Laptop Overheating: Causes and Fixes
Dust, thermal paste, and software — how to cool down a hot laptop.
- Laptop
- By Ray Berro, Tech4Service
Heat is normal under load, but constant hot surfaces, loud fans, and sudden shutdowns mean something needs attention.
Dust in the vents
Compressed air through the exhaust vents can help — never blow into the intake. Heavy buildup needs internal cleaning; we disassemble, clean fans and heatsinks, and reapply thermal paste where appropriate.
Dried thermal paste
After 3–5 years, thermal paste between the CPU and heatsink dries out. Replacing it can drop temperatures 15–25°C. This is a common fix for gaming laptops and older MacBooks.
Background processes
Check Task Manager (Windows) or Activity Monitor (Mac) for runaway processes. Browser tabs with video, crypto miners, and failed updates can peg the CPU at 100%.
Hardware failure
A failing fan or blocked heat pipe won't be fixed by software alone. If the machine shuts down under load or the fan screams at idle, book a diagnostic before permanent damage occurs.
Common Questions
When should I stop troubleshooting and book a repair?
If the problem appeared suddenly, involves hardware sounds (clicking, grinding), liquid damage, or persists after safe software steps — book a diagnostic. We'll confirm the fix and price before work begins.
How much does professional repair cost?
Most repairs fall in the $89–$250 range after diagnostics. See our pricing page or book a free basic diagnostic on most drop-off repairs.
Rather leave it to a pro?
Book a diagnostic — we'll confirm the fix, price, and timeline. 30-day labour warranty on completed repairs.