Problem: why does my Apple 20W USB-C Power Adapter get hot charging my iPad Air? My solution below.

Question

cath34 Author

Level 1

4 points

Problem: why does my Apple 20W USB-C Power Adapter get hot charging my iPad Air? My solution below.

I watch videos through various apps on my iPad Air while charging.

Device: iPad Air 13-inch (M2) model A2899, last updated to iPadIOS 18.6.2

Charged with:

Apple 20W USB-C Power Adapter attached to a 60W USB-C Charge Cable

My solution to problem:

I checked the settings on my iPad Air for screen brightness, which was on high and then checked my battery usage by app. I fixed my problem by turning the screen brightness down to mid level and closed the apps that I was not using which showed the most battery usage by app. The result is a mildly warm power adapter during charging.

It appears the answer of why hot adapter charging is happening has something to do with the amount of power consumption during charging.

Posted on Sep 3, 2025 06:06 PM

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Answer 1

Sep 4, 2025 02:27 AM in response to cath34

It is perfectly normal for a Power Adapter to become very warm while charging your iPad - or any device.

Your Power Adapter is converting AC (Alternating Current) "mains" power (typically 110-240 Volts AC) to a much lower voltage DC (Direct Current) suitable for low-power devices and charging of batteries. This power conversion creates heat - this being dissipated to the surrounding air. The more power that a device draws, the more heat that its electrical and electronic components will generate.

While your Power Adapter will become very warm while being used, it should not become too hot to touch or hold.

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Answer 2

Sep 12, 2025 01:38 PM in response to LotusPilot

Thank you very much for the informative answer as to why my power adapter can get hot but still safe to touch.

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Answer 3

Sep 12, 2025 04:53 PM in response to CapeMay08

You're very welcome.

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