Contact Samsung Support: Reach out to Samsung customer service to inquire about battery replacement options under warranty or service programs.
Visit an Authorized Service Center: Schedule an appointment at an authorized repair center to have the battery replaced safely.
Follow Replacement Guidelines: Ensure that the replacement battery is genuine and installed by qualified technicians to maintain safety and performance.

7. Keep Software and Firmware Updated

Regular software updates can include optimizations and fixes that improve battery performance and prevent overheating.

Check for Updates: Periodically go to your device’s settings and select “Software Update” to check for available updates.
Download and Install: Follow the on-screen instructions to download and install any available firmware or system updates.
Restart the Device: Once updated, restart your phone to apply the new settings.
Monitor Battery Performance: Observe any changes in battery behavior post-update to ensure that the new software is effectively managing power usage.