How To Fix Bent Iphone Charger? Quick Answer

Frayed charging cables can be dangerous to use and expensive to replace. Whether you’re using a Lightning cable with an iPhone or a USB-C cable with an Android phone, here’s how to protect them from breakage.

care of your cables

The best way to prevent your cords from breaking is to take proper care of them. In particular, always hold the cable by the connector when removing it from a device or USB port. Pulling out a cable suddenly without doing so will put pressure on the weakest part of the construction, where the cable meets the connector.

When transporting, loop your cables and use a strap or clip to hold them together if possible. Make sure you loop your cable properly by manipulating it with your hands. The cable will naturally coil up in a certain way, which you should always try to emulate. Some cables, like the Anker Powerline+ below, come with a Velcro strap for easy portability and storage. The “Roadie Wrap” is the best way to wrap your charging cables.

Avoid excessive bending of cables or over-tightening. Bending of the cable, especially at the point where the cable connects to the plug, is the leading cause of damage over time. If you can avoid using your device while it’s charging, avoid carrying the cable unnecessarily.

You may need to change your behavior and break old habits, but your cables will thank you. When you instinctively reach for your phone before getting up in the morning, make sure to unplug the cable first. Lying there in bed and flexing the cable back and forth as you roll over is not ideal. If you’re used to tossing your charging cords in a bag for a weekend trip, take a second to wrap them up properly.

RELATED ARTICLE: How to Properly Wrap Charging Cables to Avoid Damaging Them

Use cable protection

Cable protectors work by protecting the point where the cable meets the plastic or metal connector. They should be made of a flexible material, such as rubber, to allow the cable to flex slightly when pressure is applied. If the cable protector does not bend, it merely pushes the cable’s weak point further up.

You can buy a pack of cable protectors online for a few dollars. The TUDIA KLIP is one of the best solutions for Apple Lightning, iPod, MagSafe and Apple Watch chargers. For a more affordable product that is compatible with almost any USB charger, check out the Jetec multicolored spiral wraps or the Nite Ize CordCollar.

If you’re feeling smart, you can add springs to your collars to add some tension and keep the cord from bending to a critical point. For a more resilient homemade solution, see the Paracord Cord Reinforcement Tutorial on Instructables.

Almost anything that can prevent excessive bending of your cable will help protect it, whether it’s a homemade sleeve or a strip of electrical tape.

Avoid accidents with magnetic adapters

While cables naturally wear out over time, cable damage is exacerbated by sudden movement. We’ve all accidentally grabbed a charging cable and tossed anything that was charging across the room. In this case, the cable usually stays in place.

Magnetic adapters take the approach used in Apple’s (now defunct) MagSafe power cords and apply it to just about any device you own. First, plug a small magnetic adapter into your device’s charging port. This adapter then connects magnetically to a charging cable when needed.

Cables will no longer get bent if you accidentally catch your smartphone as a small amount of force is all it takes to safely release the cable. You can buy as many adapters as you want and charge them all with the same cable. The adapter protrudes slightly from the bottom of your device for easy removal, and can even help keep your charging port free of lint and other debris.

Volta is probably the best-known magnetic charging solution. For just under $20, you get a Volta 2.0 charging cable and two adapter “tips” for Lightning, Micro-USB, or USB Type-C ports. There are also many affordable solutions on Amazon and other online shopping services.

play video

Keep in mind that if you want to use the same charging cable for multiple devices, you need to stick to a single system (or brand). You can even add a cable protector to your magnetic charger for an even more durable solution.

Charge (almost any device) wirelessly

Wireless charging is now widespread in modern smartphones. If you have a recent iPhone or Android device, chances are it’s capable of wireless charging. You need to buy a Qi wireless charger to use it, like this Anker 10W Wireless Charging Stand, which even supports fast charging.

This is one way to beat the broken wire blues. Unfortunately, it prevents you from using your device while it’s charging, but that’s a good excuse to turn off and ignore your smartphone for half an hour. Just make sure you buy a wireless charger with a high enough wattage (10W) if you want to take advantage of fast charging. The iPhone X, XS, XR, and 8 all have wireless charging, but they can only charge at a maximum of 7.5W — and even then only with certain Apple-approved wireless chargers.

If your device doesn’t have wireless charging support, you can easily add it with a cheap Qi receiver. These come in the form of thin charging pads that connect to your charging port and stick to the back of your smartphone. Most of them can live under your suitcase, provided your suitcase isn’t metal.

With a Qi receiver installed, your device can be charged by Qi wireless chargers. Its charging speeds may limit you compared to native wireless charging, but at around $10, the upgrade is inexpensive enough to justify it.

Just make sure you buy the right Qi receiver for your device, whether you have a Lightning connector, Micro USB Type-A, or USB-C connector.

RELATED: How to Charge Your iPhone or iPad Faster

Invest in one cable to rule them all

Apple’s official Lightning cable costs $29 for a 2-meter USB-A to Lightning connector. If you replace one a year, you’ll pay almost $90 for three years of iPhone charging. Why not invest more money in a more powerful iPhone charging cable that will not only last a long time but also save you money in the long run?

The Fuse Chicken Titan Plus is a 1.5 meter USB-A to Lightning cable. It conforms to Apple’s Made for iPhone manufacturing standards, which means it includes data capabilities and can be used as both a charger and a sync cable. It is protected by two layers of flexible steel, with sealed aluminum housing at each port. It’s yours for $37.50.

Fuse also produces a range of cables with USB-C and Micro-USB connectivity perfect for Android users. They all come with a lifetime guarantee, but be aware that the all-metal construction results in added weight and reduced flexibility.

Anker’s Powerline+ is another highly rated charging cable that comes in Lightning, Micro-USB, and USB-C variants. The cable features an aramid fiber (Kevlar) core and double nylon braid that Anker claims lasts 10 times longer than other cables.

You can also find cheaper aramid fiber cables (like this Lightning cable and this Micro USB cable) on any shopping sites like Amazon. For best results, combine a durable cable with cable protection and proper cable care.

RELATED: The Most Durable Lightning Cables for Your Charging Needs

Fix your cables early

Frayed cables are dangerous. You are taking risks if you continue to use a charger when it shows signs of wear and tear. Not only could you damage what you charge, but you could also get a nasty shock or start a fire. We recommend discarding damaged cables to be on the safe side.

If you’re satisfied that your cable isn’t too badly damaged or just showing signs of wear without fully exposing the wiring, consider repairing your cables instead. The best way to do this is with electrical shrink tubing.

You can get a kit of heat shrink tubing for less than $10. These tubes fit over your existing wire and then shrink to size when direct heat is applied. Use a heat gun for quick results, but in many cases a hair dryer will work with patience. The tubing reduces flexibility somewhat so these can even act as cable protectors to prevent future fraying.

Remember, if the condition of a cord makes you uncomfortable, cut it off and throw in the trash.

Charge your phone in a dock

Smartphone docks may be outdated, but they serve a purpose. Because the dock doesn’t move, they’re not as susceptible to the same wear and tear as a standard charging cable. You won’t read your device in bed, but you won’t be constantly bending the cable either.

The majority of docks seem to be aimed at Apple users, like the Belkin ChargeSync. This is likely because a larger percentage of Android devices charge wirelessly.

The future is wireless

Cables are delicate, and the fully wireless future isn’t here yet. You don’t have to spend a fortune; Just make sure you buy good quality cables by avoiding the cheap and nasty ones. If you’re an Apple user, make sure you only buy cables that meet Apple’s Made for iPhone (MFi) standards.

If your device charges via USB-C, you should take extra care to choose a safe USB-C cable that won’t damage your devices.

Apple device users love their device, it is their gateway to the internet and how they communicate. These iPhones and iPads are often used for hours a day and require one or more charges to keep the device up and running and available when you need it. The constant slipping in and out of the Lightning connector is often taken for granted because most of the time it just works, but every now and then wear and tear can cause problems.

These issues can cause your phone to stop charging, or your device can have charging issues at times, which can be frustrating. Shaking the cord, dangling the phone, leaving it in a certain place to charge a phone is not a way of life.

If you’ve found this to be an issue with your iPhone or iPad and it only charges at one angle, you’re in luck. We have put together a guide on how to fix it and find the ideal solution to your angle loading problems.

Why your Apple device charges at an angle

The most common reason why this will happen is that the charging port inside your iPhone or Pad is dirty. This can be due to dirt or pocket lint filling the charging port, which ensures that the charger cannot connect properly. The second possible reason is that the charging port in your iPhone may have failed due to wear and tear from regular use, which can cause your iPhone to stop charging at certain angles. The third reason is that either the cable/plug on the charger is broken or the plug/socket on the phone is damaged. The final reason your Apple device may not charge is because you are not using an MFI certified cable, which means it is counterfeit and should not be used with the device.

How to fix an Apple device charging at an angle

Fixing a phone that charges your phone at an angle requires troubleshooting. We’ll help you by working our way through the different fixes so you can find the one that’s right for you through the process of elimination.

1. Clean the charging port

If you’ve ever looked in your pants pockets, you’ll know that there’s a gray fuzz called fluff that’s not exactly suitable for the charging port. Lint can block the connection between your cable and the charging port, and constantly putting your iPhone in your pocket often causes lint to get pushed into the opening.

Your pocket is just one source of clogs, and there’s also a plethora of micro-objects and particles that can get stuck in your port and prevent your device from charging.

Note: Before attempting to clean this, you need to know that you shouldn’t use anything metallic to clean the port. Using something metallic can conduct an electrical charge in your charging port and cause more damage.

The best way to clean your data port is to use an anti-static brush, which you can purchase online or at many electronics stores. With an anti-static brush, you can safely clean the charging port. Make sure you get right inside and clear any debris that might get stuck there. It’s best to do your cleaning in a place with good lighting, or have a light handy so you can see what’s going on in the charging port.

If you don’t have an anti-static brush and are desperate to get your device working again, your best bet is to use a new toothbrush.

Note: If you use a damp brush, you will irreparably damage the data port.

If you don’t have a spare toothbrush handy but feel you can be delicate and careful enough, a toothpick can also do the trick, but be careful not to snap off the tips in your device or use anything that can break off. If you try to clean the port with anything that can get stuck there, you can cause more problems as this will be difficult to remove.

After cleaning the data port, you should now connect your charger and see if that fixes the problem.

If not, continue to step 2 or 3.

2. Replace the cable with an MFI-certified cable

The next solution to fix this problem is to use an MFI certified cable. If you are using the original cable, the lightning connector could wear out from the constant charging and discharging of the device. Using a generic iPhone cable can result in your iPhone not charging properly. MFI certified means that the cable meets Apple standards and this is approved by Apple and only given to specific iPhone cable manufacturers.

So how do you know if the cable is fake?

If you still have the box that the charger came in, you can look for the “Made for iPhone, iPod, iPad” logo, which is an acronym of MFI. You can also tell if your charger is fake by looking at the cable itself. It feels thin and it doesn’t feel rubbery or you can’t feel it sticking to the cable, it’s most likely a fake or generic brand.

The best thing you can do is buy an authentic cable from your local iStore and see if that fixes the problem.

If that doesn’t work, continue to step 3.

3. Replace the loading block

This is probably the solution we want to avoid, as it requires you to take your phone and send it in for repairs. If you know what you’re doing, you can order a charging block online and have it installed yourself at a lower price. If not, you should contact a professional Apple repair service provider.

This is a simple procedure that shouldn’t take too long as it is removing one charging unit and replacing it with another. Since it’s Apple, even a simple repair will cost you a pretty penny. So if your phone is still worth keeping, then by all means get it replaced. If not, maybe it’s time to break up and get a new device.

Forget the angles

Had trouble charging your Apple device, how did you fix it? Did any of these tips work for you? Are there any tips that you think should be added to this list? Please let us know in the comments below and share the magic with us.

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Tags: Apple , iPhone , Gadget Tips

Whether you need to charge a smartphone, laptop, tablet or other device, a broken charger can be frustrating and inconvenient. Without needing an electrician’s license, there are several things you can look at to troubleshoot the problem.

There are a few basic reasons why your charger has stopped working:

While some fixes may require a bit of rewiring, there are many fixes you can try to get your broken charger working again.

Make sure the outlet is turned on. Some European-style outlets have individual switches. American homes may use switched surge protectors, a light switch that controls outlets, or a circuit breaker. You may need to reset a tripped circuit breaker.

Make sure the cables are properly connected. Disconnect all cables in the system, wait a few minutes, and then carefully and properly reconnect the cables. When reinstalling, make sure all connections are tight and accurate.

Look for lights. When working with a broken Mac charger, is the status light on? The same goes for status lights in laptop chargers and portable charger batteries.

Restart the charger. The device controls a large part of its charging behavior, so restarting the device will help with charging detection problems.

Try a different outlet. Sockets are robust, but can fail. To confirm that an outlet is working, see our multimeter tips below.

Check the charger for damage. If you see a bare wire, stripped insulation, or wire shield, this could be the cause of the problem. Also, connect the cable and then wiggle both ends of the cable. If the charger works intermittently when you move the cable, the cable’s copper wiring is damaged. If possible, replace the wire with a new one. Do not attempt to wiggle the cord at either end if there are bare or damaged wires. This could result in an electric shock.

Check the components. Temporarily remove the adapter, power strip, power strip, or surge protector and any additional components so that only the charger is plugged into an outlet that is known to be working. If the outlet works but the charger won’t turn on, the problem isn’t with the outlet. If the charger works when plugged into the wall, the problem is with one of the remote components. Add the other parts one by one until the system fails, but don’t stop there. Try adding the pieces in a different order or place.

Check the fuses. When you open the fuse box, look for an upside down breaker and flip it back. The switches in a column or row typically point in the same direction. If you see a fuse with the handle pointing the other way, it has probably blown. Locate the fuse associated with the outlet you are using and reset it. It snaps back into place with a springy noise. In countries that follow the US model, a fuse box contains fuses that each control a section of a home’s outlets. In other countries, the fuse is built into the wall socket. If you are dealing with electricity in a foreign country, check the details before attempting an electrical repair.

Clean the charging port. If you don’t feel a click when you connect the charging cable, look inside the charger. With both Lightning and USB-C charging ports, users have found that anything from pocket lint to a grain of rice caught in the port can prevent the phone from charging. Remove any debris with plastic tweezers, a cotton swab, or a toothpick. Never insert metal into the charging port. If you insert a piece of metal into the charging port the wrong way round, you can short out the connection and destroy the device.

Try a different cable and power adapter. The main reason for the charger failure is the failure of the charging cable. The cable is stressed the most over time, so it’s usually the first to fail. The charging brick that connects the cable to the wall can also fail, although this is not as common. Try a different USB charging cable and adapter and see if the problem resolves itself. Replace one by one to locate the culprit.

Delete the USB port. If a USB port is physically prevented from making good contact by shielding, cable design, connector furniture, or something else, removing that barrier may fix the problem. The sheet metal casing of a USB connector is easy to bend back into shape if it has deformed over time. On modern USB Micro and USB-C devices, flex the small tab inside the charging port if it’s out of place. To avoid electric shock, make sure the device is turned off before attempting any physical electrical repairs.

Check the age and condition of the battery. While the battery can last longer than the device’s usage time, sometimes the relationship is reversed. Check the condition and age of the battery to determine if it needs to be replaced. If you can remove your laptop’s battery, replace the battery and see if the problem persists. You can also calibrate an older battery.

Check charger compatibility. It’s easy to accidentally end up using a physically compatible cable that doesn’t fully work. Laptop chargers are choosier as you can rarely swap them out without problems. In addition, only the right combination of adapter and cable can use all the functions of the device. If you think you are using an incompatible cable, get one that is compatible with your device.

If you are in love with some of your electronic devices like your iPhone, iPad or Mac, join the club. Apple products are amazing, and anyone who took an amazing photo, asked Siri for directions, found a greasy spoon around the corner, and sent a crazy 20-second video clip to 500 people at once in 10 minutes can do it confirm. Which begs the question: if Apple makes such great products, why do their chargers keep fraying and breaking, testing every consumer’s will to the limit. Despite all the high-end, tech-driven, death-defying electronics coming out of the company, why do their chargers make us break the nearest piece of furniture every day? The answer is complex, but the best explanation is this:

First the problem

The main problem with chargers is that they start to break where the base of the charger meets the cord. We’ve all had the experience of the crack forming at the base and slowly turning into a tantrum while patiently waiting for the iPhone beep and seeing the lightning bolt appear next to the bar. This could be because the cable has no strain relief. Look at any Apple charger and you’ll see a clean transition between the cable and the USB insert. It’s aesthetically pleasing. On most non-Apple products, there is usually a set of “rings” designed to relieve pressure when bending at a sharp angle. It looks like we’re on to something…

compromises

When it comes to chargers, here are a few of the issues, and while neither has been proven, these are the best answers we have.

● Aesthetics – Apple’s design team is rumored to have ultimate control as the company is so committed to its minimalist image. We have to admit that their chargers look MUCH better than ugly third party chargers. They probably sacrificed durability in favor of better looks.

● Convenience – Apple knows that the average consumer is always on the run. The materials they’ve used for their chargers aren’t the strongest, but they’re light enough to be comfortable to carry and easy to roll up and toss in a bag. It’s a fair compromise.

The CordCondom solution

It is precisely this additional pressure and lack of strain relief that we combat with our CordCondom products. We invented a product that solves the problems that Apple so loomingly imposes on its consumers. Within 20 seconds you have a solution that will help extend the life of your chargers and you still have the sleek and beautiful look Apple’s design team wanted.

Apple may have sacrificed durability in favor of better looks and comfort, but you don’t have to with CordCondom.

Answers:

A:

Hi

Since your iPhone won’t charge, it may help to follow the steps below, including checking the charging port for lint or other debris:

If your iPhone, iPad, or iPod touch won’t charge — Apple Support

Also, check if you are using either a genuine Apple cable or an Apple Certified/MFi cable. If you are already doing this, try using another such cable instead. Apple also recommends using genuine Apple USB power adapters.

If necessary, contact Apple Support (email service may be available), make a Genius Bar reservation, or visit an Apple Authorized Service Provider to arrange for your iPhone to be checked and, if serviced It is recommended to establish your available service options and any costs (whether under warranty or via paid service):

iPhone Service Answer Center – Apple Support

Service costs vary by region. For example, in the US, Apple’s current prices for iPhone 6 battery service and out-of-warranty service are $79 and $299, respectively (plus tax and shipping, if applicable).

If you’ve ever stepped on your USB port, you probably thought it was game over. You bent the pins and again the USB connector did not fit properly into the USB slot. Don’t throw away the USB connector if this happens to you as it’s an easy fix. Instead of taking it to your computer store for a hefty fee or buying an expensive new one, just fix it at home. All you need are a few items available at your local hardware store.

Dishwasher. refrigerators. computers. Toaster. exhaust fans. Our homes are full of gadgets and electronics, but most of us don’t consider them a potential fire hazard. The first step to protecting yourself and your family from the dangers of a fire in your home is to make sure you have working smoke alarms throughout your home. Here’s a list of five household items that can potentially overheat or catch fire, with some helpful tips to avoid electrical and electronic failures.

Culprit #1: Cables and power bars

Pinched, punctured, kinked, or otherwise damaged power cords and extension cords don’t look very threatening, but the truth is they pose a serious risk of fire and electric shock.

With these tips you can prevent a cable or socket failure from causing a fire in the house:

Keep power rails and cables away from damp or wet locations.

Marine aquarium electrical systems should be installed by a professional to provide protection from moisture and contamination. Normal power strips and extension cords are not enough. Also, keep weatherproof covers on outdoor outlets closed.

Look behind the couch.

Pushing furniture against an outlet that has a cord plugged into it can damage the plug. Make sure there is enough space behind the couch, bookshelf, bed, or desk to ensure you don’t push against the plug.

Check your kitchen counters.

If a cord is pinched under or behind an appliance, or wrapped around a toaster or kettle, the insulation around the cord can be damaged or melted.

Keep cords away from carpets.

Running a cable under a carpet can keep it out of sight, but it also prevents it from cooling properly and makes it easy to damage by foot traffic or furniture.

Keep cables free and clean.

It’s a bad idea to leave flammable objects near wires or power rails – they will only feed the fire in the event of a failure. Also, do not place boxes or furniture on cords.

keep animals away.

Don’t let your pets chew strings. (And if you have mice in your house, they can do some serious damage too.)

Check regularly.

Check the connectors for nicks, damage, or signs of overheating. If your cables are hidden or in a tangle, you’re probably less likely to check them. It’s worth spending some time tidying up your cables.

Replace damaged cables.

Never patch power and extension cords. Look out for corroded and bent spark plug connectors. It’s much safer to replace the cable – or even the entire device – than to tape down a damaged cable.

use as intended.

Extension cords are classified as temporary wiring. Do not drape cords over nails or attach extension cords

on walls to create an extra outlet. Instead, have an electrician install a permanent outlet. Avoid long runs and stringing together multiple cables. A durable cable is always safer.

Guilty #2: Home Appliances

Dishwashers, refrigerators, toasters, and dryers are all common household appliances that can cause fires due to manufacturing error or misuse.

Dishwasher: The heating element can be defective and water ingress can cause circuit board failures.

Refrigerators: Compressor components and wiring can fail.

Toasters and other small appliances: circuit boards and electrical contacts can fail. Food can catch fire during or after use if left in the toaster.

Dryer: Thermostats can fail and overheat the dryer. If the main heating element fails, molten metal can get into the drum and ignite your clothes.

To prevent an appliance fire from catching you by surprise, make sure you do the following:

Register your devices.

If there is a manufacturer error, you will automatically be made aware of recalls. Sign up for Health Canada’s recall page to receive email alerts for your products.

Unplug it.

Kettles, coffee machines and toasters should not only be disconnected from the mains when on holiday, they should also be disconnected from the mains when not in use! Even if your device is not switched on, the cable is still live when it is plugged in. If you’re not already doing this, unplugging the device after use will take some time to get used to, but it’s an exercise that can literally save lives… not to mention it’s a bit too saves energy!

Stay close when equipment is in use.

People often leave their devices on overnight while they sleep or while they’re out and about during the day. While these times may be more comfortable for your lifestyle, they pose a potential threat to your safety! Device failures are not uncommon, they happen all the time. If you’re home and awake when a problem arises, it’s much easier to spot the danger, get to safety, and call for help. And of course, working smoke alarms are an important safety precaution in any home.

Have your dryer cleaned by a professional.

Contact a company that will clean the inside of your dryer and the exhaust ducts. You will be surprised how much combustible material (lint) can accumulate in it.

Guilty #3: Electronics

Lithium-ion batteries that power our gadgets pack a lot of energy into a very small package. If they fail (usually from damage, improper loading, or a defect), their high energy density can cause an explosion with a fire that can be violent and spread quickly. Defective circuit board components can also fail and catch fire.

Be sure to do the following to prevent fire:

Charge the electronics according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

Protect your laptops, tablets, mobile phones and portable electronic devices from fire hazards by charging them with the right charger at the right setting. Aftermarket chargers should be chosen carefully. Don’t just look at the price tag.

Unplug it.

Remember, if the cord is plugged into an outlet, it will still have power even when the device is turned off. Better separate and be safe, especially when sleeping or leaving the room or house.

Culprit #4: Cooking stoves and ovens

Cooking appliance fires are more often caused by user error than manufacturer defects. They are so common that they deserve their own section.

Here are a few basic tips that I recommend you implement as house rules in your home:

Stay in the kitchen when you cook.

Unattended cooking is one of the most common causes of fires in the home. It’s a simple rule, but you wouldn’t believe what percentage of the fires we help investigate would never have happened if someone hadn’t left the room. We hear it all the time: “I only left the room for a minute!” Consider using an electric deep fryer to make fries instead of a pot on the stove.

Do not overuse the self-cleaning function.

It uses temperatures in excess of 900°F to burn off leftover food — much higher than anything used for cooking. Some claim that it can wear out the oven’s electronics and cause the control panel or other functions to stop working properly. My advice to you is that be sure to follow the instructions in the owner’s manual and check with the manufacturer if you are unsure of the recommended frequency of use of the self-cleaning feature. When using, keep the hob and storage drawer under the oven clear to prevent the extreme heat from melting or igniting combustible materials.

Guilty #5: Exhaust fans

Exhaust fans in bathrooms and laundry rooms are another common source of electrical fires. The dust on an uncleaned fan is an excellent source of fuel for a fire should one start due to fan failure. Sometimes it is not clear that the fan caused a fire in the ceiling space. An ignited plastic fan grill can drip down and ignite bath mats, clothing, and other combustible items.

Check for heat.

Feel the plastic grille while the fan is running. If it’s radiating a lot of heat, you may have spotted a problem.

Open it up and dust it off.

This is probably the easiest way to determine if there is a problem. After dust is removed, inspect the fan for signs of overheating such as discoloration or melting of plastic around the motor. If you notice any signs of overheating, stop using the fan immediately and contact a professional to replace it.

As consumers, we tend to appreciate the convenience of these electronics and devices, but underestimate the dangers of using them improperly. Make a conscious effort to regularly review the 5 most common culprits to ensure everything is working as it should and that you are using them as recommended. The fact is, preventing electrical and electronic fires in your home is easy and pretty straightforward!

Dishwasher. refrigerators. computers. Toaster. exhaust fans. Our homes are full of gadgets and electronics, but most of us don’t consider them a potential fire hazard. The first step to protecting yourself and your family from the dangers of a fire in your home is to make sure you have working smoke alarms throughout your home. Here’s a list of five household items that can potentially overheat or catch fire, with some helpful tips to avoid electrical and electronic failures.

Culprit #1: Cables and power bars

Pinched, punctured, kinked, or otherwise damaged power cords and extension cords don’t look very threatening, but the truth is they pose a serious risk of fire and electric shock.

With these tips you can prevent a cable or socket failure from causing a fire in the house:

Keep power rails and cables away from damp or wet locations.

Marine aquarium electrical systems should be installed by a professional to provide protection from moisture and contamination. Normal power strips and extension cords are not enough. Also, keep weatherproof covers on outdoor outlets closed.

Look behind the couch.

Pushing furniture against an outlet that has a cord plugged into it can damage the plug. Make sure there is enough space behind the couch, bookshelf, bed, or desk to ensure you don’t push against the plug.

Check your kitchen counters.

If a cord is pinched under or behind an appliance, or wrapped around a toaster or kettle, the insulation around the cord can be damaged or melted.

Keep cords away from carpets.

Running a cable under a carpet can keep it out of sight, but it also prevents it from cooling properly and makes it easy to damage by foot traffic or furniture.

Keep cables free and clean.

It’s a bad idea to leave flammable objects near wires or power rails – they will only feed the fire in the event of a failure. Also, do not place boxes or furniture on cords.

keep animals away.

Don’t let your pets chew strings. (And if you have mice in your house, they can do some serious damage too.)

Check regularly.

Check the connectors for nicks, damage, or signs of overheating. If your cables are hidden or in a tangle, you’re probably less likely to check them. It’s worth spending some time tidying up your cables.

Replace damaged cables.

Never patch power and extension cords. Look out for corroded and bent spark plug connectors. It’s much safer to replace the cable – or even the entire device – than to tape down a damaged cable.

use as intended.

Extension cords are classified as temporary wiring. Do not drape cords over nails or attach extension cords

on walls to create an extra outlet. Instead, have an electrician install a permanent outlet. Avoid long runs and stringing together multiple cables. A durable cable is always safer.

Guilty #2: Home Appliances

Dishwashers, refrigerators, toasters, and dryers are all common household appliances that can cause fires due to manufacturing error or misuse.

Dishwasher: The heating element can be defective and water ingress can cause circuit board failures.

Refrigerators: Compressor components and wiring can fail.

Toasters and other small appliances: circuit boards and electrical contacts can fail. Food can catch fire during or after use if left in the toaster.

Dryer: Thermostats can fail and overheat the dryer. If the main heating element fails, molten metal can get into the drum and ignite your clothes.

To prevent an appliance fire from catching you by surprise, make sure you do the following:

Register your devices.

If there is a manufacturer error, you will automatically be made aware of recalls. Sign up for Health Canada’s recall page to receive email alerts for your products.

Unplug it.

Kettles, coffee machines and toasters should not only be disconnected from the mains when on holiday, they should also be disconnected from the mains when not in use! Even if your device is not switched on, the cable is still live when it is plugged in. If you’re not already doing this, unplugging the device after use will take some time to get used to, but it’s an exercise that can literally save lives… not to mention it’s a bit too saves energy!

Stay close when equipment is in use.

People often leave their devices on overnight while they sleep or while they’re out and about during the day. While these times may be more comfortable for your lifestyle, they pose a potential threat to your safety! Device failures are not uncommon, they happen all the time. If you’re home and awake when a problem arises, it’s much easier to spot the danger, get to safety, and call for help. And of course, working smoke alarms are an important safety precaution in any home.

Have your dryer cleaned by a professional.

Contact a company that will clean the inside of your dryer and the exhaust ducts. You will be surprised how much combustible material (lint) can accumulate in it.

Guilty #3: Electronics

Lithium-ion batteries that power our gadgets pack a lot of energy into a very small package. If they fail (usually from damage, improper loading, or a defect), their high energy density can cause an explosion with a fire that can be violent and spread quickly. Defective circuit board components can also fail and catch fire.

Be sure to do the following to prevent fire:

Charge the electronics according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

Protect your laptops, tablets, mobile phones and portable electronic devices from fire hazards by charging them with the right charger at the right setting. Aftermarket chargers should be chosen carefully. Don’t just look at the price tag.

Unplug it.

Remember, if the cord is plugged into an outlet, it will still have power even when the device is turned off. Better separate and be safe, especially when sleeping or leaving the room or house.

Culprit #4: Cooking stoves and ovens

Cooking appliance fires are more often caused by user error than manufacturer defects. They are so common that they deserve their own section.

Here are a few basic tips that I recommend you implement as house rules in your home:

Stay in the kitchen when you cook.

Unattended cooking is one of the most common causes of fires in the home. It’s a simple rule, but you wouldn’t believe what percentage of the fires we help investigate would never have happened if someone hadn’t left the room. We hear it all the time: “I only left the room for a minute!” Consider using an electric deep fryer to make fries instead of a pot on the stove.

Do not overuse the self-cleaning function.

It uses temperatures in excess of 900°F to burn off leftover food — much higher than anything used for cooking. Some claim that it can wear out the oven’s electronics and cause the control panel or other functions to stop working properly. My advice to you is that be sure to follow the instructions in the owner’s manual and check with the manufacturer if you are unsure of the recommended frequency of use of the self-cleaning feature. When using, keep the hob and storage drawer under the oven clear to prevent the extreme heat from melting or igniting combustible materials.

Guilty #5: Exhaust fans

Exhaust fans in bathrooms and laundry rooms are another common source of electrical fires. The dust on an uncleaned fan is an excellent source of fuel for a fire should one start due to fan failure. Sometimes it is not clear that the fan caused a fire in the ceiling space. An ignited plastic fan grill can drip down and ignite bath mats, clothing, and other combustible items.

Check for heat.

Feel the plastic grille while the fan is running. If it’s radiating a lot of heat, you may have spotted a problem.

Open it up and dust it off.

This is probably the easiest way to determine if there is a problem. After dust is removed, inspect the fan for signs of overheating such as discoloration or melting of plastic around the motor. If you notice any signs of overheating, stop using the fan immediately and contact a professional to replace it.

As consumers, we tend to appreciate the convenience of these electronics and devices, but underestimate the dangers of using them improperly. Make a conscious effort to regularly review the 5 most common culprits to ensure everything is working as it should and that you are using them as recommended. The fact is, preventing electrical and electronic fires in your home is easy and pretty straightforward!

Whether you need to charge a smartphone, laptop, tablet or other device, a broken charger can be frustrating and inconvenient. Without needing an electrician’s license, there are several things you can look at to troubleshoot the problem.

There are a few basic reasons why your charger has stopped working:

While some fixes may require a bit of rewiring, there are many fixes you can try to get your broken charger working again.

Make sure the outlet is turned on. Some European-style outlets have individual switches. American homes may use switched surge protectors, a light switch that controls outlets, or a circuit breaker. You may need to reset a tripped circuit breaker.

Make sure the cables are properly connected. Disconnect all cables in the system, wait a few minutes, and then carefully and properly reconnect the cables. When reinstalling, make sure all connections are tight and accurate.

Look for lights. When working with a broken Mac charger, is the status light on? The same goes for status lights in laptop chargers and portable charger batteries.

Restart the charger. The device controls a large part of its charging behavior, so restarting the device will help with charging detection problems.

Try a different outlet. Sockets are robust, but can fail. To confirm that an outlet is working, see our multimeter tips below.

Check the charger for damage. If you see a bare wire, stripped insulation, or wire shield, this could be the cause of the problem. Also, connect the cable and then wiggle both ends of the cable. If the charger works intermittently when you move the cable, the cable’s copper wiring is damaged. If possible, replace the wire with a new one. Do not attempt to wiggle the cord at either end if there are bare or damaged wires. This could result in an electric shock.

Check the components. Temporarily remove the adapter, power strip, power strip, or surge protector and any additional components so that only the charger is plugged into an outlet that is known to be working. If the outlet works but the charger won’t turn on, the problem isn’t with the outlet. If the charger works when plugged into the wall, the problem is with one of the remote components. Add the other parts one by one until the system fails, but don’t stop there. Try adding the pieces in a different order or place.

Check the fuses. When you open the fuse box, look for an upside down breaker and flip it back. The switches in a column or row typically point in the same direction. If you see a fuse with the handle pointing the other way, it has probably blown. Locate the fuse associated with the outlet you are using and reset it. It snaps back into place with a springy noise. In countries that follow the US model, a fuse box contains fuses that each control a section of a home’s outlets. In other countries, the fuse is built into the wall socket. If you are dealing with electricity in a foreign country, check the details before attempting an electrical repair.

Clean the charging port. If you don’t feel a click when you connect the charging cable, look inside the charger. With both Lightning and USB-C charging ports, users have found that anything from pocket lint to a grain of rice caught in the port can prevent the phone from charging. Remove any debris with plastic tweezers, a cotton swab, or a toothpick. Never insert metal into the charging port. If you insert a piece of metal into the charging port the wrong way round, you can short out the connection and destroy the device.

Try a different cable and power adapter. The main reason for the charger failure is the failure of the charging cable. The cable is stressed the most over time, so it’s usually the first to fail. The charging brick that connects the cable to the wall can also fail, although this is not as common. Try a different USB charging cable and adapter and see if the problem resolves itself. Replace one by one to locate the culprit.

Delete the USB port. If a USB port is physically prevented from making good contact by shielding, cable design, connector furniture, or something else, removing that barrier may fix the problem. The sheet metal casing of a USB connector is easy to bend back into shape if it has deformed over time. On modern USB Micro and USB-C devices, flex the small tab inside the charging port if it’s out of place. To avoid electric shock, make sure the device is turned off before attempting any physical electrical repairs.

Check the age and condition of the battery. While the battery can last longer than the device’s usage time, sometimes the relationship is reversed. Check the condition and age of the battery to determine if it needs to be replaced. If you can remove your laptop’s battery, replace the battery and see if the problem persists. You can also calibrate an older battery.

Check charger compatibility. It’s easy to accidentally end up using a physically compatible cable that doesn’t fully work. Laptop chargers are choosier as you can rarely swap them out without problems. In addition, only the right combination of adapter and cable can use all the functions of the device. If you think you are using an incompatible cable, get one that is compatible with your device.

A smartphone connected to a laptop with a USB cable. Credit: Hailshadow/iStock/Getty Images

Dirt and debris in your phone’s charging port or a faulty component are the most likely causes of intermittent cell phone charging issues. If you wiggle the charger or power cord to charge the phone, a loose or faulty connector can cause more damage, so fix the problem as soon as possible.

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accumulation of dirt

If your mobile phone stops charging when you move the charger plug, the problem usually lies with the device’s charging port. Visually inspect the connector for dirt, dust, or lint buildup on the metal charging contacts. Cleaning the charging port with a clean, dry toothbrush or microfiber cloth might solve the problem.

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loading error

Before attempting to repair the phone, it is a good idea to check that the problem is not with the charger. If possible, use a replacement charger to see if the problem is resolved. If you don’t have a spare charger, the only thing you can do is inspect the plug for signs of damage. If you find any signs of damage, it’s best to have the charger replaced before attempting to repair the phone.

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Charge port failure

In almost all mobile phones, the charging connector is connected to the control board in two different ways. The metal contacts in the charging port are lightly soldered to small metal pads on the control board. These connections allow power to flow into the control board, but they are quite fragile. If your phone stops charging when you move the charger, the connections may be unstable or broken. The second way to attach the charging connector to the control board is solder connections. These joints carry no current as their only job is to stabilize the port. If your charging connector is loose, causing charging to stop when you move the connector, it’s because those connections have failed.

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device replacement

Opening the phone and trying to re-solder broken connections is an option. If you don’t have the skills or tools to repair your device, or you don’t want to risk voiding your warranty by opening your phone, you can always try to get a warranty replacement. Whether or not your carrier will honor the warranty generally depends on whether or not they think you damaged the device. These solder joints can fail on their own, so issues like a loose charge connector are generally covered. However, if your device looks abusive, your carrier may void the warranty. If you have insurance, you can always contact the insurance company for a replacement device, or you can simply buy a new phone.