Confirm that the combination is supported
Start with the exact phone model, charging pad and the adapter powering the pad. A pad lighting up does not establish that it is compatible with the phone or receiving the intended power. Read the makers' specifications rather than relying on a similar-looking device from the same brand.
Write down whether charging never begins, starts and stops, or simply appears slower than expected. Compare against the product's normal behaviour and the conditions of the test. Do not promise a charging speed based on the largest wattage printed on an adapter.
Check placement and removable accessories
Google's Pixel guidance identifies alignment and objects attached to the back of the phone as checks, alongside temperature and activity. Follow the instructions for the actual phone and pad. A case or attachment can change the physical relationship between the devices, so record what is fitted during the failing test.
If it is safe to remove a detachable case, compare the same placement with and without it. Keep metal objects and unsuitable accessories away from the charging area. Do not wedge objects under the phone to force a position or keep charging through an unusual heat condition.
Control workload and temperature
A phone using substantial power while on a pad may show a different battery trend from an idle device. Note whether the screen is on and which task is running. Let an unusually warm device return to appropriate conditions before continuing, using the manufacturer's guidance.
Compare one known-compatible setup with the reported failing setup. If wired charging works, that is a useful comparison of two paths, not proof that every battery or charging component is healthy. If both paths fail, do not assume they share the same root cause without further evidence.
Bring the whole charging system to assessment
A service visit is more informative when the phone, pad, cable and pad adapter can be identified together. Record which combination was tested and whether the fault was reproduced. A demonstration using only the workshop's pad may miss a problem specific to the owner's setup.
For students, this is a useful lesson in system diagnosis. The symptom belongs to an interaction between products and conditions. An evidence-led check can avoid an unnecessary phone repair, or show clearly why internal assessment is justified.
Sources and further reading
Manufacturer and technical references for the checks discussed in this guide. Follow the instructions for your exact device and equipment.
Repair procedures involve heat, electricity, fragile parts and customer data. Practise under qualified supervision and work only on devices you are authorized to service.
