Computers are not naturally cool. They are machines that have many working components and can heat up with use. The more processing power you need to run programs and work through different elements, the hotter the components can run.

That’s why there are fans or liquid cooling in modern computing systems. But what happens when the heat becomes too much?

There are a few consequences that can occur, but not before you get a warning.

– The Warning

First and foremost, if your computer is shutting down completely, out of the blue, feel the case.

If the case is hot, you are getting the major warning computers give. They shut off, or  you may even get the “blue screen of death.” There’s a mechanism tied to all operating systems that signal a complete shut down if the heat index rises to an unsafe, unstable level.

If you do not heed this warning, you run the risk of cracking your motherboard. If the synapses crack, and the motherboard overheats, you will not be able to use your computer once cooled down.

Do not ignore this warning sign!

– Open the Case

If your computer is constantly overheating, it’s important that you open the case.

Open it up immediately, and let it air out. This will be the first thing that will help with cooling because your fan may not be enough. So open the case, and let it air out naturally.

Secondly, once the case is open, get an oscillating fan and prop it against the case. This can help you temporarily. With this open, you will be able to stop the heating process shortly.

– Clean the Fan

With the computer unplugged, the case open, look for debris and any dust that is in your computer.

Use a can of compressed air to remove any debris and dust that may be in place. Your fan may be locking up or lacking power.

To test your fan, spin it and see if it’s rotating smoothly. If not, lubricate it, or it may be time to replace your fan altogether.

– Delete and Reconfigure Computer Programs

Make sure that you look at the programs you have installed on your computer.

Delete programs that you do not use, free up space on your hard drive, and consolidate any free space.

Delete cache, internet files, and anything that could be using a lot of RAM. If you have 2 MB of RAM or less, it’s time to upgrade, if your computer allows.

By freeing up space, adding RAM, and reconfiguring hard drive space, you will reduce the stress that your computer’s processor is running with, and fix the heating problem.