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Surface Pro Charging Issue: Why Is My Surface Pro Not Charging Even Though the Light Is On?

What to know

  • One common problem that Surface Pro users face is a situation where the charging light is on, but the device isn’t actually charging.
  • The charging light on your Surface Pro is a visual indicator that power is flowing to the device.
  • Carefully use a toothpick or a cotton swab wrapped in a clean cloth to remove any stubborn debris.

The Surface Pro is a powerful and versatile device, but even the best technology can encounter issues. One common problem that Surface Pro users face is a situation where the charging light is on, but the device isn’t actually charging. This can be frustrating, especially if you need to use your Surface Pro urgently. In this blog post, we’ll delve into the reasons behind this perplexing issue and provide you with a comprehensive guide to troubleshoot and resolve it.

Understanding the Problem

The charging light on your Surface Pro is a visual indicator that power is flowing to the device. However, this light doesn’t guarantee that your Surface Pro is actually charging. The light could be on for various reasons, including:

  • A faulty charging cable: The cable might be damaged, causing a break in the electrical connection.
  • A faulty power adapter: The power adapter might be malfunctioning, preventing power from reaching the device.
  • A dirty charging port: Dust and debris can accumulate in the charging port, obstructing the connection.
  • Software glitches: Software issues can sometimes interfere with the charging process.
  • Battery issues: A faulty battery might prevent it from accepting a charge.

Troubleshooting Steps

Here’s a step-by-step guide to troubleshoot why your Surface Pro isn‘t charging even though the light is on:

1. Check the Charging Cable and Adapter

  • Inspect the cable for any damage: Look for fraying, kinks, or breaks in the cable. Replace the cable if you find any damage.
  • Test the adapter with another device: Plug the adapter into a different device to see if it’s functioning properly.
  • Try a different power outlet: Plug the adapter into a different outlet to rule out any issues with the current outlet.

2. Clean the Charging Port

  • Use a compressed air can: Gently blow compressed air into the charging port to remove any dust or debris.
  • Use a toothpick or a cotton swab: Carefully use a toothpick or a cotton swab wrapped in a clean cloth to remove any stubborn debris.

3. Update Your Surface Pro Drivers

Outdated drivers can sometimes cause charging issues. Updating your drivers can often resolve this problem.

  • Go to the Windows Update settings: Open the Settings app and navigate to “Update & Security”.
  • Click on “Check for updates”: Windows will automatically search for and install any available updates.

4. Restart Your Surface Pro

Restarting your Surface Pro can sometimes resolve software glitches that might be interfering with the charging process.

  • Press and hold the power button: Press and hold the power button until the power options menu appears.
  • Select “Restart”: Your Surface Pro will restart.

5. Check for Battery Issues

If none of the above steps resolve the issue, your Surface Pro battery might be faulty.

  • Contact Microsoft Support: Contact Microsoft Support for assistance in troubleshooting battery issues.

6. Perform a Factory Reset

If all else fails, a factory reset can sometimes resolve underlying software issues that might be preventing your Surface Pro from charging.

  • Back up your data: Before performing a factory reset, back up all your important data.
  • Navigate to the “Reset this PC” option: Open the Settings app and navigate to “Update & Security”. Then, click on “Recovery” and select “Reset this PC”.

The Importance of Using Original Accessories

Using non-genuine Surface Pro accessories, such as charging cables or power adapters, can lead to charging issues and potentially damage your device. Always use original Microsoft accessories to ensure compatibility and optimal performance.

Preventative Measures

Here are some tips to prevent charging issues in the future:

  • Avoid using your Surface Pro while charging: Using your Surface Pro while charging can put a strain on the battery and charging system.
  • Regularly clean the charging port: Clean the charging port regularly to prevent dust and debris buildup.
  • Use a surge protector: A surge protector can protect your Surface Pro from power surges that can damage the charging system.

Final Thoughts: When to Seek Professional Help

If you’ve tried all the troubleshooting steps mentioned above and your Surface Pro still isn’t charging, it’s time to seek professional help. Contact Microsoft Support or an authorized repair center to get your Surface Pro diagnosed and repaired by qualified technicians.

What You Need to Learn

Q: What if my Surface Pro is still not charging after trying all the troubleshooting steps?
A: If you’ve tried all the troubleshooting steps and your Surface Pro still isn’t charging, it’s likely that there’s a hardware issue, such as a faulty battery or a damaged charging port. In this case, you’ll need to contact Microsoft Support or an authorized repair center for assistance.
Q: Can I use a third-party charging cable or power adapter for my Surface Pro?
A: While you might find third-party accessories that claim to be compatible with Surface Pro, it’s always recommended to use original Microsoft accessories. Using non-genuine accessories can lead to charging issues and potentially damage your device.
Q: How often should I clean the charging port of my Surface Pro?
A: It’s a good practice to clean the charging port of your Surface Pro at least once a month, or more frequently if you use your device in dusty or dirty environments.
Q: Is there any way to check the health of my Surface Pro battery?
A: Yes, you can check the health of your Surface Pro battery by opening the Settings app and navigating to “System” > “Battery”. The battery health information will be displayed there.
Q: What should I do if my Surface Pro battery is draining quickly even when it’s plugged in?
A: If your Surface Pro battery is draining quickly even when it’s plugged in, it could be a sign of a faulty battery, a software issue, or a problem with the charging system. Try the troubleshooting steps mentioned in this article. If the problem persists, contact Microsoft Support or an authorized repair center.

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About the Author
Davidson is the founder of Techlogie, a leading tech troubleshooting resource. With 15+ years in IT support, he created Techlogie to easily help users fix their own devices without appointments or repair costs. When not writing new tutorials, Davidson enjoys exploring the latest gadgets and their inner workings. He holds...