You’d think winter would mean cooler computers, right? But even when it’s freezing outside, your laptop can still overheat and when it does, it slows down, crashes, or sounds like it’s trying to take off 😤💨
At Ballarat Tech Help, we see a surprising spike in overheating issues during winter. Here’s why it happens and what you can do to keep your devices running cool.
Heating and Blankets = Blocked Airflow
The issue: Many people use laptops on beds, couches, or under blankets especially during cold weather. These soft surfaces block the laptop’s vents, trapping heat.
The fix:
- Always place your laptop on a hard, flat surface (a tray table or laptop stand is ideal)
- Avoid using it directly on your doona or lap without a stand
- Invest in a cooling pad if you use your laptop for long stretches
👉 Related: Why Your Laptop Fan Is Loud (and How to Fix It)
Dust Buildup and Fan Fatigue
The issue: If your laptop hasn’t been cleaned in a while, dust inside the vents makes it hard for fans to do their job no matter the season.
The fix:
- Use compressed air to gently blow out the vents (never vacuum)
- Bring it in for a professional internal clean if it’s still running hot
💡 A dusted laptop = quieter fan + longer lifespan.
Overheating from Background Tasks
The issue: Winter often means more time indoors and more time on your computer. Streaming, Zoom calls, heavy browsing, and gaming all heat up your device.
The fix:
- Close unused apps and tabs
- Restart your laptop weekly to clear temporary files
- Check for software updates and malware
👉 Also see: 5 Easy Fixes for a Slow Laptop
Signs Your Laptop Is Overheating
Watch out for:
- Loud fans that won’t settle down
- Random shutdowns or freezes
- Device feels hot to the touch (especially underneath)
- Apps slowing or stalling
👉 Related: What to Do When Your Computer Freezes
If you’re seeing these signs often, don’t ignore them it can damage internal components long term.
Need Help Cooling Things Down?
We can:
- Clean your laptop’s vents and fans
- Check for hardware issues causing heat build-up
- Suggest upgrades or cooling solutions
📍 Based in Ballarat, we help locals keep their tech healthy year-round.
📞 Call Ballarat Tech Help and let’s stop your laptop from overheating before it melts your productivity.
