Identify & Resolve Overheating Issues
Overheating can cause performance throttling, unexpected shutdowns, and hardware damage. Follow these steps to diagnose and fix the problem.
Quick Checklist
- Check fan operation and dust build‑up.
- Verify BIOS/UEFI thermal settings.
- Monitor temperatures with a utility.
- Ensure proper airflow within the case.
- Confirm thermal paste integrity.
Step‑by‑Step Guide
1. Inspect Physical Hardware
Power off the system, unplug, and open the case. Look for dust on heatsinks, fans, and vents. Use compressed air to clean.
2. Verify Fan Operation
Boot the system and listen for fan noise. Use HWInfo or CPU‑Z to view fan RPM.
3. Monitor Temperatures
Run a stress test (e.g., Prime95) for 5‑10 minutes while monitoring CPU/GPU temps.
prime95 -t # Or use built‑in Windows tool: wmic /namespace:\\\\root\\wmi PATH MSAcpi_ThermalZoneTemperature get CurrentTemperature
4. Adjust BIOS/UEFI Settings
Enter BIOS (usually Del or F2 at boot). Set fan curves to “Performance” or “Turbo”. Enable “CPU thermal protection”.
5. Re‑apply Thermal Paste
If temps remain high, remove the cooler, clean old paste with isopropyl alcohol, and apply a pea‑sized amount of new paste.
Common FAQs
Why does my laptop overheat only under load?
Laptops have limited airflow. Check for blocked vents, update BIOS, and consider a cooling pad.
My GPU temperature spikes during games, what can I do?
Increase fan speed via MSI Afterburner, clean the GPU heatsink, and ensure the case has adequate intake/exhaust.