5 Simple Mistakes That Cause PC Overheating (And How to Fix Them)

If your computer is always running at high temperatures, and the fans are running at max speed, or crashing during gaming, overheating is a very common issue, and it is usually caused by simple oversights than broke hardware issues.

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Here a 5 common causes of High PC temperatures and how to fix them fast.

1. Plastic Film Left on the CPU Cooler base
   • 90% of all CPU coolers come with a clear protective plastic sticker over the copper base plate, if you forget to peel this off before installing the cooler, it creates a barrier that traps the heat directly on top of the CPU
   • How to fix: Remove the cooler, take off the plastic film, clean off the old thermal paste, and apply a brand new one, and install the cooler back in place.
2. Incorrect Fan Airflow Direction
   • Mistake: Installing all case fans as exhaust (pulling air out) or all as intake (blowing all the air in) creates poor static pressure.
   • Fix: Follow the standard airflow path: The bottom and front fans bring the cool air IN, and the rear fans should push hot air OUT
3. Dust Buildup in Heatsinks and Filters
   • Mistake: The Dust will begin to act like a insulating blanket over the radiator fins and mesh filters, not allowing airflow though the pc
   • Fix: Clean out the dust mesh filters every few moths using a soft brush or compressed air duster
4. Poor Thermal Paste Application
   • Mistake: If you apply too little thermal paste, it will leave mircoscopic air gaps between the CPU heat spreader and the cooler base.
   • Fix: Apply a small pea-sized dot of thermal place in the middle of the CPU before putting the cooler down evenly
5. Suffocated PC placement
   
   • Mistake: Placing your PC tower directly on top of carpet or inside a enclosed desk cabinet that stops the power supply and makes it very hard to get fresh air
   • Fix: Move your PC to a solid surface or one where the ventilations paths stay completely clear

My Recomendations

Best Value Case Fan

• ARCTIC P12 PWM 120mm (5-Pack)

Cleaning Kit

• WOLFBOX MegaFlow 50 Compressed Air Duster