Are you having trouble getting your ION speaker to charge? If so, you’re not alone. Many users experience this issue and it can be frustrating when you want to use your speaker but it won’t turn on because of a dead battery.
But don’t worry, there are several fixes that you can try before giving up on your speaker. In this guide, we’ll go through 8 possible solutions to get your ION speaker charging again.
First and Foremost:
Before diving into troubleshooting, it’s crucial to respect your time as a reader. Here are three essential points to keep in mind:
If you’ve recently purchased your ION speaker and it’s already causing charging problems, it might be wise to ask for a refund.
Save your time and money by exploring alternative speakers in the same price range, like “Klipsch Groove XXL” and “Audioengine B2”, which might offer better performance.
Typically, an ION speaker functions well for 2-5 years. If you’ve had yours for this duration, you’ve already received good value for your money.
Attempting to fix an older speaker might only provide a short-term solution, lasting perhaps 1 or 2 months.
If you’re still enjoying music, consider investing in a new speaker for a more reliable experience.
If your ION speaker is under four years old, you can try the practical fixes mentioned below.
These solutions are geared towards addressing common issues and optimizing the charging performance of a relatively younger speaker.
How to Fix ION Speaker Not Charging
Check the Charging Cable
The first step to troubleshooting an ION speaker that is not charging is to check the charging cable. According to ION Audio Support, the Bright Max and Bright Max Plus require a Micro-USB cable for charging.
This cable should connect to a 5V charging block with at least 2A (2,000 mA) capacity. Charging blocks supplied with phones might not suffice, because a 1A power block could lead to insufficient power for the speaker. This can result in reduced battery life or prevent the speaker from turning on entirely.
Therefore, it is important to ensure that the charging cable is in good condition and the charging block meets the required specifications.
A damaged or faulty charging cable can also hinder the charging process. Swap out the Micro-USB cable for a different one to see if the speaker starts charging.
Sometimes, a simple cable replacement can resolve the issue.
Clean the Charging Port
Dirt, dust, and debris can accumulate in the charging port of your speaker, preventing proper contact with the charging cable.
To clean the charging port of an ION speaker, you can follow these steps:
- Turn off the speaker and remove the battery if possible.
- Use a soft cloth or a cotton swab to gently clean the charging port.
- If there is visible debris, you can use a plastic or wooden toothpick to remove it.
- Dampen a soft cloth with a small amount of rubbing alcohol or distilled water, and use it to clean the charging port.
- Be careful not to push the debris further inside the port or damage the components.
- After cleaning, allow the charging port to dry completely before using it again.
It is essential to avoid using metal tools or objects, harsh chemicals, or cleaning agents that can damage the charging port.
Reset the Speaker
If your ION speaker is still not charging, you can try resetting it. This can help to resolve any software or firmware issues that may be preventing the speaker from charging.
To reset your ION speaker, you will need to locate the reset button. This is usually found on the bottom or back of the speaker.
Once you have found the reset button, press and hold it for about 10 seconds. This will reset the speaker to its default settings and may resolve the charging issue.
If resetting the speaker does not work, you can try updating the firmware or software. This can help to ensure that the speaker is running the latest version of its operating system, which may resolve any charging issues.
To update the firmware or software, you will need to visit the manufacturer’s website and download the latest version of the firmware or software for your speaker.
Once you have downloaded the update, follow the instructions provided by the manufacturer to install it on your speaker.
Check The Battery:
If your ION speaker is not charging, it might be due to a faulty battery. Remember, ION uses rechargeable sealed lead-acid batteries, which have a limited lifespan.
If you have used it for a long time or if you haven’t used it for 6 months, the battery may not charge.
Another way to check if the battery is the issue is to perform a simple test by leaving the speaker plugged in and charging overnight (at least 8-10 hours).
After charging, disconnect the speaker from the power source and power it on. If the battery level indicator shows that the battery is not fully charged or drops quickly, or if the speaker does not power on at all or powers off shortly after powering on, then the battery might need to be replaced.
We recommend hiring a professional to replace the battery, as it requires technical knowledge.
If you have trouble finding a replacement battery or believe your battery may have failed during the warranty period, please contact ION Audio for assistance.
It is also important to note that leaving the battery at low or no charge for an extended period of time can reduce the battery lifespan and/or reduce its ability to store a charge. To get the longest life from your ION speaker battery, fully charge the battery before using it and after every use, and drain the battery 80% once a month.
Check for a Hidden Fuse
If your ION speaker still isn’t charging, there might be a hidden fuse that needs to be checked. In some ION speakers, there is a fuse that can be found near the battery compartment or the charging port.
This fuse can protect the speaker from power surges or short circuits. If the fuse is blown, it can prevent the speaker from charging.
To check the fuse, you will need to locate it first. It may be hidden behind a battery cover or under the speaker . Once you have located the fuse, you can use a multimeter to test it for continuity. If the fuse has continuity, it is working properly. If it does not have continuity, it needs to be replaced.
To replace the fuse, you will need to purchase a replacement fuse with the same amperage rating. You can usually find replacement fuses at electronics stores or online.
Once you have the replacement fuse, you can remove the old fuse and insert the new one.
It is important to note that if the fuse is blown, it may indicate a larger issue with the speaker’s electrical system. If the fuse continues to blow after being replaced, it is recommended to seek professional help to diagnose and repair the issue.
Temperature Concerns
Temperature can significantly affect the charging process of an ION speaker. If the speaker is exposed to extreme temperatures, it may not charge properly.
Battery University’s article on charging lead acid batteries advises against charging at temperatures above 49°C (120°F) and recommends lowering the float charge voltage if the ambient temperature is higher than 29°C (85°F) to prevent damage to the battery.
If the speaker has been exposed to extreme temperatures, it may be necessary to allow it to return to room temperature before attempting to charge it again.
Additionally, if the speaker has been stored in a cold environment for an extended period, it may be beneficial to charge it to a low level before storing it again to prevent damage to the battery.
Battery Safety Mode
If your ION speaker is not charging properly, it may be in Battery Safety Mode, also known as Battery Care mode.
This mode limits the maximum charge capacity to approximately 90% and makes the battery life last longer. The playback time available in Battery Care mode is shorter than the time available when the built-in battery is charged by the normal charging method.
To place/bring the speaker into/out of Battery Care mode, press and hold the BATTERY button/BATTERY CARE button behind the cap on the rear side of the speaker for about 2 seconds.
When All Else Fails
If none of the above solutions work, it’s time to seek assistance from the professionals. Contact ION Audio’s technical support for further guidance.
They may provide specific troubleshooting steps or recommend a service center for more in-depth diagnostics.
Conclusion
Troubleshooting a non-charging ION speaker involves a systematic approach, ruling out potential issues step by step.
From checking the battery and charging block to inspecting the power connection, cable, and hidden fuse, these solutions cover a wide range of possibilities.
Always prioritize safety when dealing with electronic devices and batteries. If uncertainty persists, feel free to reach out to the manufacturer’s technical support for expert assistance.
Your ION speaker deserves the chance to come back to life, so take the time to diagnose and resolve the issue effectively.
