Power bank gets hot while charging or in use

Symptoms

• Power bank is noticeably hot to the touch during charging or use
• Casing feels soft, bulges, or is warped
• Heat is worse when charging multiple devices from it at once
• Power bank has been dropped or exposed to heat or water previously

Likely causes

• CommonCharging multiple devices simultaneously at high outputDrawing near the bank's maximum rated output generates more heat than light use.
• CommonCharging in direct sunlight or a hot carAmbient heat compounds the normal heat from charging.
• PossibleInternal battery aging or beginning to degradeOlder lithium cells generate more heat as their internal resistance increases.
• PossiblePhysical damage from a prior drop or impactInternal damage can cause abnormal heat generation.
• Less commonBattery swelling from internal cell failureA visibly swollen power bank is a serious safety concern.

What to do

1. Move the power bank out of direct sun or a hot vehicle immediately if it's hot.
2. Avoid charging multiple devices from it at once if it consistently runs hot.
3. Check the casing for any bulging, warping, or soft spots, which indicate cell swelling.
4. If it's simply warm but flat and normal-shaped, let it cool and reduce simultaneous load going forward.
5. If it's genuinely hot to hold, bulging, or smells odd, stop using it, move it to a non-flammable surface away from anything that can burn, and let it cool undisturbed.
6. Do not puncture, charge, or use a swollen power bank; dispose of it at a battery recycling location.

Tools and parts

• None required

When to call a pro

There is no repair for a degraded or swelling lithium battery pack; replace the power bank and recycle it properly.

Safety