Simple tips to make your tech last longer

Your smartphone crashes before an important call. Your laptop freezes when you're on a deadline. Your tablet's battery drains faster than ever. Sound familiar? We've all been there. It's frustrating when the devices we rely on start letting us down.

You don't have to accept a short lifespan for your devices. Small maintenance habits, timely repairs, and a little preventive care can help your tech stay reliable for years. The result: fewer surprise breakdowns, fewer expensive replacements, and more value from the devices you already own.

Save money by making devices last longer

Replacing devices is expensive. A new smartphone can cost anywhere from $300 to $1,200, and new laptops often range from $500 to over $2,000. By adopting habits that extend the life of your devices, you can delay expensive purchases and keep more cash in your pocket.

Help the environment by caring for your tech

Electronic waste is one of the fastest-growing waste streams in the world. By extending your device’s lifespan, you reduce the demand for new manufacturing and keep functional electronics out of landfills.

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Easy ways to extend the life of your tech

The secret to longer-lasting tech lies in consistent, mindful care. Here are simple but effective habits to keep your gadgets performing their best over time.

Keep your devices clean

Make cleaning your devices a monthly habit. Learn how to clean your phone or how to clean your laptop.

• Use a microfiber cloth and screen-safe cleaners for phones and tablets.
• Clear dust from laptop vents and keyboards using compressed air.
• Use a dry toothbrush to clear charging ports.

We regularly see devices with problems that are ultimately caused by dust, lint, and debris buildup. A few minutes of cleaning can sometimes prevent a much bigger repair later—even better, give your device a professional deep-clean from time to time.

Avoid extreme temperatures

• Don’t leave devices in hot cars, direct sunlight, or near heaters.
• During winter, let cold devices warm up to room temperature before turning them on.
• If your device feels unusually hot while in use, give it a break to cool down.

Heat is one of the most common contributors to long-term device wear. Batteries, processors, and displays all perform best within normal operating temperatures.

Use protective gear like cases and screen protectors

• Padded sleeves protect laptops when traveling.
• Laptop stands can improve airflow and reduce overheating.
• Surge protectors are critical for devices that stay plugged in.

Don’t ignore software updates

Software updates may seem inconvenient, but they’re vital. They patch bugs, improve performance, and keep your devices secure.

• Set up automatic updates or check monthly.
• Always back up important data before major updates.
• Follow guides like how to update your iPhone or how to update your Android phone.

Charge your battery the right way

Your device’s battery health matters.

• Keep your charge between 20% and 80%.
• Avoid full discharges or constant 100% charging.
• Use optimized charging features when available.
• Check battery health—iPhone users can learn how in our guide on how to check iPhone battery health.

If your battery no longer lasts through the day, replacement is often more affordable than replacing the entire device. Battery replacements remain one of the most common repairs performed by uBreakiFix® by Asurion in-store technicians.

Be careful with storage and usage habits

• Don’t overfill storage; keep at least 10–15% free.
• Close apps you’re not using.
• Be gentle with screens, ports, and keyboards.

When to get expert help

Sometimes maintenance isn’t enough.

If your device has a failing battery, overheating issues, charging problems, a cracked screen, damaged ports, or other hardware concerns, addressing the problem early can often prevent more expensive damage later. If you're unsure whether a repair makes sense, our guide on when to repair or replace your tech can help you weigh the costs and benefits.

At uBreakiFix® by Asurion, our certified technicians can diagnose issues, replace worn batteries, repair cracked screens, clean internal components, fix charging ports, and perform other repairs that help extend the life of your devices. Stop by your nearest store today for a free diagnostic and fast fixes backed by a 1-year limited warranty.

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FAQ

How can I make my phone battery last longer?

To make your phone battery last longer, keep the charge between 20% and 80%. Use power-saving modes, close unused apps, lower screen brightness, and avoid extreme temperatures.

Should I turn off my device at night?

Not necessarily. Most modern devices are designed to stay on continuously. Restarting periodically can help refresh system performance and clear temporary issues.

How often should I clean my phone or laptop?

Aim for monthly cleanings, or more often if your device is exposed to dust, pet hair, or other debris. Use microfiber cloths for screens and compressed air for vents and keyboards.

Is it better to repair a device or replace it?

It depends on the device’s age, condition, and repair cost. Many common issues—such as battery failures, cracked screens, charging problems, and overheating—can often be repaired for much less than the cost of a replacement.