Why Does My Samsung Galaxy S4 Only Get Charged When Turned Off? Exploring Solutions and Fixes

Have you ever encountered the frustrating situation where your Samsung Galaxy S4 only gets charged when it is turned off? This article will delve into possible causes and offer solutions to address this issue.

Understanding the Problem

There are several reasons why your Samsung Galaxy S4 might only charge when it is off. Here, we will explore common issues and provide step-by-step solutions to help you resolve this problem.

Insufficient Power from the AC Adapter

One of the most common reasons is that the AC adapter you are using does not have a sufficiently high power rating. When your phone is turned off, the adapter has enough power to charge the device, but when it is on, the phone draws more power, leaving insufficient power for the charger to function effectively.

Consider the following tips:

Check the Power Rating: Ensure your AC adapter has a power rating that matches or exceeds your phone's charging requirements. Replace Old Adapters: If you are using an old adapter from an earlier model, it may not meet the power requirements of your current phone.

For reference, a standard charger for your Samsung Galaxy S4 should have a minimum power rating of 2.1A (5V/2.1A) when charging while the device is on.

Poor Power Supply From Other Sources

Instead of using a mains charger, if you plug your phone into another device like a laptop or a car charger, the power supply might not be sufficient.

Mains Charger: A standard mains charger is designed to provide a higher power output that can support your phone's charging needs. Try using a different mains charger to see if it resolves the issue. Car Charger: If you are using a cheap car charger, it might not provide enough power. Consider investing in a higher-quality car charger.

For optimal performance, always use a charger that supports the required power output for your device.

Signs of Battery Degradation

If your phone battery is nearing the end of its life, it may not be able to charge effectively when the phone is on. This is because the battery can no longer hold a charge while providing power to the device simultaneously.

Here’s what to look out for:

Diminished Battery Life: If your phone drains quickly even while charging, this could indicate a failing battery. Slow Charging: A visibly slow charging process can also be a sign that the battery is degrading.

In such cases, it is recommended to replace the battery. This will not only improve charging performance but also extend the overall lifespan of your device.

Software and Hardware Issues

There are several software and hardware-related issues that can cause charging problems. Here are a couple of steps to diagnose the issue:

Using a Different Cable: Sometimes, a faulty charging cable can lead to charging issues. Try using a different cable to see if it resolves the problem. Safe Mode: If the issue persists, try booting your phone into safe mode. If it charges in safe mode, it indicates that an installed app is causing the problem. Thoroughly review and uninstall any newly installed apps one by one to identify the culprit. Factory Reset: If your phone does not charge in safe mode, you will need to perform a factory reset. This is a drastic measure, but it can help identify hardware-related issues.

Hardware Defects

For hardware-related defects, it is best to have a professional examine the charging port. If the cleaning process does not resolve the issue, a replacement is necessary. Additionally, it is advisable to get a new charger that is rated appropriately for your Samsung Galaxy S4.

Conclusion: Your Samsung Galaxy S4 not charging when it is turned on could be due to various reasons, including insufficient power from the adapter, poor external power supply, or a degraded battery. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can determine the root cause and take appropriate action to resolve the issue. If you continue to experience problems, seek professional assistance.