Let’s see what can we do when the USB-C power adapter that came with your Mac notebook computer stops charging, becomes warm or sparks.
Normally, MacBook computers come with a USB-C power adapter and charge cable. Moreover, you can learn which power adapter and cable come with your Mac notebook computer, and find troubleshooting suggestions as below. If you’re facing a problem with a non-Apple power adapter, try using the Apple power adapter and cable that came with your Mac notebook instead.
when your Mac notebook with USB-C doesn’t charge
When your USB-C power adapter isn’t charging your MacBook, MacBook Air, or MacBook Pro, first of first you should try unplugging the power adapter from the power outlet, then wait for a few seconds, and then try it again. If it doesn’t work, try these things too.
Check power
In this case we suggest to become sure the USB-C power adapter that came with your Mac notebook is really connected to a known working power outlet. Test plugging in a lamp or other appliance to become sure the outlet has power or not. If you’ve plugged the power adapter into a power strip, try plugging it into the wall outlet directly.
Whenever, the power adapter shuts off, interference might be affecting the power outlet you’re using. If your power adapter works for a while, but then stops charging, temporarily unplug it from the power outlet. Wait for 30 seconds, then plug the power adapter back in.
If your Mac notebook starts charging after you plug the power adapter back in, this might shows an issue with line noise (disruption caused by stray electromagnetic signals) from your power outlet. Automatically, the power adapter shuts off when its built-in voltage protection feature senses line noise from an outlet.
Some possible sources of line noise contain lights with ballasts, refrigerators or mini-refrigerators that are on the same electrical circuit as the outlet you’re using. So it’s better to plug the power adapter into an uninterruptible power supply (UPS) or an outlet that’s on a different circuit can help.
When your power adapter continues to turn itself off when connected to a known good outlet, finally, take your adapter to an Apple Authorized Service Provider or Apple Retail Store for further evaluation.
Don’t forget to try this too, actually, your power adapter comes with a removable AC plug that has the blades you insert into a power point. If your Mac notebook doesn’t charge when using the AC plug with the power adapter, you can try it with another Apple AC plug or try using an Apple Power Adapter Extension Cable (sold separately).
Test cabling
Your Mac notebook has a USB-C cable that charges the computer. You can find out if this cable is causing your charging problem or not by testing another USB-C cable. Never forget, not all USB-C cables can charge your MacBook, MacBook Air or MacBook Pro, so make sure the cable you try is designed for charging.
When your Mac notebook charges with one USB-C cable but not another, stop using the cable that doesn’t work and get your cable and power supply evaluated immediately.
When your Mac notebook begins charging only when you wiggle or move the USB-C cable or Apple Power Adapter Extension Cable (sold separately), stop using the cable and right away get your cable and power supply evaluated.
Test for updates
Sometimes, software or firmware updates might be available for your computer that improve communication with your power adapter. If your MacBook, MacBook Air or MacBook Pro with USB-C isn’t charging as expected, check for software updates on your Mac.
When the adapter becomes warm
Consider that the USB-C power adapter can become warm when you are using it normally, so you should become sure to use it in a well examined area. Always plug the power adapter straight into a power outlet using the AC plug or place it on a table or other well ventilated area when using the Power Adapter Extension Cable (sold separately).
Always avoid placing your adapter in a poorly ventilated area, for instance on a sofa, thick carpeting, bedding or a pillow. Moreover, avoid covering the adapter with a blanket or other insulation.
The power adapter might turn itself off whenever it gets too warm. If this happens, disconnect the USB-C cable from your Mac notebook, then let the power adapter cool down before handling it.
When you see a spark
When you plug in the USB-C power adapter, it might spark where the blades of the plug enter the outlet. This is normal generally and it might happen when you plug any electrical appliance into a power outlet.
In case, you face any of the following when you plug in your adapter, or if you have other concerns about sparking, you should contact Apple:
- Contact Apple if a spark comes from somewhere other than the blades of the plug.
- Contact Apple if you see any damage or discoloration on the adapter.
Get your Mac notebook and power supply evaluated
Whether your Mac notebook with USB-C is in or out of warranty, you can bring it to an Apple Authorised Service Provider or Apple Retail Store for evaluation. Please bring your Mac, your USB-C power adapter and any USB-C cables you use for charging.
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