Getting Better Battery Life From Your Laptop

As our computers gain in age, and the batteries wear down, it can sometimes be very difficult to maintain a useable amount of battery function when your computer is unplugged. When battery life starts to drop, many simply run out and spend the money to buy a new battery. However, this is not the only solution. In fact, a variety of methods exist for expanding the life of your battery without spending a single cent. When we talk about increasing the amount of life you can get from your laptop, these few simple tips can sometimes add hours to your batter life depending on your computer and the overall condition of your battery.

1. Check your battery settings - Many laptop users forget that they can regulate the amount of power that their computer uses. On a windows computer, simply access the control panel and click on the battery settings icon. Set the battery so that it lowers the overall performance of the computer, also reduce the amount of time that it takes for the screen to stay on when the computer is not in use. On an Apple computer, simply click on the battery icon in the top right and select "Better Battery Life". Although this will result in a loss of overall performance on your computer, your battery life will be greatly expanded.

2. Close the programs your not using - Many times, when using your laptop, you have a substantial number of programs running that you do not need, yet are sucking the battery life out of your computer. Thankfully, this is fairly easy to fix. Simply look at your computer. If you are not connected to the internet, turn off features such as Bluetooth (if active), virus protection, and anything else that may be running but having no use. On an Apple computer, sometimes forgotten programs stay open. Check this by looking at your dock. Close any program (make sure to "Quit") that is running (has a black arrow below it) and that you are not using.

3. Turn down the Brightness - While having a bright screen may make some activities easier, such as typing. Often times, computer monitors are left on excessively bright levels. Not only can these bright levels stress your vision, they are a major contributor of what can suck out your battery life. Turn the brightness down three or four notches, so that you can see comfortably, but the screen does not glow, and notice the instant amount of battery life you have gained.

4. Clean up your computer - Dirty components, such as fans and cooling units, can make it harder for a computer to function properly, thus requiring more battery life. Make sure that everything is functioning properly, and that your computer is properly cooling to expand your battery life even further.

5. Do not overcharge - If your computer is simply sitting on your desk, there is no reason to leave it plugged in constantly. This can do damage to the battery and lower the overall condition and life of the battery. To prevent this, only plug in your computer until it is fully charged, and then remove the cable. If done from when the laptop is new, this can substantially increase your battery life.

In order to find out some more simple tricks for increasing battery life, simply check out your manual or operating guide. Most computers offer a variety of methods that can extend battery life and help to make sure that your computer gets the longest running time possible. Remember, with a little common sense and some technical know how, you can save yourself a lot of money and hassle.