Really hot power charger - normal?

[bcfc_ade]

The "Brick" part of the charging cable for my mid-2014 MacBook Pro 15" with Retina Display is really hot.

It's 2 years old but can't say I've ever noticed if it's always been like this or not, is this normal?

thanks in advance

 

[T5BRICK]

How hot is "really hot?"

It's probably fine.

 

[MacInTO]

Once mine got really hot, I heard a 'pop' and then it died.

 

[997440]

There is protection built in, but how hot is too hot, I don't know.

A bunch of good info besides the following quote, here -- https://support.apple.com/en-us/HT203207

[...]4. Be sure you are using the adapter in a well ventilated area
The power adapter may become very warm during normal use as heat generated during operating radiates from the adapter's casing. Always put the power adapter directly into a power outlet or place it on the floor in a well-ventilated location. If you are using your MagSafe adapter in a poorly ventilated area such as on a couch, in thick carpeting, on bedding, or a pillow, or if the MagSafe adapter is covered by a blanket or other form of insulation, it may turn itself off in order to prevent damage to the adapter. The adapter may still be quite warm in this state and should be allowed to cool before handling.[...]

 

[bcfc_ade]

thanks for the replies, what I've noticed is it's nowhere near as hot if I disconnect the laptop cooler - I guess this must be drawing a lot of power and making it so hot - does that make any sense?

 

[Samuelsan2001]

thanks for the replies, what I've noticed is it's nowhere near as hot if I disconnect the laptop cooler - I guess this must be drawing a lot of power and making it so hot - does that make any sense?

Yes'mespecially if you use the cooler because you are also running intensive programs, it is possible for your Mac to lose battery while plugged in when the machine is maxed out, it draws more power than the psu can supply.

 

[Newtons Apple]

thanks for the replies, what I've noticed is it's nowhere near as hot if I disconnect the laptop cooler - I guess this must be drawing a lot of power and making it so hot - does that make any sense?

If the cooler is running off of USB there is little doubt your power brick is maxing out and causing it to heat up.

Does your MacBook get so warm your have to use a cooler?

 

[bcfc_ade]

sorry for delay in replying but yes it does get very hot, especially when I have dev tools like intellij running, the bit above the F Keys gets red hot

 

[T'hain Esh Kelch]

thanks for the replies, what I've noticed is it's nowhere near as hot if I disconnect the laptop cooler - I guess this must be drawing a lot of power and making it so hot - does that make any sense?

A power supply that draws power.. What a surprise!