Is your PS4 controller not charging as quickly as it used to?
After sometime, dust and dirt might accumulate in the USB charging port, causing connection issues and decreased charging speeds.
An unclean USB charging port is a typical issue that gamers have, and it can have a major effect on the controller’s functioning.
But don’t worry! Cleaning the USB charging port is simple and requires no particular expertise.
In this article, I will take you through a few basic procedures to help you maintain the charging port on your controller.
You only need a few regular household goods and a little patience.
Common Issues Caused By Dirty Charging Ports
Every problem occurs because of some root cause and if you are facing any problem then, this problem has some cause.
Charging Problem
It is the most common cause which will occur if your charging port is not clean.
It will take extra time to get fully charged compared to the charger which is in the best condition.
Reduce The Battery Life
If the process of charging becomes difficult, the electricity source may not reach full capacity, which leads to a reduced whole battery life.
Forever Damage Of Component
A dirty changing port can lead to internal damage to the component of the controller.
So to avoid the above causes you need to understand the maintenance of the PS4 controller charging port.
Preparation To Clean USB Charging Port
So, in order to clean the controller’s port, you’ll need the following tools.
You may be thinking why we require specialised cleaning equipment.
So, let me tell you, a new controller costs roughly $50, and cleaning the controller’s port carelessly will cost the same as buying a new controller.
Grab these items before start to clean the USB charging port:
A Jewellers Loupe – It is not that expensive so you can easily get this one at home.
Cotton Swabs – This is very helpful to clean the port without any inside damage.
Toothpicks – These are good enough to remove the crud in the PS4 controller.
Compressed Air – This will help in releasing larger fragments that may be got in the port.
Table Or Lots Of Books – A small table will be required to hold the controller, which will help to free your hands to do work carefully. You also take some books and arrange them like a table and hold your controller.
Cleaning Your PS4 Controller’s USB Charging Port
1. Safely Disconnect the Controller
Before cleaning the charging port you may need to disconnect all the devices connected to the controller.
- Disconnect the PS4 controller from the console.
- Disconnect any additional devices that are still connected to the controller.
- Turn off the controller to avoid any electrical shock.
2. Create Setup
To ensure an efficient and neat cleaning operation, create an appropriate configuration before cleaning your PS4 controller’s USB charging port.
- On the table keep the controller
- Collect at one place all the required equipment so whenever you need specific one you can do it easily.
- Keep the controller where enough light is present so that you can easily see the controller’s dust.
- Setup all the equipment at once.
3. Use Compressed Air
Using compressed air is a great option to clean loose particles and dust from the USB charging related to your PS4 controller.
- Make sure that the long pump is attached. Place the tip of the pump in the USB Socket.
- Place the pump at a 46 degree angle while aiming to port.
- Make sure that the pump is having some distance from the port (1-2 cm).
- Do not pump air into the USB port for a long duration of time.
4. Visual Inspection
The next thing is to find the obstacle inside the port.
- Use the jewellers Loupe.
- View the USB charging port with a flashlight. Inspect the port for any obvious dirt, dust, debris, or damage.
5. Gentle Cleaning with a Toothpick
If you find dust or small particles then you need to clean it with the help of a toothpick.
- Insert a toothpick, remembering that it must be very fine, slowly into the USB port.
- A very thin piece of metal dangling in the centre of the USB port may be visible. This is the connector that goes into the USB cable.
6. Second Round of Compressed Air
After cleaning the port, now it’s time to provide compressed air again.
- Using the compressed air, give the controller’s USB charging port another blow of air.
- This is supposed to remove all the particles and dirt that you failed to get away with the toothpick or tap out when the controller was turned upside down.
7. Reconnect and Test
Now it’s time to test your controller to see if it is cleaned or not perfectly and it is working well.
- Reconnect the charging pin to the controller’s port and if the light will turn on then the problem is fixed.
Additional Steps If the Problem Persists
If the problem is persistent after doing all the given stuff then have a look at the below solution.
If your USB port is still not working, there could be some little grains of sand or grit in behind the port’s thin side metal strip. This is really difficult to support.
If you try to clean those metal strips on your own then this will lead to breaking down the strip.
I will recommend that you try blasting the air or bowing the air again and again.
FAQs
How Often Should I Clean My PS4 Controller’s Charging Port?
Clean the charging port on your PS4 controller every 2-3 months or if you encounter charging problems. Cleaning on a regular basis avoids junk buildup and promotes consistent charging function.
Can I Use Any Type Of Alcohol For Cleaning?
Yes you can use Isopropyl alcohol at a concentration of 70% or you can use higher than 70% for cleaning purposes. Other forms of alcohol, such as rubbing alcohol or ethanol, can also be utilised, however isopropyl alcohol is most typically used for electronic components because of its efficacy and evaporation capabilities.
Is It Safe To Clean The Controller While It’s Connected To The Console?
No, cleaning the controller while it’s connected to the console is not safe. To avoid any electrical dangers or damage, disconnect the controller from any power source before cleaning. Before performing any maintenance, always turn off the power and unplug the controller.
Conclusion
A dirty USB charging port is a typical issue that can have a major impact on performance. In this article you will get all the process of effectively cleaning the PS4 controller’s USB charging port, ensuring your controller stays in top shape.
Cleaning on a regular basis provides top performance, a longer battery lifespan, and the prevention of damage.
After following all the above methods and understanding the importance of maintenance, you can have excellent cleaning tips and will help you to get a cleaned charging port.
