Symptoms
- Charger brick is too hot to comfortably touch
- Charging cable is warm along its length, not just at the brick
- Discoloration, melting, or a burning smell near the adapter
- Charger clicks or buzzes while in use
Likely causes
- CommonPoor ventilation around the charger while in useChargers run warm normally; covering them with blankets or bags traps heat.
- CommonAging or failing internal components in the adapterCapacitors and transformers degrade with age and heat cycling.
- PossibleDamaged cable causing electrical resistance and heat buildupFrayed or pinched wiring generates heat at the damaged point.
- PossibleNon-original or low-quality chargerCheap third-party chargers sometimes lack proper thermal protection.
- Less commonLaptop drawing more power than the charger is rated forUsing an undersized charger for a high-power laptop can overheat it.
What to do
- Unplug the charger immediately if it's hot, smoking, or smells burnt, and let it cool in a safe open area.
- Check that the charger isn't covered by a blanket, bag, or pillow while in use.
- Inspect the cable and brick for cracks, discoloration, or a melted look.
- Confirm the charger's wattage matches what the laptop manufacturer specifies.
- Stop using any charger that is not the original or a certified replacement if overheating started after switching chargers.
- Do not continue using a charger that overheated even once without a clear, resolved explanation (like being covered).
Tools and parts
- None required
Manufacturer-certified replacement chargerSearch: “[laptop brand model] genuine or certified charger wattage”
When to call a pro
If overheating continues with a proper, correctly-rated charger, have the laptop's charging circuit inspected by a professional rather than continuing to use it.
Safety
Use caution
A hot, discolored, or burning-smell charger is a fire risk; unplug it, don't use it again, and don't leave it charging unattended in the future.