How to Check If Your Computer Is Overheating
Heat leaves clues. Here is how to read them.
A computer that slows down, roars or switches itself off is often simply too hot. You can check without opening anything.
Step by step
- Feel the air coming from the vents. Hot air is normal; no air at all is not.
- Listen to the fan. Is it running? Is it rattling or screaming?
- Make sure the vents are clear, and that a laptop is on a hard, flat surface.
- Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc to open Task Manager, and choose the Performance tab.
- Look at the processor figure. If it sits near 100% while you are doing nothing, a program is working it hard.
- On the Processes tab, see which program is using the most, and close it if you do not need it.
What the result means
- Vents were blocked, and it is now cooler: problem solved.
- One program was using everything: closing or removing it may be all you need.
- It is hot and loud with nothing running: it needs cleaning inside. See fan and overheating repair.
Not sure? Call 020 7237 6805. We are happy to talk it through, and the assessment is free.
Questions and answers
How hot is too hot?
If it is uncomfortable to touch, or the computer shuts itself down, it is too hot.
Can I use a vacuum cleaner on the vents?
Better not. It can damage the fan. A short burst of compressed air from outside is safer.
Is a cooling pad worth it for a laptop?
It helps a little. Cleaning helps a lot.
More guides
- Check your Computer Before You Call
- Check your Hard Drive or SSD
- Check your Computer’s Memory
- Check your Laptop Battery and Charger
- Check your Internet and Wi-Fi
- Check your Computer for Viruses
- Back Up your Files Before a Repair
Let us take a look
The assessment is free, the price is fixed before we start, and every repair carries a 3-month warranty. Call 020 7237 6805, or tell us what is wrong and a technician will reply.