Dell portable system heat issue or the system is overheating.
Summary: Troubleshooting steps to resolve heat issues with your Dell Laptop
What is Normal System Heat?
Systems can become warm to the touch during usage when -
- Using for longer than 10-15 minutes.
- Watching a DVD/Blu-ray.
- Streaming online video.
- Watching or Interacting with Flash Content.
- Playing Video Games or Online Games.
- Using near a heat source or in a hot environment (including direct sunlight)
Fan speed and noise may increase or decrease dynamically in response to changes in the temperature of the system.
What symptoms will I experience if my system is overheating?
- Random Shutdowns
- System Locking up
- System Freezing
- Random Reboots
Tips for Proper Usage
- Dell does not recommend placing portable systems directly on your lap. Due to reductions in the thickness of modern portable systems and increases in performance, heat transfer can become an issue.
- NOTE: During normal operation, the temperature of the bottom of a portable system may exceed comfortable levels for sustained contact. It is possible that skin irritation could result from prolonged contact to the system chassis.
- Using a portable system (Laptop) on a hard, flat, non-cloth surface will increase airflow and reduce heat from underneath and inside the system.
- Using the portable system on a blanket, pillow, or other type of cloth will cover up the fan and disrupt airflow. This will cause the system to overheat and can cause permanent damage.
- The recommended general room temperature for reliable operation of the system is 0°C to 35°C (32°F to 95°F) with a humidity level no greater than 90%. For specific environmental usage temperatures for your system, refer to your User's Guide or Setup Guide.
- Use canned compressed air to clean the vents on a regular basis. This will remove accumulated dust, hair etc.
- Using a laptop cooling pad can decrease heat and increase performance. Laptop cooling pads generally utilize fans that supplement the system fans and ensure optimal airflow is maintained.