Originally Posted by
lessthanzero
...
Loose plugs is my # 1, but I have also had power in my seat fail, power in my row fail, power randomly failing for half of J, etc. My chargers are actually quite popular barter instruments on long flights.
I think many airlines (maybe UA too) ban use of power banks while onboard. So even if the in-seat power did not work, you still wouldn't be allowed.
As for loose plugs, I usually use a foreign adapter (pretty much any country's plugs are better than ours) and/or I use a 1ft extension cord so that the weight of my brick isnt pulling on it.