User’s Experience with Charging Bluetooth Headphones After a Long Time of Not Being Used

One user reports that they forgot to charge their Bluetooth headphones for about a week. Upon last use, the headphones were on 0% and trying to charge them now reveals that it doesn’t seem to be working. This situation is typical of battery issues caused by self-discharge and over-discharge. Let's delve into the science behind it and how to maintain the health of your Bluetooth headphones.

Self-Discharge and How It Affects Lithium Batteries

Batteries, including the lithium-ion batteries found in Bluetooth headphones, tend to self-discharge when not in use. This natural process is faster in older batteries. When a battery discharges too much, a charger will no longer recognize it. At this point, the battery may be irreparably damaged and needs to be replaced. Unfortunately, most Bluetooth headphones do not have replaceable batteries. This is why it is crucial to ensure that your headphones are regularly charged and used.

Why It's Important to Use Your Headphones Regularly

Leaving headphones uncharged for an extended period can lead to issues. The standby power that keeps the headphones alive when not in use can drain a battery quickly. Even if you use the headphones for a short time each day, ensure you charge them regularly to avoid heavy damage due to prolonged self-discharge. However, it's worth noting that a week is not a particularly long time, and if the standby current is low, your headphones may still function well after a short period of inactivity.

What to Do If Your Headphones Don’t Charge After a Long Period

If you try to charge your headphones after a long period without use and the charging doesn’t work, there are several possibilities to consider:

Over-Discharge Protection: Most Bluetooth headphones have built-in over-discharge protection to prevent the battery from being completely drained. This protection mechanism often results in the headphones shutting down before the battery is entirely drained, to protect the battery from damage. Standby Power: Even when turned off, headphones may still consume some power, known as standby power. This can cause the battery to gradually discharge over time. If the standby current is high, using the headphones for a short period each day can help refresh the battery and prevent it from being damaged. Limited Initial Charge Detection: Some electronics have a feature where they attempt a very slow initial charge to “wake up” a battery that has been in low state for a while. If this happens, give the headphones some time to try and recognize the charging source, often taking several hours to complete the initial charge.

It is also possible that you have damaged the battery by leaving it uncharged for an extended period. Lithium-ion cells can be damaged by over-discharge, and your headphones will stop working before this happens due to protective measures. However, the battery will still take standby power unless your headphones have a real power switch, and the battery will eventually die.

Tips for Maintaining Your Bluetooth Headphones

Regular Use and Charging: Use your headphones regularly and charge them even when not in immediate use. This helps to keep the battery in a good condition and avoids deep discharge. Store Properly: If you have to store your headphones for an extended period, ensure the battery is at a healthy level, typically 50-70%. Avoid storing them in extreme temperatures as this can also affect the battery's lifespan. Use a Quality Charger: A reliable charger can help prevent further damage to the battery and maintain its health. Avoid using cheap chargers which might not deliver the correct voltage and current.

By following these tips, you can help ensure the longevity of your Bluetooth headphones and their batteries. Remember, regular use and charging are key to keeping your headphones in top condition, even after a week or so of non-use.