How to Reset a Power Bank: Troubleshooting Guide

Ever had that moment when your phone just freezes and a reboot fixes everything? Or maybe it's your laptop. It suddenly starts acting up and a reset makes it like new again. We've all been there, and it's amazing how a little reboot could fix everything. Well, your trusty power bank can also go wrong sometimes, and guess what? A reset could be the magic ingredient to restore it to prime condition. If you've been sitting there with your head in your hands, wondering why your power bank won't charge your devices, then this troubleshooting guide is for you. Let's get started and find out how to reboot your power bank!

When to Reset Your Power Bank

There are some tell-tale indicators that your portable charger might need a reset. The most glaring one is it no longer charges your devices at all. You plug in your phone or tablet as usual, expecting a recharge of power, but nothing happens. It could be that your power bank has encountered a software glitch or minor internal malfunction that's preventing it from delivering power.

Another scenario is if your power bank is showing a false battery level. You might see that it's still displaying 100% even though you've used it to charge several devices, or that it plummets to 0% even though it's still supposed to have some juice in it. The false reading can be frustrating and can lead you to run out of power at the worst possible moment. Normally, a reset can effectively recalibrate the battery indicator and give you a more accurate reading.

If your power bank becomes excessively hot during charging or discharging, this is a sign that there is something wrong. Overheating can not only damage the power bank, but can also be dangerous. Resetting your power bank may correct any underlying issues that are causing it to overheat.

Lastly, if you notice some strange behavior, such as the power bank turning on and off on its own or making some weird noises, it's definitely time to try a reset. These are warning signs of a more serious problem, but a reset is a simple first step that can save you from having to replace your power bank in the first place.

How to Reset a Power Bank

Before You Start

Just before you jump into resetting your portable charger, keep in mind the following. First, have a good look at the power bank for any physical damage. Check for cracks, dents, or bulging of the casing. If you find something unusual, it's best to stop using the power bank right away. It is dangerous to use a damaged power bank, for it may lead to fire or explosion. 

Next, think about the charging issues you've been experiencing. Is your power bank not charging at all, or very slowly? Sometimes the problem might not be with the power bank itself, but with the charging cable or adapter you are using. Try a different cable and adapter and see if the problem is solved. And don't forget to check the power bank's USB port and your device's USB port as well. Make sure they're both free from dust or dirt.

Another crucial step is to consult your power bank's user manual. Different power bank models and brands may have different reset procedures. Some may have a designated reset button, while others will require you to press a series of buttons in a specific sequence. The user manual will have all the information you need to reset your power bank safely and successfully. No longer have the physical manual? No worries! Most manufacturers provide digital copies on their websites that you can access and download.

Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Power off and disconnect

Start by turning off your power bank completely. This might seem obvious, but it's an important first step to ensure a safe reset. Then, disconnect any devices currently plugged in from the power bank. These include your phones, tablets, Bluetooth earbuds, or any other gadgets you have connected.

Step 2: Locate the reset button

If your power bank has a reset button, it's usually a small button located on the side or bottom of the device. You can use a paperclip or a small pin to press the button. If you don't see a reset button, refer to your user manual for the correct button combination or reset procedure.

Step 3: Press the reset button or execute the procedure

Once you have located the reset button or know the correct procedure, press the button or perform the set of procedures as instructed. Hold it down for the suggested amount of time. You might not receive any explicit indication that the reset is successfully completed, but don't worry.

Step 4: Turn the power bank back on and recharge

Next, turn your power bank back on and recharge it using the original cable. Charge it for a few hours at least, or until the battery indicator shows that it is fully charged. This step is important as it can reset the power bank's battery management system and make sure it's ready to function properly.

Step 5: Test the power bank

Once the power bank is fully charged, disconnect it from the power source and try to use it to charge your devices again. Check whether it works now, and whether the battery level indicators are displaying accurate information. If the issues persist, you may need to repeat the reset process or look for additional assistance from the manufacturers' customer support.

Tips to Maintain Your Power Bank in Prime Condition

While a quick reset can bring your power bank back to life, nothing beats proper maintenance for long-lasting reliability.

Avoid Overcharging and Overdischarging

Just like your smartphone or laptop batteries, the batteries in your power bank hate being overcharged or overdischarged. Overcharging can cause the battery to heat up and degrade over time, while overdischarging can lead to a decrease in battery capacity. Instead of letting the battery level drop to 0%, recharge your power bank when it has 20% to 20% juice left, and unplug it once it reaches 100%.

Use Quality Cables and Adapters

Cables and adapters matter, and matter a lot. Invest in high-quality cables and adapters that are compatible with your power bank. Cheap, low-quality ones can not only affect your charging experience, but can also potentially damage your power bank. Always look for cables and adapters from trusted manufacturers.

Keep It Clean

Regular cleaning is just as important for your phone as it is for your trusty power bank. Clean the exterior of the power bank with a soft, dry cloth to remove any dirt, dust, or fingerprints. And don't overlook the USB ports, either. Any debris stuck in them can make your power bank act up. Plus, avoid using abrasive cleaners, as they can damage the power bank's casing.

Store It Properly

When you're not using your power bank for an extended period, make sure to store it in a cool, dry place. Avoid storing it in direct sunlight, extreme temperatures, or in a humid environment. Generally, power banks stay in top shape when stored between 5°C-25°C (41°F-77°F).

Update the Firmware (If Applicable)

Some advanced power banks come with firmware that can be updated for optimized performance. It's best to check the manufacturer's website regularly for any available firmware updates and follow the instructions to install them. Such updates can effectively improve your power bank's performance, fix bugs, and introduce new features.

Conclusions

To sum up, resetting your power bank can be a simple yet effective solution to a variety of common issues. Whether it's not charging your devices, showing wonky battery percentage, or just acting weird, following the simple troubleshooting steps in this guide can get your power bank up and running smoothly.

By following the maintenance tips we've shared, you can also ensure that your trusty power bank stays in prime condition for years to come, keeping your devices charged and ready. 

Still got questions? We're here for you! Drop a comment below and let us know.

FAQs

1. Can resetting my power bank damage it?

Normally, resetting your power bank is safe and won't cause any damage. It's designed to be a quick fix for minor issues without damaging the internal components. However, if your power bank has physical damage, don't attempt a reset.

2. How often should I reset my power bank?

You don't need to reset your power bank on a regular schedule. Only consider resetting it when you notice specific problems, such as those mentioned earlier, like charging failures or incorrect battery level displays. Resetting your power bank frequently won't necessarily make it work better and might even cause unnecessary wear if you're constantly pressing a physical reset button. Just think of resetting as a troubleshooting tool, not as a routine maintenance step.

3. What if resetting my power bank doesn't solve the problem?

If your power bank still isn't working properly after a reset, don't panic. First, double-check that you reset correctly. For example, whether you have held down the reset button long enough. You can also try it out by using another charger or cable to rule out problems with your charging accessories. If it still doesn't work, contact customer service. They might offer some technical support or tell you if your power bank can be repaired or replaced.