iPhone 7 Won’t Turn On? Here's What You Can Do

offer_banner_mobile
All Posts

There are a multitude of reasons why an iPhone 7 or 7 Plus won’t turn on – but don’t worry, there’s a good chance we’ve got a solution for you!

In general, iPhone 7 problems stem from a failure of either the hardware or the software. Fortunately, it’s often the latter. If you have an iPhone 7 or 7 Plus software issue, a few simple steps can help narrow down and solve the problem.

So, how do you determine why your iPhone 7 won’t turn on? Read on to find out.

Fix my phone

  

iPhone 7 software crash – try a forced restart

iPhone 7 software issues

This is always our first go-to move when trying to revive a lifeless iPhone. If your screen is black or the display if frozen, a forced restart can provide a seemingly miraculous solution. To force restart an iPhone 7, press and hold both the Side and Volume Down buttons simultaneously for at least 10 seconds, until the Apple logo appears.

If the forced restart works, then your phone probably experienced a software crash. In this case, we’d recommend backing up your data now. You can find out just how to do this on our post dedicated to data recovery.

This is because if the software on your phone isn’t stable, it can lead to further complications down the line – though we think it’s always best to back up your data regularly anyway. With your data safely backed up, you’ll now be able to update your software and hopefully nip the problem in the bud. To learn how to update your software, skip ahead to the Recovery/Factory Restore sections.


Power up

iPhone 7 forced restart

Photo Credit: iClarified

If the forced restart didn’t do the trick, it’s a good idea to plug your phone in for at least an hour to let it power up. An exhausted battery can lead to some finicky behavior sometimes, and a quick boost can get things running smoothly again.

But before you go on to other business while letting your phone charge, make sure that the connection is good. First, wait a few minutes to see if the battery charging screen appears. If it does, just let your iPhone 7 charge for a while. If you don’t see that charging screen, though, it’s time for a few more steps.

Swap out the charger and cable and try a different set – it’s possible that the power source isn’t working. You can also try to clear out any debris from inside your phone’s lightning port that may be inhibiting the connection.

Finally, on occasion a phone will charge only via a laptop, not through a wall charger. While this is indicative of a larger problem, connecting your iPhone 7 to a laptop could at least provide a temporary solution to your power issue.


iPhone 7 loop disease

iPhone 7 loop disease

Photo Credit: ikream

If your iPhone 7 is freezing, or has a grayed-out voice memo icon – or speaker icon, during phone calls – your phone may be suffering from a hardware issue called iPhone 7 loop disease.

As the condition progresses, users have reported getting stuck on the Apple logo during startup – hence the name. Many experts believe that loop disease stems from a loosening of a chip, similar to that of the iPhone 6 touch disease.

For solutions relating to iPhone 7 loop disease, check out our blog post on the subject here.

 

Liquid damage

iPhone 7 liquid damage

If your phone is suffering from liquid damage, you probably already know it – simply think back to whether or not your phone was exposed to liquid enough to damage it. But whether a friend borrowed your phone and didn’t mention the little soda spill they may have done, or if you simply didn’t notice it as it happened, it’s possible that liquid damage can be preventing your phone from turning on.

If you do suspect liquid damage as the issue, time is an important factor. Furthermore, it’s important that you don’t try to turn your phone on again – the electricity and liquid could cause some circuits to short.

We’ve got a great guide for phones suffering from water damage here (hint: skip the rice – and the chopsticks, too!).


iPhone 7 recovery mode

If you’re getting stuck at startup – some users have reported seeing either a red or blue screen, or freezing of the white Apple logo – you can connect your phone to a computer and launch it into recovery mode.

From there, you can update your iOS – hopefully without losing any of your data, though ideally, you’ve already performed a data backup by now. First, connect your iPhone to your computer and open iTunes.

When your phone is connected to iTunes, hold down the Side and Volume Down buttons at the same time. Keep them pressed even after the Apple logo appears, until you see the Recovery mode screen.

When the Recovery mode screen pops up, you can let go. It’ll then ask you whether you want to update or restore. Select update, and iTunes will reinstall your iOS.


iPhone 7 factory restore

iPhone 7 recover mode

You'll need a PC or MacBook to enter iPhone 7 Recovery or DFU Mode.

This is a “deeper” sort of restore than the recovery mode version listed above – and you must be sure to backup your data before proceeding. Also called a Direct Firmware Update, or DFU, the factory restore will do just that – restore your iPhone 7 to the way it was when it rolled off the factory line.

To perform an iPhone 7 factory restore, follow similar steps as above: Connect your iPhone 7 to a computer – it doesn’t matter if the phone is on or off at this point. Hold the Side and Volume Down buttons simultaneously for 8 seconds.

Now, after 8 seconds, release only the Side button, while continuing to hold the Volume Down button. You should see a message that says, “iTunes has detected an iPhone in recovery mode.”

You can now let go of the Volume Down button. If performed correctly, your iPhone 7’s screen should be completely black. You can then restore your phone via iTunes.

 

You can count on Puls

Puls iPhone 7 repair

If none of these troubleshooting tips work for you, it may be time to call in the big guns. Don’t worry, Puls makes this easier than ever. Simply hop online and book an appointment with a certified Puls technician.

We’ll be happy to visit you at the time and place of your choice – be it at home, the office, or even the gym! And, of course, all parts and services rendered by Puls are covered by our lifetime guarantee. Click here to get $10 off your first service with us.

Jake S.
Jake Sherman is a professional writer with a background in journalism. He is fascinated by home appliances and how they work. He enjoys breaking down complex topics and explaining them in interesting ways. He has been a Puls staff writer for two years. When he's not writing, he enjoys trotting around the globe, trying unfamiliar foods, and testing unmarked doors to see if they're locked.
Related Posts

For years, yards were treated as something separate from daily life. They were nice to look at, maybe used occasionally on weekends, and largely defined by curb appeal rather than function. As long as the grass was cut and things looked tidy from the street, the yard felt “done.” That perspective is changing. Today, homeowners are increasingly treating their yards as active living spaces—places to relax, gather, work, and unwind. This shift isn’t driven by trends alone. It reflects deeper changes in how people use their homes and how much they value spaces that support everyday routines. Yards are no longer just outdoor extras. They’re becoming part of how homes actually function. From Occasional Use to Everyday Space One of the biggest changes in yard use is frequency. Instead of being reserved for special occasions, yards are now part of daily life. Homeowners are using their yards for: Morning coffee or quiet breaks Casual meals and family time Light exercise or stretching Kids’ play and downtime Evening wind-down routines As usage increases, expectations change. A yard that’s used regularly needs to feel accessible, comfortable, and easy to maintain. Comfort Is Driving Yard Design Choices Modern yard use is less about show and more about comfort. Homeowners aren’t trying to create magazine-perfect outdoor spaces—they want areas that feel welcoming and usable without a lot of effort. Comfort-focused choices include: Defined seating areas Even, safe walking surfaces Practical lighting for evenings Thoughtful placement of furniture and features When yards are set up with comfort in mind, they naturally become places people want to spend time. Lighting Is a Key Enabler of Use Lighting has become one of the most important elements in how yards are used. Without good lighting, outdoor spaces tend to disappear after sunset. With it, they remain part of daily life. Homeowners are prioritizing: Pathway lighting for easy movement Soft ambient lighting for seating areas Functional lighting near entrances or work zones Well-planned outdoor lighting extends usability without changing the character of the space. Yards as Low-Pressure Social Spaces Another shift is how yards are used socially. Instead of formal gatherings, homeowners are leaning into casual, low-pressure outdoor time. This might look like: Quick dinners outside Neighbors stopping by Kids playing while adults relax nearby These moments don’t require elaborate setups—they just require spaces that feel ready and inviting. The Rise of “Functional Zones” Rather than treating the yard as one large open area, homeowners are increasingly dividing it into functional zones. This mirrors how indoor spaces are used. Common yard zones include: A seating or lounging area A dining or grilling spot A play or activity space A storage or utility area Zoning helps yards feel organized and intentional, even without major landscaping changes. Maintenance as Enablement, Not Chores As yards become more integrated into daily life, the way homeowners think about yard care is changing. Instead of viewing maintenance as a chore, it’s seen as something that enables use. Care is focused on: Keeping walkways clear and safe Ensuring features are stable and secure Maintaining lighting and access points This approach keeps yards usable without turning upkeep into a constant project. Outdoor Power and Connectivity Matter More With increased yard use comes a greater need for power and connectivity. Outdoor speakers, lighting, work tools, and occasional devices all benefit from thoughtful electrical access. Homeowners are paying attention to: Convenient outdoor outlets Secure mounting for fixtures Safe routing of cords and connections Professional installation ensures these elements are handled cleanly and reliably. Storage Is Part of Yard Functionality Yards often support a mix of activities, which means storage matters. Homeowners are using sheds, cabinets, and designated storage areas to keep outdoor spaces usable without clutter. When storage is well-planned: Yards stay tidy Setup and cleanup take less time Outdoor use feels spontaneous rather than effortful This makes it easier to use the yard regularly instead of only when everything is “just right.” Yards and Home Flow Yards increasingly act as extensions of indoor space. Easy access from kitchens, living rooms, or basements makes outdoor use feel natural rather than separate. This flow is supported by: Clear entry points Well-lit transitions Stable steps, doors, and pathways When indoor and outdoor spaces connect smoothly, yards become part of the home’s everyday rhythm. Professional Help Keeps Yard Projects Simple As yards take on more roles, homeowners are choosing professional help to keep projects manageable. This isn’t about large-scale landscaping—it’s about getting the details right. Puls technicians can help with outdoor lighting installation, mounting, electrical work, and general handyman tasks, making it easier to create yard spaces that feel intentional without adding complexity. Seasonal Changes Without the Stress Modern yard use adapts naturally to the seasons. Instead of major seasonal overhauls, homeowners are making small adjustments that keep yards comfortable throughout the year. This might include: Adjusting lighting as days shorten Reconfiguring seating for cooler weather Preparing access points for different conditions Because the yard is already part of daily life, these shifts feel simple rather than disruptive. Yards as a Buffer Between Home and World Another reason yards are gaining importance is the sense of separation they provide. They offer outdoor space without leaving home—a buffer that supports relaxation and presence. This role has become especially valuable as people look for ways to step outside briefly without planning an outing. Yard Care and Long-Term Home Enjoyment While resale value isn’t always the goal, yards that are easy to use and well cared for tend to enhance long-term enjoyment of the home. A yard that feels ready—rather than demanding—encourages more frequent use and adds to the overall sense that the home is well run. Why This Shift Is Happening Now Several broader trends are shaping how yards are used: More flexible schedules Greater focus on home-based routines A desire for everyday comfort over formality Yards fit naturally into this evolution, offering space, flexibility, and connection without expansion. The Future of Yards in Modern Homes Looking ahead, yards will continue to be shaped by usability rather than aesthetics alone. Homeowners will focus on: Comfort and access Thoughtful lighting Reliable setup and support Yards that are easy to use will always be used more often. Making the Yard Work for You Yards don’t need to be elaborate to be valuable. When they’re comfortable, accessible, and supported by professional care, they quietly enhance daily life. Calling a Puls technician for yard-related improvements or installations helps homeowners create outdoor spaces that feel ready when they’re needed—without turning yard care into a project. A New Role for an Old Space The modern yard isn’t about perfection. It’s about usefulness. It’s a place to step into briefly or stay awhile, to gather or to pause. As homeowners continue to rethink how they use their space, yards are stepping into a new role—not as extras, but as everyday living areas that support modern life.

  • 10 min read
  • 05/18/26

Home maintenance can feel overwhelming when it’s framed as one endless checklist. When everything seems important at once, it’s easy to delay action altogether and hope nothing urgent pops up. A room-by-room strategy makes home care feel more manageable. Instead of thinking about your home as one big project, you focus on individual spaces. This makes it easier to notice small changes, address issues early, and avoid the kind of problems that grow quietly over time. Kitchen: Where Wear and Tear Adds Up Fast Kitchens combine water, electricity, heat, and daily use, which naturally increases the chances of things wearing down. Under-sink leaks, loose outlets, and aging fixtures are common early warning signs. Because many kitchen components are tucked away inside cabinets, small problems often stay hidden until damage spreads. Catching these issues early keeps repairs simpler, faster, and far less expensive. Bathrooms: Constant Moisture, Constant Risk Bathrooms deal with daily humidity, which puts ongoing stress on plumbing connections, fixtures, and surfaces. Slow drains, loose faucets, or subtle discoloration around fixtures are often the first signs that something needs attention. Moisture-related issues rarely resolve on their own. Addressing them early helps prevent mold growth, water damage, and structural problems that can disrupt your home and budget. Living Areas: Subtle Signals Matter In living rooms and bedrooms, maintenance issues often show up visually or electrically. Small wall cracks, flickering lights, or loose mounted items can indicate settling, wiring wear, or anchor problems inside the walls. Because these changes happen gradually, they’re easy to normalize. Paying attention early keeps fixes straightforward and prevents damage from spreading behind the scenes. Entryways and Hallways: High Traffic, High Stress Doors, frames, and walls in high-traffic areas experience constant movement and pressure. Sticking doors or shifting frames can be early signs of alignment issues or normal structural movement that needs adjustment. Handling these issues early keeps everyday wear from turning into long-term damage that affects multiple rooms. Laundry Areas: Small Spaces, Big Impact Laundry hookups are one of the most common sources of unnoticed leaks. Hoses, valves, and drains wear down slowly, and even minor drips can lead to significant water damage if left unchecked. Because laundry areas are often out of sight, problems here tend to go unnoticed longer than they should. Regular inspection and timely service can prevent costly flooring and wall repairs. Why a Room-by-Room Approach Works Breaking maintenance down by room helps homeowners feel more in control of their home. It creates a natural rhythm for checking key areas without feeling like everything needs attention at once. This approach also makes it easier to prioritize. Rooms with water, electricity, or heavy use naturally deserve more frequent attention than low-impact spaces. How This Strategy Helps With Budgeting Room-based maintenance spreads costs out over time instead of letting them pile up into emergency repairs. Small, planned fixes are easier to budget for than sudden, expensive problems. Homeowners who take this approach often find they spend less overall—not because they avoid repairs, but because they handle them at the right moment. Peace of Mind Comes From Knowing What’s Normal When you check your home consistently, you start to recognize what’s normal and what’s new. That awareness makes it easier to spot issues early and take action without panic. Instead of wondering whether something has “always been like that,” you can make informed decisions with confidence. Where Professional Help Makes the Biggest Difference Professional technicians understand how issues in one room can affect the rest of the home. A trained eye can spot early warning signs that aren’t obvious to homeowners. Puls technicians can inspect multiple areas efficiently and handle repairs across rooms and systems, making it easier to stay ahead of maintenance without juggling multiple service providers. Why Proactive Service Is Easier Than Reactive Repairs Emergency repairs often come with stress, scheduling pressure, and limited options. Proactive service allows homeowners to plan repairs around their schedule and avoid last-minute decisions. Calling a Puls tech early helps keep home maintenance predictable, manageable, and far less disruptive. Consistency Beats Perfection Home care isn’t about fixing everything at once or chasing an ideal standard. It’s about steady attention and timely action. A professional-first, room-by-room approach keeps your home running smoothly, protects its value, and helps you avoid costly surprises down the line.

  • 5 min read
  • 05/04/26

Staying on top of home maintenance doesn’t have to feel like a constant project. Most homeowners don’t need more reminders—they need a simpler way to organize what already matters. That’s where a monthly home maintenance calendar comes in. Instead of reacting to issues or juggling long checklists, a calendar-based approach creates a steady rhythm that keeps your home running smoothly throughout the year. Why Monthly Planning Feels Easier Big seasonal lists tend to show up all at once and demand attention when life is already busy. Monthly planning spreads things out so nothing feels urgent or overwhelming. When you know exactly what to focus on each month, home care becomes more predictable—and much easier to fit into real life. How the Puls Home Maintenance Calendar Is Structured The Puls home maintenance calendar is designed to reduce mental load, not add to it. Each month focuses on just three types of tasks, keeping things clear and manageable: Quick Wins Seasonal Must-Dos Call in a Pro Tasks This structure ensures that important maintenance stays on track without turning home care into a full-time job. Quick Wins: Light Tasks That Keep Things on Track Quick wins are small, low-effort actions that help maintain comfort and performance around the home. They’re designed to be fast, easy to remember, and satisfying to complete. These tasks help homeowners feel like they’re staying ahead without committing large amounts of time or energy. Seasonal Must-Dos: Staying in Sync With the Year Every season brings small shifts in how a home is used. Seasonal must-dos help align your home with those changes in a calm, planned way. Because these tasks are anticipated in advance, they don’t come with urgency or stress. They simply support comfort, efficiency, and everyday use as the year progresses. Call in a Pro: Built-In Professional Support Some maintenance tasks are best handled by a professional—not because something is wrong, but because it’s easier and more reliable that way. Each month includes at least one Call in a Pro task, giving homeowners a clear moment to bring in expert help and keep things handled properly without guesswork. Puls technicians fit seamlessly into this system, handling professional tasks efficiently and helping homeowners stay consistent without juggling multiple providers. Why This System Reduces Stress With only three task types to think about, maintenance stays focused and manageable. There’s no pressure to do everything at once, and no feeling that something critical is being missed. Homeowners following a calendar-based approach often feel more confident simply because they know what’s coming next. Consistency Without Perfection This system doesn’t rely on doing everything perfectly. Missing a task one month doesn’t derail anything—the calendar simply brings your focus back the next month. That flexibility is what makes monthly maintenance sustainable and realistic over time. A Calmer, More Organized Way to Care for Your Home When maintenance is predictable and supported, it stops feeling like a chore. It becomes part of the background—quietly supporting comfort, safety, and daily life. A monthly home maintenance calendar turns home care into a steady rhythm, and with Puls technicians available for professional tasks, staying on top of your home feels simple, not stressful.

  • 4 min read
  • 03/23/26