Laptop Tip

Overcharging is not so much of a problem as most modern laptops have circuitry that keeps the battery just under 100% when it is plugged in. That means there is less chance of the battery overheating and catching fire.

However, lithium-ion batteries, like the ones in newer laptops, last longest when they stay between 20% and 80% capacity. When they spend a lot of time above and below those percentages, it shortens the battery's life.

Also, a battery that is charging while the laptop is running will be hotter than usual. That also shortens the overall battery life.

So, if your laptop is always sitting the same place, it is a good idea to unplug it every now and then and let the battery take over. Or you can remove the battery totally and leave it plugged in all the time.