Separate an outlet, cable, adapter, port, temperature or charging-status issue before buying replacements or attempting hardware repair.
Step-by-step checks
1. Check the power source
Unplug the adapter briefly, test the outlet with a safe known device and reconnect the charger directly to a working outlet.
2. Restart and read the status
Restart the Mac and check whether macOS reports Slow Charger, Charging On Hold, a charge limit or Battery Is Not Charging. These messages have different meanings.
3. Test a suitable cable
Try a known compatible USB-C cable that supports charging. Some USB-C cables carry data but do not provide the power the Mac requires.
4. Inspect without inserting objects
Check the cable, adapter and USB-C ports for visible debris, damage, discoloration or looseness. Do not use metal tools or open a mains adapter.
5. Confirm adequate power
Use Apple’s specifications for the Mac model and check delivered wattage. A low-power adapter may charge slowly or not keep up during use.
When to stop
Stop using equipment that is damaged, discoloured, unusually hot, sparking away from the plug blades or working only when the cable is moved. Arrange qualified evaluation.
What to tell an expert
Share the device model, operating system, exact symptom or error, when it began, what changed beforehand, and which checks you completed. Do not send passwords, one-time codes, encryption recovery keys, or unnecessary personal files.
Official reference
This Supportia guide was prepared with current official guidance as a factual baseline. Interface names can still vary by device and version. Open the official reference.
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