Is your Apple Watch displaying a mysterious green snake symbol instead of charging normally? This frustrating issue, often called the “Green Snake of Death,” can leave your watch unusable. But don’t worry – in this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know to get your Apple Watch charging again.
Understanding the Apple Watch Charging Snake Error

The “green snake” error occurs when your Apple Watch’s battery is critically low and unable to power on normally. Instead of the usual charging indicator, you’ll see a green snake-like symbol resembling the magnetic charging cable.
Common Causes of the Green Snake Error:
- Completely drained battery
- Faulty charging cable or adapter
- Dirty charging surfaces
- Software glitches
- Water damage
- Hardware failure
While alarming, this error is often fixable with some troubleshooting. Let’s explore the steps you can take to resolve the issue.
Initial Troubleshooting Steps
Before diving into more advanced solutions, start with these basic checks:
- Examine your charging equipment: Ensure your charging cable and adapter are genuine Apple products and show no signs of damage.
- Clean charging surfaces: Use a soft, lint-free cloth to clean both the back of your Apple Watch and the magnetic charger. Even small amounts of dirt or debris can interfere with charging.
- Try different power sources: Test your charger with different wall outlets or USB ports to rule out power supply issues.
- Check the connection: Make sure the magnetic charger is properly aligned and securely attached to your watch.
If these initial steps don’t resolve the issue, it’s time to try more advanced solutions.
Advanced Solutions for Apple Watch Charging Issues
Let the Battery Drain Completely
Sometimes, allowing your Apple Watch’s battery to drain entirely can reset the charging system:
- Leave your watch off the charger until it’s completely dead (no response when pressing buttons).
- Place it on the charger and wait for at least 2-3 hours.
- If successful, you should see the normal charging indicator instead of the green snake.
Force Restart Your Apple Watch
A force restart can sometimes clear software glitches causing charging issues:

- Press and hold both the side button and Digital Crown simultaneously.
- Keep holding for at least 10 seconds until you see the Apple logo.
- Release the buttons and allow your watch to restart.
Update watchOS Software
Outdated software can sometimes cause charging problems. If possible, update your Apple Watch to the latest version of watchOS:
- Ensure your iPhone is running the latest iOS version.
- Connect your Apple Watch to its charger.
- On your iPhone, go to Watch app > General > Software Update.
- Follow the prompts to install any available updates.
If you’re having trouble updating, check out our guide on what to do when your Apple Watch is unable to check for updates.
Reset Apple Watch Settings
If software issues persist, resetting your watch’s settings (without erasing data) may help:
- On your Apple Watch, go to Settings > General > Reset.
- Tap “Reset All Settings” and confirm.
- After the reset, try charging again.
Addressing Potential Hardware Problems
If software-based solutions don’t work, you may be dealing with a hardware issue.
Check for Water Damage
While newer Apple Watch models are water-resistant, exposure to water can still cause problems:
- Check for moisture under the display or in ports.
- If water damage is suspected, power off the watch immediately and let it dry completely before attempting to charge.
Inspect for Physical Damage
Carefully examine your Apple Watch for any signs of physical damage that could affect charging:
- Look for cracks in the screen or case.
- Check if the back sensor is loose or damaged.
- Ensure the charging port is free of debris and undamaged.
Consider Battery Health
If your Apple Watch is several years old, the battery may have degraded:
- On your watch, go to Settings > Battery > Battery Health.
- If maximum capacity is below 80%, consider a battery replacement.
For more information on battery issues, read our article on Apple Watch battery drain.
When to Contact Apple Support
If you’ve tried all the above solutions without success, it’s time to seek professional help:

- Check warranty status: If your watch is still under warranty or covered by AppleCare+, repairs may be free or discounted.
- Schedule a Genius Bar appointment: Visit an Apple Store for in-person diagnostics and repair.
- Use mail-in repair services: If you can’t visit a store, Apple offers mail-in options for servicing your watch.
Preventing Future Charging Issues
To avoid encountering the green snake error again, follow these best practices:
- Use only genuine Apple charging accessories.
- Keep your watch and charger clean and dry.
- Avoid extreme temperatures while charging.
- Update your watchOS regularly.
- Don’t let your watch’s battery completely drain frequently.
These tips can also help prevent other common issues like iPhones constantly restarting.
FAQs About Apple Watch Charging Problems
- Q: How long does it take to fix the green snake error? A: Resolution time varies, but allowing 2-3 hours for charging after troubleshooting is recommended.
- Q: Can I use a non-Apple charger for my Apple Watch? A: It’s best to use only genuine Apple chargers to avoid compatibility issues and potential damage.
- Q: Will I lose data if I reset my Apple Watch? A: Resetting settings won’t erase your data, but it’s always wise to back up your watch before any major changes.
- Q: How often should I update my Apple Watch software? A: Install updates as soon as they’re available to ensure optimal performance and security.
- Q: What’s the typical lifespan of an Apple Watch battery? A: Apple Watch batteries are designed to retain up to 80% of original capacity after 1000 complete charge cycles.
By following this guide, you should be able to resolve most Apple Watch charging issues, including the dreaded green snake error. Remember, if you’re ever unsure or uncomfortable performing any of these steps, don’t hesitate to contact Apple Support for professional assistance.