How to store a MacBook Air for extended periods?

I am regularly absent from my MacAir for 3-6 months, so the best way to leave it is:

Shut down and plugged in to mains power?

Sleep mode and plugged in to mains power?

Either of the above, but disconnected, and at what % battery charge?


[Re-Titled by Moderator]

Original Title: MacAir in storage



MacBook Air 13″, macOS 15.5

Posted on Jun 27, 2025 11:49 AM

Reply
1 reply

Jun 27, 2025 12:00 PM in response to EverChanginMoods

Source:

Batteries - Maximizing Performance - Apple


Store it half-charged when you store it long term.


If you want to store your device long term, two key factors will affect the overall health of your battery: the environmental temperature and the percentage of charge on the battery when it’s powered down for storage. Therefore, we recommend the following:


  • Do not fully charge or fully discharge your device’s battery — charge it to around 50%. If you store a device when its battery is fully discharged, the battery could fall into a deep discharge state, which renders it incapable of holding a charge. Conversely, if you store it fully charged for an extended period of time, the battery may lose some capacity, leading to shorter battery life.
  • Power down the device to avoid additional battery use.
  • Place your device in a cool, moisture-free environment that’s less than 90° F (32° C).
  • If you plan to store your device for longer than six months, charge it to 50% every six months.


Depending on how long you store your device, it may be in a low-battery state when you remove it from long-term storage. After it’s removed from storage, it may require 20 minutes of charging with the original adapter before you can use it.


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How to store a MacBook Air for extended periods?

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