Correct usage and maintenance of the AC/DC Power Adapters — Desktop & Wall-Mount

AC/DC Power Adapters — Desktop & Wall-Mount usage tips, safe and proper usage methods, and maintenance are explained. We offer advice on how to use your AC/DC Power Adapters — Desktop & Wall-Mount for as long as possible.

How to extend the lifespan of an AC adapter

Avoid high temperature and humidity

The standard operating temperature range for Unifive AC adapters is 0–40°C. However, due to the characteristics of the internal components, higher temperatures significantly reduce their lifespan.

For example, a product used continuously at 40°C—20°C higher than the ideal—will have its lifespan reduced to approximately one-fourth compared to usage at 20°C.

Even when used in an air-conditioned room, placing the adapter in a cramped space like the back of a shelf or tightly packed power strips can cause localized heating. If placed under blankets or cushions, it can heat up like a heated table, raising the unit temperature and shortening its life.

Although humidity alone does not directly affect lifespan, sudden temperature changes in a high-humidity environment can cause condensation inside the product, potentially damaging internal circuits. This is technically not a reduction of lifespan, but a premature failure.

From the perspective of an AC adapter, internal condensation reflects the same conditions described in our previous newsletter article titled "Don’t Let It Get Wet!"

Click here for the article “Don’t Let the AC adapter get wet...”

Occasionally (about once every six months) unplug the adapter and clean the AC pins

This is also not directly related to lifespan, but it is mentioned in our past newsletter “About Tracking Countermeasures...”, and is also covered on the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry’s product safety guideline page.

In some cases, there is a risk of fire, so AC plugs of all electrical products—not just AC adapters—should be cleaned regularly.

Click here for the article “About Tracking Countermeasures for AC Adapters...”

Unplug the AC adapter of unused products from the outlet

Many modern products are designed to remain in standby mode, drawing current even when the power switch is off, so they are always ready for use.

Unplugging the AC adapters of unused products not only extends the life of the adapter, but also contributes to energy savings and prevention of tracking phenomena—benefiting you in three ways.

Using a power strip with a switch can provide the same effect, but regular plug maintenance—such as cleaning the AC pins—is still necessary for tracking prevention.

Examples of usage that shortens AC adapter lifespan and recommended installation practices

Follow the correct connection order to avoid electrostatic discharge (ESD) issues

Electrostatic discharge (ESD) is invisible but can cause serious damage to electronic devices. Static electricity can reach several kilovolts and has enough energy to destroy electronic components. Excessive static electricity is a major cause of internal damage in AC adapters, leading to failures.

The most important point is to follow the correct connection order below:

1. First, connect the DC plug of the AC adapter to the electronic device.
2. Then, plug the AC adapter into the wall outlet.

This order is important because connecting the DC plug to the device first ensures the adapter is grounded, allowing static electricity to safely dissipate. If you plug the adapter into the wall first and then connect the DC plug to the device, there is a higher risk of static discharge and damage.

By thoroughly addressing static electricity, safety is improved and the lifespan of both the AC adapter and electronic devices can be extended.

At Unifive, we also respond to requests for long-lasting AC adapters and those that can operate over wide temperature ranges.

For more information, please feel free to contact our sales department.

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