An iPad not charging when plugged in is commonly caused by several factors, including problems with the power supply (charging cable, adapter, or outlet), dust or debris in the charging port, use of an insufficient power adapter, or software glitches.
Common Reasons and Fixes
- Power supply issues: The charging cable or adapter may be faulty or damaged. Trying a different cable, adapter, or power outlet is a key first step. Use original or Apple-certified chargers as uncertified chargers can cause damage and charging problems.
- Dirty charging port: Dust, lint, or debris in the iPad's charging port can prevent proper connection. Carefully cleaning the port with a soft, non-metal tool can often restore charging.
- Low power adapter wattage: Using an iPhone charger (5W) or other low wattage charger may show a "Not Charging" message because the iPad needs 10W or higher to charge properly. Switching to a 20W or higher Apple-certified adapter is recommended.
- Software glitches: Sometimes, charging issues are caused by software. Restarting the iPad or performing a forced restart can clear temporary bugs. Also, ensuring the iPadOS is up-to-date helps avoid power management issues.
- Environmental factors: Make sure the iPad is not too hot or cold as extreme temperatures can prevent charging.
If all these steps fail, the problem may lie in the internal hardware like a faulty battery or charging circuit, and professional repair or Apple support may be necessary. This covers the main reasons why an iPad might not charge when plugged in and outlines practical steps to diagnose and fix the issue.
