{"id":21372,"date":"2023-01-06T14:20:29","date_gmt":"2023-01-06T13:20:29","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/g100.us\/?p=21372"},"modified":"2023-05-05T16:08:41","modified_gmt":"2023-05-05T14:08:41","slug":"how-to-stop-cpu-overheating","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/g100.us\/how-to-stop-cpu-overheating\/","title":{"rendered":"10 Ways to Stop a CPU From Overheating [Ranked]"},"content":{"rendered":"<div id=\"ez-toc-container\" class=\"ez-toc-v2_0_39 counter-hierarchy ez-toc-counter ez-toc-container-direction\">\n<p class=\"ez-toc-title\">TABLE OF CONTENTS<\/p>\n<label for=\"ez-toc-cssicon-toggle-item-668441ef4335b\" class=\"cssicon\"><span style=\"display: flex;align-items: center;width: 35px;height: 30px;justify-content: center;direction:ltr;\"><svg style=\"fill: #7f11e0;color:#7f11e0\" class=\"list-377408\" width=\"20px\" height=\"20px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\"><path d=\"M6 6H4v2h2V6zm14 0H8v2h12V6zM4 11h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2zM4 16h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2z\" fill=\"currentColor\" \/><\/svg><svg style=\"fill: #7f11e0;color:#7f11e0\" class=\"arrow-unsorted-368013\" width=\"10px\" height=\"10px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" version=\"1.2\" baseProfile=\"tiny\"><path d=\"M18.2 9.3l-6.2-6.3-6.2 6.3c-.2.2-.3.4-.3.7s.1.5.3.7c.2.2.4.3.7.3h11c.3 0 .5-.1.7-.3.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7zM5.8 14.7l6.2 6.3 6.2-6.3c.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7c-.2-.2-.4-.3-.7-.3h-11c-.3 0-.5.1-.7.3-.2.2-.3.5-.3.7s.1.5.3.7z\" \/><\/svg><\/span><\/label><label for=\"ez-toc-cssicon-toggle-item-668441ef4335b\" class=\"cssiconcheckbox\">1<\/label><input type=\"checkbox\" id=\"ez-toc-cssicon-toggle-item-668441ef4335b\" checked><nav><ul class=\"ez-toc-list ez-toc-list-level-1 \"><li class=\"ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2\"><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-1\" href=\"https:\/\/g100.us\/how-to-stop-cpu-overheating\/#Why_is_My_CPU_Overheating\" title=\"Why is My CPU Overheating?\">Why is My CPU Overheating?<\/a><\/li><li class=\"ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2\"><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-2\" href=\"https:\/\/g100.us\/how-to-stop-cpu-overheating\/#Signs_Your_CPU_is_Overheating\" title=\"Signs Your CPU is Overheating\">Signs Your CPU is Overheating<\/a><\/li><li class=\"ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2\"><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-3\" href=\"https:\/\/g100.us\/how-to-stop-cpu-overheating\/#How_to_Stop_a_CPU_From_Overheating_10_Common_Fixes_Ranked\" title=\"How to Stop a CPU From Overheating: 10 Common Fixes Ranked\">How to Stop a CPU From Overheating: 10 Common Fixes Ranked<\/a><ul class=\"ez-toc-list-level-3\"><li class=\"ez-toc-heading-level-3\"><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-4\" href=\"https:\/\/g100.us\/how-to-stop-cpu-overheating\/#1_Close_Programs_with_High_CPU_Usage\" title=\"1. Close Programs with High CPU Usage\">1. Close Programs with High CPU Usage<\/a><\/li><li class=\"ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3\"><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-5\" href=\"https:\/\/g100.us\/how-to-stop-cpu-overheating\/#2_Improve_Airflow\" title=\"2. Improve Airflow\">2. Improve Airflow<\/a><\/li><li class=\"ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3\"><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-6\" href=\"https:\/\/g100.us\/how-to-stop-cpu-overheating\/#3_Inspect_the_Fans_and_Vents\" title=\"3. Inspect the Fans and Vents\">3. Inspect the Fans and Vents<\/a><\/li><li class=\"ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3\"><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-7\" href=\"https:\/\/g100.us\/how-to-stop-cpu-overheating\/#4_Check_CPUs_Heatsink_and_Reapply_Thermal_Paste\" title=\"4. Check CPU\u2019s Heatsink and Reapply Thermal Paste\">4. Check CPU\u2019s Heatsink and Reapply Thermal Paste<\/a><\/li><li class=\"ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3\"><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-8\" href=\"https:\/\/g100.us\/how-to-stop-cpu-overheating\/#5_Scan_for_Malware\" title=\"5. Scan for Malware\">5. Scan for Malware<\/a><\/li><li class=\"ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3\"><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-9\" href=\"https:\/\/g100.us\/how-to-stop-cpu-overheating\/#6_Adjust_the_Power_Option\" title=\"6. Adjust the Power Option\">6. Adjust the Power Option<\/a><\/li><li class=\"ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3\"><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-10\" href=\"https:\/\/g100.us\/how-to-stop-cpu-overheating\/#7_Stop_Overclocking_the_CPU\" title=\"7. Stop Overclocking the CPU\">7. Stop Overclocking the CPU<\/a><\/li><li class=\"ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3\"><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-11\" href=\"https:\/\/g100.us\/how-to-stop-cpu-overheating\/#8_Check_for_Updates\" title=\"8. Check for Updates\">8. Check for Updates<\/a><\/li><li class=\"ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3\"><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-12\" href=\"https:\/\/g100.us\/how-to-stop-cpu-overheating\/#9_Adjust_CPU_Fan_Speed_in_BIOS\" title=\"9. Adjust CPU Fan Speed in BIOS\">9. Adjust CPU Fan Speed in BIOS<\/a><\/li><li class=\"ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3\"><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-13\" href=\"https:\/\/g100.us\/how-to-stop-cpu-overheating\/#10_Invest_in_a_New_CPU_Cooler\" title=\"10. Invest in a New CPU Cooler\">10. Invest in a New CPU Cooler<\/a><\/li><li class=\"ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3\"><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-14\" href=\"https:\/\/g100.us\/how-to-stop-cpu-overheating\/#Additional_Tips\" title=\"Additional Tips\">Additional Tips<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class=\"ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2\"><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-15\" href=\"https:\/\/g100.us\/how-to-stop-cpu-overheating\/#FAQ\" title=\"FAQ\">FAQ<\/a><ul class=\"ez-toc-list-level-3\"><li class=\"ez-toc-heading-level-3\"><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-16\" href=\"https:\/\/g100.us\/how-to-stop-cpu-overheating\/#What_happens_if_a_CPU_Overheats\" title=\"What happens if a CPU Overheats?\">What happens if a CPU Overheats?<\/a><\/li><li class=\"ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3\"><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-17\" href=\"https:\/\/g100.us\/how-to-stop-cpu-overheating\/#Is_150%C2%B0F_Too_Hot_for_a_CPU\" title=\"Is 150\u00b0F Too Hot for a CPU?\">Is 150\u00b0F Too Hot for a CPU?<\/a><\/li><li class=\"ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3\"><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-18\" href=\"https:\/\/g100.us\/how-to-stop-cpu-overheating\/#How_to_Prevent_the_CPU_From_Overheating\" title=\"How to Prevent the CPU From Overheating?\">How to Prevent the CPU From Overheating?<\/a><\/li><li class=\"ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3\"><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-19\" href=\"https:\/\/g100.us\/how-to-stop-cpu-overheating\/#Is_CPU_Overheating_Normal\" title=\"Is CPU Overheating Normal?\">Is CPU Overheating Normal?<\/a><\/li><li class=\"ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3\"><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-20\" href=\"https:\/\/g100.us\/how-to-stop-cpu-overheating\/#How_Long_Will_an_Overheating_CPU_Last\" title=\"How Long Will an Overheating CPU Last?\">How Long Will an Overheating CPU Last?<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class=\"ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2\"><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-21\" href=\"https:\/\/g100.us\/how-to-stop-cpu-overheating\/#Over_to_You\" title=\"Over to You\">Over to You<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/nav><\/div>\n<p>The Central Processing Unit (CPU) is known as the brain of your computer for a reason: It\u2019s responsible for processing and executing the instructions that come from your operating system, software, and other hardware components.<\/p>\n<p>When your CPU overheats, a whole range of problems can occur, from stuttering, crashes, random shutdowns, and the dreaded blue screen of death, to <a href=\"https:\/\/g100.us\/thermal-throttling-guide\/\">performance reduction caused by thermal-throttling<\/a>.<\/p>\n<p>If the heat isn\u2019t dealt with, it can even shorten your CPU\u2019s lifespan and lead to permanent damage.<\/p>\n<p>Keeping your CPU cool will ensure it performs well for years to come.<\/p>\n<p>Below, I\u2019ve gathered 10 effective ways to stop your CPU from overheating. But first, let\u2019s discuss what exactly causes a CPU to overheat.<\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Why_is_My_CPU_Overheating\"><\/span>Why is My CPU Overheating?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>A CPU can overheat for several reasons. Here's what those reasons look like when broken down into their most basic elements:<\/p>\n<ol>\n<li>The CPU is <em><strong>generating<\/strong> <\/em>too much heat<\/li>\n<li>The CPU Cooler isn't capable of <em><strong>reducing<\/strong> <\/em>the CPU's heat sufficiently<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<p>So far, so good. The above seems quite logical, right? It seems we have two main options to tackle an overheating CPU.<\/p>\n<p>The first is to <strong>reduce the heat a CPU is generating itself<\/strong>. And the second is to <strong>increase the cooler's capability to decrease temperature<\/strong>.<\/p>\n<p>Before we can figure out how to tackle those two, let's take a look at what causes the above two main reasons of CPU overheating to occur.<\/p>\n<p>The main cause of why a CPU heats up is electric resistance inside its circuits due to <em><strong>utilization. <\/strong><\/em>It is normal for a CPU to be utilized; after all, that's what it's built for! But things can get out of hand <a href=\"https:\/\/g100.us\/fix-high-cpu-usage\/\">if it is utilized too <em>strongly<\/em><\/a> and over long periods of time.<\/p>\n<p>Here are some things that utilize a CPU strongly and heat it up fast:<\/p>\n<ol>\n<li><strong>Tasks that you're <span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\">unaware<\/span> of<\/strong>, e.g.: Malware, outdated drivers and background tasks that drive up CPU-utilization<\/li>\n<li><strong>Tasks that you are <span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\">aware<\/span> of and actively initiate<\/strong>, e.g.: Sustained Multi-core workloads like Rendering or Gaming<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<p>That first one is something you should fix as fast as possible, but the second one is something you <em><strong>want<\/strong> <\/em>to do, right? So instead of getting rid of the (2nd) task or workload (and lose your capability of work or fun), you want the CPU to be able to cope with the heat better.<\/p>\n<p>This brings us to our second reason why a CPU heats up: insufficient cooling \/ dissipation of the CPU's heat.<\/p>\n<p>Here are the reasons for insufficient cooling of a CPU:<\/p>\n<ol>\n<li>Limited airflow into your PC case<\/li>\n<li>Insufficient airflow of the CPU Cooler<\/li>\n<li>Insufficient CPU cooler (the radiator and fans aren't strong enough for your type of CPU)<\/li>\n<li>Poorly applied (or dried) thermal paste<\/li>\n<li>Overclocked CPU (this can multiply all of the above)<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<p>So, while you <em><strong>want<\/strong> <\/em>to utilize your CPU (that's what it's made for!), you want to utilize it only with tasks you control, and you want to maximize the cooling capacity to keep the CPU as cool as possible.<\/p>\n<p>Great! Let's continue:<\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Signs_Your_CPU_is_Overheating\"><\/span>Signs Your CPU is Overheating<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>A CPU can run safely at temperatures between 104\u00b0F\u2013158\u00b0F (40\u201370\u00b0C).<\/p>\n<p>Some intensive tasks, such as gaming or 3D rendering, can push the temperature up to 176\u00b0F (80\u00b0C), though <a href=\"https:\/\/g100.us\/cpu-temperature-guide\/\">this is still safe as long as this isn\u2019t kept up for a sustained period<\/a>.<\/p>\n<p>If your CPU\u2019s temperature hits above 180\u00b0F (82\u00b0C), this is when <a href=\"https:\/\/g100.us\/thermal-throttling-guide\/\">throttling<\/a> \u2014 significantly reduced clock speed \u2014 and serious damage (where your CPU stops working entirely) can occur.<\/p>\n<p><noscript><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-21391\" src=\"https:\/\/g100.us\/wp-content\/uploads\/media\/2023\/01\/What-is-Thermal-Throttling.jpg\" alt=\"What is Thermal Throttling\" width=\"2048\" height=\"1080\" srcset=\"https:\/\/g100.us\/wp-content\/uploads\/media\/2023\/01\/What-is-Thermal-Throttling.jpg 2048w, https:\/\/g100.us\/wp-content\/uploads\/media\/2023\/01\/What-is-Thermal-Throttling-300x158.jpg 300w, https:\/\/g100.us\/wp-content\/uploads\/media\/2023\/01\/What-is-Thermal-Throttling-1024x540.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/g100.us\/wp-content\/uploads\/media\/2023\/01\/What-is-Thermal-Throttling-768x405.jpg 768w, https:\/\/g100.us\/wp-content\/uploads\/media\/2023\/01\/What-is-Thermal-Throttling-1536x810.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 2048px) 100vw, 2048px\"><\/noscript><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-21391 lazyload\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns%3D%22http%3A%2F%2Fwww.w3.org%2F2000%2Fsvg%22%20viewBox%3D%220%200%202048%201080%22%3E%3C%2Fsvg%3E\" alt=\"What is Thermal Throttling\" width=\"2048\" height=\"1080\" srcset=\"data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns%3D%22http%3A%2F%2Fwww.w3.org%2F2000%2Fsvg%22%20viewBox%3D%220%200%202048%201080%22%3E%3C%2Fsvg%3E 2048w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 2048px) 100vw, 2048px\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/g100.us\/wp-content\/uploads\/media\/2023\/01\/What-is-Thermal-Throttling.jpg 2048w, https:\/\/g100.us\/wp-content\/uploads\/media\/2023\/01\/What-is-Thermal-Throttling-300x158.jpg 300w, https:\/\/g100.us\/wp-content\/uploads\/media\/2023\/01\/What-is-Thermal-Throttling-1024x540.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/g100.us\/wp-content\/uploads\/media\/2023\/01\/What-is-Thermal-Throttling-768x405.jpg 768w, https:\/\/g100.us\/wp-content\/uploads\/media\/2023\/01\/What-is-Thermal-Throttling-1536x810.jpg 1536w\" data-src=\"https:\/\/g100.us\/wp-content\/uploads\/media\/2023\/01\/What-is-Thermal-Throttling.jpg\"><\/p>\n<p>Warning signs of an overheating CPU include:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Sluggish, slow performance<\/li>\n<li>CPU clock-speed throttling<\/li>\n<li>Excessive fan noise that doesn\u2019t lessen even over long periods of time<\/li>\n<li>Crashes<\/li>\n<li>System suddenly shuts down<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>You can also <a href=\"https:\/\/g100.us\/check-monitor-cpu-temperature\/\">test the temperature of your CPU<\/a> using third-party software, such as <a href=\"https:\/\/www.alcpu.com\/CoreTemp\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Core Temp<\/a> or<a href=\"https:\/\/nzxt.com\/software\/cam\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"> NZXT's CAM<\/a>. Both are easy to use.<\/p>\n<div id=\"attachment_21392\" style=\"width: 1344px\" class=\"wp-caption alignnone\"><noscript><img aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-21392\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-21392\" src=\"https:\/\/g100.us\/wp-content\/uploads\/media\/2023\/01\/NZXT-CAM.jpg\" alt=\"NZXT CAM\" width=\"1344\" height=\"754\" srcset=\"https:\/\/g100.us\/wp-content\/uploads\/media\/2023\/01\/NZXT-CAM.jpg 1344w, https:\/\/g100.us\/wp-content\/uploads\/media\/2023\/01\/NZXT-CAM-300x168.jpg 300w, https:\/\/g100.us\/wp-content\/uploads\/media\/2023\/01\/NZXT-CAM-1024x574.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/g100.us\/wp-content\/uploads\/media\/2023\/01\/NZXT-CAM-768x431.jpg 768w, https:\/\/g100.us\/wp-content\/uploads\/media\/2023\/01\/NZXT-CAM-825x464.jpg 825w, https:\/\/g100.us\/wp-content\/uploads\/media\/2023\/01\/NZXT-CAM-420x236.jpg 420w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1344px) 100vw, 1344px\"><\/noscript><img aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-21392\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-21392 lazyload\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns%3D%22http%3A%2F%2Fwww.w3.org%2F2000%2Fsvg%22%20viewBox%3D%220%200%201344%20754%22%3E%3C%2Fsvg%3E\" alt=\"NZXT CAM\" width=\"1344\" height=\"754\" srcset=\"data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns%3D%22http%3A%2F%2Fwww.w3.org%2F2000%2Fsvg%22%20viewBox%3D%220%200%201344%20754%22%3E%3C%2Fsvg%3E 1344w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1344px) 100vw, 1344px\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/g100.us\/wp-content\/uploads\/media\/2023\/01\/NZXT-CAM.jpg 1344w, https:\/\/g100.us\/wp-content\/uploads\/media\/2023\/01\/NZXT-CAM-300x168.jpg 300w, https:\/\/g100.us\/wp-content\/uploads\/media\/2023\/01\/NZXT-CAM-1024x574.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/g100.us\/wp-content\/uploads\/media\/2023\/01\/NZXT-CAM-768x431.jpg 768w, https:\/\/g100.us\/wp-content\/uploads\/media\/2023\/01\/NZXT-CAM-825x464.jpg 825w, https:\/\/g100.us\/wp-content\/uploads\/media\/2023\/01\/NZXT-CAM-420x236.jpg 420w\" data-src=\"https:\/\/g100.us\/wp-content\/uploads\/media\/2023\/01\/NZXT-CAM.jpg\"><p id=\"caption-attachment-21392\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">Image Credit: <a href=\"https:\/\/nzxt.com\/software\/cam\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">NZXT<\/a><\/p><\/div>\n<p>Core Temp allows you to keep track of each CPU core\u2019s temperature, while NZXT Cam provides additional information, like the clock speed and load.<\/p>\n<p>It\u2019s a good idea to first test the temperature with normal use, such as when performing daily tasks, then to check the temperature again while <a href=\"https:\/\/g100.us\/cinebench-r23-scores-updated-results\/\">running a benchmark such as Cinebench R23<\/a>. This will give you an in-depth insight into how your CPU is coping with the heat.<\/p>\n<p>Be warned that a stress test or benchmark run does put your device under a heavy load. If your CPU is already struggling with heat when you\u2019re carrying out daily tasks, you should avoid performing a stress test.<\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"How_to_Stop_a_CPU_From_Overheating_10_Common_Fixes_Ranked\"><\/span>How to Stop a CPU From Overheating: 10 Common Fixes Ranked<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>So, what if you've noticed some of the telltale signs that your CPU might be overheating? Let's take a look at the 10 most effective ways to mitigate overheating.<\/p>\n<p>Most of these fixes are relatively easy to implement, though some, such as reapplying thermal paste, should only be carried out by experienced users.<\/p>\n<p>If you\u2019re not comfortable diving into your computer\u2019s hardware, always seek out a professional for assistance.<\/p>\n<p>You can also ask our Experts <a href=\"https:\/\/g100.us\/forum\">on the Forum<\/a> or in the <a href=\"#comments\">comments<\/a> below the article, we\u2019re happy to help out! \ud83d\ude42<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"1_Close_Programs_with_High_CPU_Usage\"><\/span>1. Close Programs with High CPU Usage<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Having too many programs open simultaneously can drive up your CPU's utilization. Even if you don\u2019t think you have lots of programs open, there are plenty of background tasks that are automatically launched at startup.<\/p>\n<p>You can identify and close high CPU usage programs in the Windows \u201cTask Manager,\u201d under the processes tab. Here\u2019s how:<\/p>\n<ol>\n<li>Press CTRL + Shift + ESC simultaneously to launch \u201cTask Manager.\u201d<\/li>\n<li>In the \u201cProcesses\u201d tab, identify unnecessary programs and background tasks with high CPU usage (Sort by CPU Column).<\/li>\n<li>Click on the desired program or task, and select \u201cEnd Task\u201d to close it. Repeat for each one.<\/li>\n<li>Test your CPU\u2019s temperature again to see if this has made a difference.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<p><noscript><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"img-with-border alignnone wp-image-21373\" src=\"https:\/\/g100.us\/wp-content\/uploads\/media\/2023\/01\/windows-task-manager.png\" alt=\"Windows Task Manager\" width=\"947\" height=\"721\" srcset=\"https:\/\/g100.us\/wp-content\/uploads\/media\/2023\/01\/windows-task-manager.png 947w, https:\/\/g100.us\/wp-content\/uploads\/media\/2023\/01\/windows-task-manager-300x228.png 300w, https:\/\/g100.us\/wp-content\/uploads\/media\/2023\/01\/windows-task-manager-768x585.png 768w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 947px) 100vw, 947px\"><\/noscript><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"img-with-border alignnone wp-image-21373 lazyload\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns%3D%22http%3A%2F%2Fwww.w3.org%2F2000%2Fsvg%22%20viewBox%3D%220%200%20947%20721%22%3E%3C%2Fsvg%3E\" alt=\"Windows Task Manager\" width=\"947\" height=\"721\" srcset=\"data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns%3D%22http%3A%2F%2Fwww.w3.org%2F2000%2Fsvg%22%20viewBox%3D%220%200%20947%20721%22%3E%3C%2Fsvg%3E 947w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 947px) 100vw, 947px\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/g100.us\/wp-content\/uploads\/media\/2023\/01\/windows-task-manager.png 947w, https:\/\/g100.us\/wp-content\/uploads\/media\/2023\/01\/windows-task-manager-300x228.png 300w, https:\/\/g100.us\/wp-content\/uploads\/media\/2023\/01\/windows-task-manager-768x585.png 768w\" data-src=\"https:\/\/g100.us\/wp-content\/uploads\/media\/2023\/01\/windows-task-manager.png\"><\/p>\n<p>As a rough guideline, your total CPU usage should be around 2 to 5% when it\u2019s idle and under 30% when you\u2019re performing light tasks, such as surfing the web.<\/p>\n<p>Intensive tasks <a href=\"https:\/\/g100.us\/fix-high-cpu-usage\/\">can spike your CPU usage up to 60%, or sometimes even 100%.<\/a> This is normal as long as the heat is being dealt with properly.<\/p>\n<p>If your CPU usage is higher than expected (for example, if you\u2019re not doing anything demanding on the computer but the utilization is still near 100%), it\u2019s a clear indicator that there\u2019s an underlying issue, so keep on trying our other fixes below.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"2_Improve_Airflow\"><\/span>2. Improve Airflow<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Insufficient ventilation is one of the main reasons a CPU overheats, and it is no surprise why:<\/p>\n<p>If the heat is trapped within your device and can\u2019t escape (or no fresh air can make its way in), it\u2019ll cause your CPU to become extra toasty.<\/p>\n<p>There are several ways you can improve airflow, including:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Ensure your PC is located in a well-ventilated area that has plenty of airflows. Don\u2019t keep your device in a closed space, such as a desk cabinet.<\/li>\n<li>Keep your system\u2019s case closed. Despite common misconception, opening the case won\u2019t improve your airflow, and can actually have the opposite effect. This is because it exposes your system to dust and debris, both things that can clog up your vents, fans, and radiators.<\/li>\n<li>Remove any items stacked on top of the case.<\/li>\n<li>Ensure cables are tidy within the PC.<\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/g100.us\/how-many-case-fans\/\">Add more case fans<\/a>.<\/li>\n<li>Invest in a new chassis tailored to improving airflow.<\/li>\n<li>Be sure not to place laptops on soft surfaces (like a bed), especially if air vents are at the bottom<\/li>\n<li>Clean your intake and exhaust paths from any obstructions like dust or cables<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>A major cause of poor airflow is blocked vents or faulty fans, which brings us to our next point:<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"3_Inspect_the_Fans_and_Vents\"><\/span>3. Inspect the Fans and Vents<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Your PC\u2019s fans and air vents play a vital role in keeping internal temperatures low. If the air vents are blocked by debris, or the fans are faulty and not running properly, your CPU will overheat.<\/p>\n<p>Turn your PC off, unplug everything, and then open the chassis.<\/p>\n<p>Check if there\u2019s any dust or debris built up in the fans or vents. If there is, use a microfiber cloth and compressed air to clear it away. Be careful not to cause any damage to the fan blades.<\/p>\n<p><noscript><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-21393\" src=\"https:\/\/g100.us\/wp-content\/uploads\/media\/2023\/01\/PC-Case-Common-areas-for-dust-accumulation.jpg\" alt=\"PC Case - Common areas for dust accumulation\" width=\"2048\" height=\"1080\" srcset=\"https:\/\/g100.us\/wp-content\/uploads\/media\/2023\/01\/PC-Case-Common-areas-for-dust-accumulation.jpg 2048w, https:\/\/g100.us\/wp-content\/uploads\/media\/2023\/01\/PC-Case-Common-areas-for-dust-accumulation-300x158.jpg 300w, https:\/\/g100.us\/wp-content\/uploads\/media\/2023\/01\/PC-Case-Common-areas-for-dust-accumulation-1024x540.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/g100.us\/wp-content\/uploads\/media\/2023\/01\/PC-Case-Common-areas-for-dust-accumulation-768x405.jpg 768w, https:\/\/g100.us\/wp-content\/uploads\/media\/2023\/01\/PC-Case-Common-areas-for-dust-accumulation-1536x810.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 2048px) 100vw, 2048px\"><\/noscript><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-21393 lazyload\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns%3D%22http%3A%2F%2Fwww.w3.org%2F2000%2Fsvg%22%20viewBox%3D%220%200%202048%201080%22%3E%3C%2Fsvg%3E\" alt=\"PC Case - Common areas for dust accumulation\" width=\"2048\" height=\"1080\" srcset=\"data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns%3D%22http%3A%2F%2Fwww.w3.org%2F2000%2Fsvg%22%20viewBox%3D%220%200%202048%201080%22%3E%3C%2Fsvg%3E 2048w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 2048px) 100vw, 2048px\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/g100.us\/wp-content\/uploads\/media\/2023\/01\/PC-Case-Common-areas-for-dust-accumulation.jpg 2048w, https:\/\/g100.us\/wp-content\/uploads\/media\/2023\/01\/PC-Case-Common-areas-for-dust-accumulation-300x158.jpg 300w, https:\/\/g100.us\/wp-content\/uploads\/media\/2023\/01\/PC-Case-Common-areas-for-dust-accumulation-1024x540.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/g100.us\/wp-content\/uploads\/media\/2023\/01\/PC-Case-Common-areas-for-dust-accumulation-768x405.jpg 768w, https:\/\/g100.us\/wp-content\/uploads\/media\/2023\/01\/PC-Case-Common-areas-for-dust-accumulation-1536x810.jpg 1536w\" data-src=\"https:\/\/g100.us\/wp-content\/uploads\/media\/2023\/01\/PC-Case-Common-areas-for-dust-accumulation.jpg\"><\/p>\n<p>Dust tends to build up over time, so it\u2019s good practice to clear your PC every 6 to 12 months. We have a great article on properly dusting your PC <a href=\"https:\/\/g100.us\/how-to-clean-dust-from-your-pc\/\">here<\/a> if you'd like to follow along.<\/p>\n<p>You should also ensure that the cables are all properly connected, and aren\u2019t blocking the fans from moving. Sometimes the BIOS doesn\u2019t properly recognize the fans, (<a href=\"https:\/\/g100.us\/gpu-fans-not-spinning\/\">especially ones that aren't spinning<\/a>), so it may be worth <a href=\"https:\/\/g100.us\/how-to-reset-msi-bios\/\">resetting the BIOS<\/a> to see if it fixes the issue of non-functioning fans as well.<\/p>\n<p>Unfortunately, if the fans aren\u2019t spinning and none of the measures above have worked, it\u2019s likely that there\u2019s a fault with the fans, the motherboard, or your PSU.<\/p>\n<p>Replace each component one by one, starting with the fans, to figure out the root cause. Or, send your device in for repairs if it\u2019s covered under warranty. Also, make sure that the fans are receiving the appropriate voltage and are <a href=\"https:\/\/g100.us\/where-to-connect-fans-to-motherboard\/\">hooked up to the correct fan headers<\/a>.<\/p>\n<p>Of course: If your fans are set up in the BIOS to only spin up with increasing temperature, they might be waiting with ramping up until the CPU gets hot.<\/p>\n<p>Do check the Hardware Monitor in your BIOS to make sure this is the case. Even if the fans are spinning, you should double-check that their speed syncs to the  CPU's load.<\/p>\n<p>In other words, intensive tasks should cause an increase in fan speed, while light tasks should decrease the speed or stop the fans entirely.<\/p>\n<p>If the fans and vents look good, you\u2019ll next want to inspect your CPU, particularly its heatsink and thermal paste.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"4_Check_CPUs_Heatsink_and_Reapply_Thermal_Paste\"><\/span>4. Check CPU\u2019s Heatsink and Reapply Thermal Paste<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>The heatsink is a metallic component that helps to dissipate heat and keep a chip\u2019s temperature low.<\/p>\n<p>It\u2019s typically considered a passive cooling measure which is often improved by fans moving hot air away from the heatsink.<\/p>\n<p>Overheating issues are bound to occur if the CPU\u2019s heatsink isn\u2019t properly seated. It should be firm, secure, and not wiggle when you touch it.<\/p>\n<p>Old, dried-up thermal paste can also cause a CPU to overheat. Thermal paste improves the heat transfer between the CPU\u2019s integrated heat spreader (IHS) and the heatsink.<\/p>\n<p><noscript><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-21394\" src=\"https:\/\/g100.us\/wp-content\/uploads\/media\/2023\/01\/Thermal-paste-graphic.jpg\" alt=\"Thermal paste graphic\" width=\"2048\" height=\"1080\" srcset=\"https:\/\/g100.us\/wp-content\/uploads\/media\/2023\/01\/Thermal-paste-graphic.jpg 2048w, https:\/\/g100.us\/wp-content\/uploads\/media\/2023\/01\/Thermal-paste-graphic-300x158.jpg 300w, https:\/\/g100.us\/wp-content\/uploads\/media\/2023\/01\/Thermal-paste-graphic-1024x540.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/g100.us\/wp-content\/uploads\/media\/2023\/01\/Thermal-paste-graphic-768x405.jpg 768w, https:\/\/g100.us\/wp-content\/uploads\/media\/2023\/01\/Thermal-paste-graphic-1536x810.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 2048px) 100vw, 2048px\"><\/noscript><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-21394 lazyload\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns%3D%22http%3A%2F%2Fwww.w3.org%2F2000%2Fsvg%22%20viewBox%3D%220%200%202048%201080%22%3E%3C%2Fsvg%3E\" alt=\"Thermal paste graphic\" width=\"2048\" height=\"1080\" srcset=\"data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns%3D%22http%3A%2F%2Fwww.w3.org%2F2000%2Fsvg%22%20viewBox%3D%220%200%202048%201080%22%3E%3C%2Fsvg%3E 2048w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 2048px) 100vw, 2048px\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/g100.us\/wp-content\/uploads\/media\/2023\/01\/Thermal-paste-graphic.jpg 2048w, https:\/\/g100.us\/wp-content\/uploads\/media\/2023\/01\/Thermal-paste-graphic-300x158.jpg 300w, https:\/\/g100.us\/wp-content\/uploads\/media\/2023\/01\/Thermal-paste-graphic-1024x540.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/g100.us\/wp-content\/uploads\/media\/2023\/01\/Thermal-paste-graphic-768x405.jpg 768w, https:\/\/g100.us\/wp-content\/uploads\/media\/2023\/01\/Thermal-paste-graphic-1536x810.jpg 1536w\" data-src=\"https:\/\/g100.us\/wp-content\/uploads\/media\/2023\/01\/Thermal-paste-graphic.jpg\"><\/p>\n<p>Most thermal pastes maintain their quality <a href=\"https:\/\/g100.us\/how-long-does-thermal-paste-last\/\">for around 3 to 5 years<\/a>, though cheaper ones tend to dry up quickly and may have a shorter lifespan. If your thermal paste is over 5 years old, it likely needs to be replaced.<\/p>\n<p><noscript><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-21395\" src=\"https:\/\/g100.us\/wp-content\/uploads\/media\/2023\/01\/How-long-does-thermal-paste-last.jpg\" alt=\"How long does thermal paste last\" width=\"2048\" height=\"1080\" srcset=\"https:\/\/g100.us\/wp-content\/uploads\/media\/2023\/01\/How-long-does-thermal-paste-last.jpg 2048w, https:\/\/g100.us\/wp-content\/uploads\/media\/2023\/01\/How-long-does-thermal-paste-last-300x158.jpg 300w, https:\/\/g100.us\/wp-content\/uploads\/media\/2023\/01\/How-long-does-thermal-paste-last-1024x540.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/g100.us\/wp-content\/uploads\/media\/2023\/01\/How-long-does-thermal-paste-last-768x405.jpg 768w, https:\/\/g100.us\/wp-content\/uploads\/media\/2023\/01\/How-long-does-thermal-paste-last-1536x810.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 2048px) 100vw, 2048px\"><\/noscript><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-21395 lazyload\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns%3D%22http%3A%2F%2Fwww.w3.org%2F2000%2Fsvg%22%20viewBox%3D%220%200%202048%201080%22%3E%3C%2Fsvg%3E\" alt=\"How long does thermal paste last\" width=\"2048\" height=\"1080\" srcset=\"data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns%3D%22http%3A%2F%2Fwww.w3.org%2F2000%2Fsvg%22%20viewBox%3D%220%200%202048%201080%22%3E%3C%2Fsvg%3E 2048w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 2048px) 100vw, 2048px\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/g100.us\/wp-content\/uploads\/media\/2023\/01\/How-long-does-thermal-paste-last.jpg 2048w, https:\/\/g100.us\/wp-content\/uploads\/media\/2023\/01\/How-long-does-thermal-paste-last-300x158.jpg 300w, https:\/\/g100.us\/wp-content\/uploads\/media\/2023\/01\/How-long-does-thermal-paste-last-1024x540.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/g100.us\/wp-content\/uploads\/media\/2023\/01\/How-long-does-thermal-paste-last-768x405.jpg 768w, https:\/\/g100.us\/wp-content\/uploads\/media\/2023\/01\/How-long-does-thermal-paste-last-1536x810.jpg 1536w\" data-src=\"https:\/\/g100.us\/wp-content\/uploads\/media\/2023\/01\/How-long-does-thermal-paste-last.jpg\"><\/p>\n<p>Even if your thermal paste is brand new, it can still cause problems if you didn\u2019t apply it suboptimally, e.g. too much or too little. The paste should also be spread evenly so that no air pockets can form.<\/p>\n<p>Here\u2019s how to remove the CPU\u2019s heatsink and reapply the thermal paste safely:<\/p>\n<ol>\n<li>Run your computer for half an hour. This will help warm up the thermal paste and make it easier to remove.<\/li>\n<li>Turn off the computer and ensure all cables are unplugged. Don\u2019t forget to also unplug the CPU cooler\u2019s power cable.<\/li>\n<li>It\u2019s best to rotate your PC 90 degrees so it\u2019s lying down flat on its side with the motherboard at the bottom before removing the side panel.<\/li>\n<li>Loosen your CPU cooler\u2019s bolts or clips.<\/li>\n<li>Slowly twist the CPU cooler until it comes off. Only twist side to side, and never yank the cooler or pull it upwards. This can damage the CPU\u2019s pins and lead to permanent damage.<\/li>\n<li>Make sure the CPU is properly secured to its socket.<\/li>\n<li>Get a microfiber cloth and a suitable cleaning solution (99% isopropyl alcohol). Wipe away the old thermal paste from the heatsink and CPU\u2019s IHS.<\/li>\n<li>Using your new thermal paste, squeeze a pea-sized drop onto the center of the IHS. Don\u2019t spread the paste.<\/li>\n<li>Carefully place the heatsink back on the CPU. Make sure you keep it flat.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<p>Unfortunately, if the heatsink slips or moves during this process, you\u2019ll have to redo the process.<\/p>\n<p>There are three main types of thermal pastes available on the market: ceramic-based, carbon-based, and liquid metal. Each has its <a href=\"https:\/\/g100.us\/the-best-thermal-paste-for-your-needs-beginners-guide\/\">fair share of pros and cons<\/a>, though we recommend sticking to ceramic or carbon-based if you\u2019re a beginner.<\/p>\n<p>Be aware that certain CPUs may require slightly more thermal paste, like Intel\u2019s eight-core processors or AMD\u2019s large Threadripper CPUs.<\/p>\n<p>Here's an interesting Video by GamersNexus analyzing different methods of applying thermal paste:<\/p>\n<p><noscript><iframe title=\"\u201cToo Much Thermal Paste\u201d \u2013 Benchmark of Thermal Paste Quantity\" width=\"960\" height=\"540\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/EUWVVTY63hc?feature=oembed\" frameborder=\"0\" allow=\"accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share\" allowfullscreen><\/iframe><\/noscript><iframe title=\"\u201cToo Much Thermal Paste\u201d \u2013 Benchmark of Thermal Paste Quantity\" width=\"960\" height=\"540\" frameborder=\"0\" allow=\"accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share\" allowfullscreen data-src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/EUWVVTY63hc?feature=oembed\" class=\" lazyload\"><\/iframe><\/p>\n<p>Changing thermal paste really gets the sweat going! If that still didn't help, here's the next step you should try:<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"5_Scan_for_Malware\"><\/span>5. Scan for Malware<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Remember how we differentiated between <em>healthy<\/em> CPU utilization from tasks that <em>you control and are aware of<\/em>, and <em>unhealthy<\/em> utilization from tasks that utilize your CPU without you knowing or your control?<\/p>\n<p>Malware is such an unhealthy task that can wreak havoc on your device and cause your CPU to overheat. This is especially the case if it\u2019s running tasks that use up your CPU\u2019s performance, like mining cryptocurrency.<\/p>\n<p>Malware typically doesn't appear in the Task Manager, or if it does, it\u2019ll be disguised as another common task name. This can make it extremely hard to detect if malware has infected your device.<\/p>\n<p>That\u2019s why it\u2019s important to run a full virus scan on your PC. Windows Security has an integrated security scan, but you can also use third-party antivirus scanners such as <a href=\"https:\/\/www.malwarebytes.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Malwarebytes<\/a> that often catch more than the in-built Windows Security methods.<\/p>\n<p><noscript><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"img-with-border alignnone wp-image-21374\" src=\"https:\/\/g100.us\/wp-content\/uploads\/media\/2023\/01\/windows-security.png\" alt=\"Windows Security\" width=\"1275\" height=\"861\" srcset=\"https:\/\/g100.us\/wp-content\/uploads\/media\/2023\/01\/windows-security.png 1275w, https:\/\/g100.us\/wp-content\/uploads\/media\/2023\/01\/windows-security-300x203.png 300w, https:\/\/g100.us\/wp-content\/uploads\/media\/2023\/01\/windows-security-1024x692.png 1024w, https:\/\/g100.us\/wp-content\/uploads\/media\/2023\/01\/windows-security-768x519.png 768w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1275px) 100vw, 1275px\"><\/noscript><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"img-with-border alignnone wp-image-21374 lazyload\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns%3D%22http%3A%2F%2Fwww.w3.org%2F2000%2Fsvg%22%20viewBox%3D%220%200%201275%20861%22%3E%3C%2Fsvg%3E\" alt=\"Windows Security\" width=\"1275\" height=\"861\" srcset=\"data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns%3D%22http%3A%2F%2Fwww.w3.org%2F2000%2Fsvg%22%20viewBox%3D%220%200%201275%20861%22%3E%3C%2Fsvg%3E 1275w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1275px) 100vw, 1275px\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/g100.us\/wp-content\/uploads\/media\/2023\/01\/windows-security.png 1275w, https:\/\/g100.us\/wp-content\/uploads\/media\/2023\/01\/windows-security-300x203.png 300w, https:\/\/g100.us\/wp-content\/uploads\/media\/2023\/01\/windows-security-1024x692.png 1024w, https:\/\/g100.us\/wp-content\/uploads\/media\/2023\/01\/windows-security-768x519.png 768w\" data-src=\"https:\/\/g100.us\/wp-content\/uploads\/media\/2023\/01\/windows-security.png\"><\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"6_Adjust_the_Power_Option\"><\/span>6. Adjust the Power Option<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>A power option that prioritizes performance over keeping temperatures low can cause your CPU to heat up unnecessarily and throttle.<\/p>\n<p>Make sure that the Windows power option is set to the following configuration:<\/p>\n<ol>\n<li>Go to the Start menu and put \u201cControl Panel\u201d into the search bar.<\/li>\n<li>Click on the \u201cControl Panel,\u201d go to \u201cHardware &amp; Sound,\u201d and then select \u201cPower options.\u201d<\/li>\n<li>Set the power plan to \u201cBalanced.\u201d Then, click \u201cChange Plan Settings,\u201d<\/li>\n<li>Choose \u201cChange Advanced Power Settings.\u201d<\/li>\n<li>Click on \u201cProcessor Power Management\u201d and reduce the maximum processor state to 80-90%.<\/li>\n<li>Apply the changes.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<p><noscript><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"img-with-border alignnone wp-image-21375\" src=\"https:\/\/g100.us\/wp-content\/uploads\/media\/2023\/01\/windows-power-options.png\" alt=\"Windows Power Options\" width=\"1368\" height=\"726\" srcset=\"https:\/\/g100.us\/wp-content\/uploads\/media\/2023\/01\/windows-power-options.png 1368w, https:\/\/g100.us\/wp-content\/uploads\/media\/2023\/01\/windows-power-options-300x159.png 300w, https:\/\/g100.us\/wp-content\/uploads\/media\/2023\/01\/windows-power-options-1024x543.png 1024w, https:\/\/g100.us\/wp-content\/uploads\/media\/2023\/01\/windows-power-options-768x408.png 768w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1368px) 100vw, 1368px\"><\/noscript><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"img-with-border alignnone wp-image-21375 lazyload\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns%3D%22http%3A%2F%2Fwww.w3.org%2F2000%2Fsvg%22%20viewBox%3D%220%200%201368%20726%22%3E%3C%2Fsvg%3E\" alt=\"Windows Power Options\" width=\"1368\" height=\"726\" srcset=\"data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns%3D%22http%3A%2F%2Fwww.w3.org%2F2000%2Fsvg%22%20viewBox%3D%220%200%201368%20726%22%3E%3C%2Fsvg%3E 1368w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1368px) 100vw, 1368px\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/g100.us\/wp-content\/uploads\/media\/2023\/01\/windows-power-options.png 1368w, https:\/\/g100.us\/wp-content\/uploads\/media\/2023\/01\/windows-power-options-300x159.png 300w, https:\/\/g100.us\/wp-content\/uploads\/media\/2023\/01\/windows-power-options-1024x543.png 1024w, https:\/\/g100.us\/wp-content\/uploads\/media\/2023\/01\/windows-power-options-768x408.png 768w\" data-src=\"https:\/\/g100.us\/wp-content\/uploads\/media\/2023\/01\/windows-power-options.png\"><\/p>\n<p>The Balanced Power Plan will ensure the CPU's clock speed is reduced when the performance is not needed, keeping it cool when idle.<\/p>\n<p>Of course, if you\u2019ve overclocked your CPU, adjusting the power plan isn\u2019t going to make much difference. So, make sure you\u2026<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"7_Stop_Overclocking_the_CPU\"><\/span>7. Stop Overclocking the CPU<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>While overclocking boosts your CPU\u2019s clock speeds, it also heats it up considerably. It's best to refrain from manual overclocking unless you have extremely strong cooling and know what you're doing.<\/p>\n<p><noscript><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-21396\" src=\"https:\/\/g100.us\/wp-content\/uploads\/media\/2023\/01\/CPU-Overclocking.jpg\" alt=\"CPU Overclocking\" width=\"2048\" height=\"1080\" srcset=\"https:\/\/g100.us\/wp-content\/uploads\/media\/2023\/01\/CPU-Overclocking.jpg 2048w, https:\/\/g100.us\/wp-content\/uploads\/media\/2023\/01\/CPU-Overclocking-300x158.jpg 300w, https:\/\/g100.us\/wp-content\/uploads\/media\/2023\/01\/CPU-Overclocking-1024x540.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/g100.us\/wp-content\/uploads\/media\/2023\/01\/CPU-Overclocking-768x405.jpg 768w, https:\/\/g100.us\/wp-content\/uploads\/media\/2023\/01\/CPU-Overclocking-1536x810.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 2048px) 100vw, 2048px\"><\/noscript><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-21396 lazyload\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns%3D%22http%3A%2F%2Fwww.w3.org%2F2000%2Fsvg%22%20viewBox%3D%220%200%202048%201080%22%3E%3C%2Fsvg%3E\" alt=\"CPU Overclocking\" width=\"2048\" height=\"1080\" srcset=\"data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns%3D%22http%3A%2F%2Fwww.w3.org%2F2000%2Fsvg%22%20viewBox%3D%220%200%202048%201080%22%3E%3C%2Fsvg%3E 2048w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 2048px) 100vw, 2048px\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/g100.us\/wp-content\/uploads\/media\/2023\/01\/CPU-Overclocking.jpg 2048w, https:\/\/g100.us\/wp-content\/uploads\/media\/2023\/01\/CPU-Overclocking-300x158.jpg 300w, https:\/\/g100.us\/wp-content\/uploads\/media\/2023\/01\/CPU-Overclocking-1024x540.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/g100.us\/wp-content\/uploads\/media\/2023\/01\/CPU-Overclocking-768x405.jpg 768w, https:\/\/g100.us\/wp-content\/uploads\/media\/2023\/01\/CPU-Overclocking-1536x810.jpg 1536w\" data-src=\"https:\/\/g100.us\/wp-content\/uploads\/media\/2023\/01\/CPU-Overclocking.jpg\"><\/p>\n<p>You can stop overclocking by <a href=\"https:\/\/g100.us\/how-to-reset-msi-bios\/\">resetting your BIOS<\/a> to factory defaults.<\/p>\n<p>You can also try undervolting your CPU to reduce its temperature, though this will impact your device\u2019s performance, and the process can be difficult for beginners.<\/p>\n<p>You can learn more about undervolting <a href=\"https:\/\/www.howtogeek.com\/805771\/what-is-undervolting-gpu-or-cpu\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">here<\/a>.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"8_Check_for_Updates\"><\/span>8. Check for Updates<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Keeping your PC updated may potentially help to combat heat. This is because updates are often designed to fix bugs, patch vulnerabilities, and improve efficiency &amp; performance.<\/p>\n<p>Check your applications \u2014 like Chrome, your mail app, or typical daily used Software such as Adobe CC \u2014 and ensure each one is running the latest version. You can also check for Windows updates in the settings.<\/p>\n<ol>\n<li>Press \u201cI\u201d while holding down the Windows key to open up the settings.<\/li>\n<li>Go to \u201cWindows Update,\u201d then \u201cSecurity &amp; Update.\u201d<\/li>\n<li>Select \u201cCheck for updates\u201d and install the latest version if necessary.<\/li>\n<li>Restart your device.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<p><noscript><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"img-with-border alignnone wp-image-21376\" src=\"https:\/\/g100.us\/wp-content\/uploads\/media\/2023\/01\/windows-update.png\" alt=\"Windows update\" width=\"1205\" height=\"748\" srcset=\"https:\/\/g100.us\/wp-content\/uploads\/media\/2023\/01\/windows-update.png 1205w, https:\/\/g100.us\/wp-content\/uploads\/media\/2023\/01\/windows-update-300x186.png 300w, https:\/\/g100.us\/wp-content\/uploads\/media\/2023\/01\/windows-update-1024x636.png 1024w, https:\/\/g100.us\/wp-content\/uploads\/media\/2023\/01\/windows-update-768x477.png 768w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1205px) 100vw, 1205px\"><\/noscript><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"img-with-border alignnone wp-image-21376 lazyload\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns%3D%22http%3A%2F%2Fwww.w3.org%2F2000%2Fsvg%22%20viewBox%3D%220%200%201205%20748%22%3E%3C%2Fsvg%3E\" alt=\"Windows update\" width=\"1205\" height=\"748\" srcset=\"data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns%3D%22http%3A%2F%2Fwww.w3.org%2F2000%2Fsvg%22%20viewBox%3D%220%200%201205%20748%22%3E%3C%2Fsvg%3E 1205w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1205px) 100vw, 1205px\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/g100.us\/wp-content\/uploads\/media\/2023\/01\/windows-update.png 1205w, https:\/\/g100.us\/wp-content\/uploads\/media\/2023\/01\/windows-update-300x186.png 300w, https:\/\/g100.us\/wp-content\/uploads\/media\/2023\/01\/windows-update-1024x636.png 1024w, https:\/\/g100.us\/wp-content\/uploads\/media\/2023\/01\/windows-update-768x477.png 768w\" data-src=\"https:\/\/g100.us\/wp-content\/uploads\/media\/2023\/01\/windows-update.png\"><\/p>\n<p>Updated everything and still experiencing heat problems? Don\u2019t give up hope, there are a couple more fixes you can try, like adjusting the CPU fan speed in BIOS.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"9_Adjust_CPU_Fan_Speed_in_BIOS\"><\/span>9. Adjust CPU Fan Speed in BIOS<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>You can manually boost the CPU fan speed within your PC to help combat heat.<\/p>\n<p>To do so, you\u2019ll need to <a href=\"https:\/\/g100.us\/how-to-enter-bios\/\">access the BIOS<\/a>:<\/p>\n<ol>\n<li>Reboot your PC in BIOS mode. To do this, you need to restart while pressing the key specified by your manufacturer. It\u2019s typically F2 or F12.<\/li>\n<li>Once in the BIOS menu, find the CPU fan option. Again, the exact name can vary depending on your manufacturer, but it\u2019s often called \u201csmart fan,\u201d \u201cfan options,\u201d or \u201cHardware Monitor.\u201d\n<p><\/p><div id=\"attachment_21397\" style=\"width: 776px\" class=\"wp-caption alignnone\"><noscript><img aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-21397\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-21397\" src=\"https:\/\/g100.us\/wp-content\/uploads\/media\/2023\/01\/ASUS-Bios-CPU-fan.jpg\" alt=\"ASUS Bios CPU fan\" width=\"776\" height=\"415\" srcset=\"https:\/\/g100.us\/wp-content\/uploads\/media\/2023\/01\/ASUS-Bios-CPU-fan.jpg 776w, https:\/\/g100.us\/wp-content\/uploads\/media\/2023\/01\/ASUS-Bios-CPU-fan-300x160.jpg 300w, https:\/\/g100.us\/wp-content\/uploads\/media\/2023\/01\/ASUS-Bios-CPU-fan-768x411.jpg 768w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 776px) 100vw, 776px\"><\/noscript><img aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-21397\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-21397 lazyload\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns%3D%22http%3A%2F%2Fwww.w3.org%2F2000%2Fsvg%22%20viewBox%3D%220%200%20776%20415%22%3E%3C%2Fsvg%3E\" alt=\"ASUS Bios CPU fan\" width=\"776\" height=\"415\" srcset=\"data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns%3D%22http%3A%2F%2Fwww.w3.org%2F2000%2Fsvg%22%20viewBox%3D%220%200%20776%20415%22%3E%3C%2Fsvg%3E 776w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 776px) 100vw, 776px\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/g100.us\/wp-content\/uploads\/media\/2023\/01\/ASUS-Bios-CPU-fan.jpg 776w, https:\/\/g100.us\/wp-content\/uploads\/media\/2023\/01\/ASUS-Bios-CPU-fan-300x160.jpg 300w, https:\/\/g100.us\/wp-content\/uploads\/media\/2023\/01\/ASUS-Bios-CPU-fan-768x411.jpg 768w\" data-src=\"https:\/\/g100.us\/wp-content\/uploads\/media\/2023\/01\/ASUS-Bios-CPU-fan.jpg\"><p id=\"caption-attachment-21397\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">Image Credit: <a href=\"https:\/\/www.asus.com\/microsite\/motherboard\/Intel-Raptor-Lake-Z790-H770-B760\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">ASUS<\/a><\/p><\/div><\/li>\n<li>Set the CPU (and case) fan speeds to a mode that prioritizes cooling over keeping things quiet.<\/li>\n<li>Apply the changes and restart your device.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<p>Be aware that not every device has <a href=\"https:\/\/g100.us\/cpu-fan-rpm-guide\/\">the option to adjust fan speeds<\/a> in the BIOS. If this is the case, you can instead use third-party software like <a href=\"https:\/\/www.almico.com\/speedfan.php\" target=\"_blank\">SpeedFan<\/a>.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"10_Invest_in_a_New_CPU_Cooler\"><\/span>10. Invest in a New CPU Cooler<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>It\u2019s worth investing in a new CPU cooler, especially if your current one is old and none of the methods above have fixed your problem. Make sure your new cooler is powerful enough to cope with your everyday tasks.<\/p>\n<p>There are two primary types of CPU coolers: Air coolers and liquid coolers.<\/p>\n<p><noscript><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-21398\" src=\"https:\/\/g100.us\/wp-content\/uploads\/media\/2023\/01\/Types-of-CPU-Coolers.jpg\" alt=\"Types of CPU Coolers\" width=\"2048\" height=\"1080\" srcset=\"https:\/\/g100.us\/wp-content\/uploads\/media\/2023\/01\/Types-of-CPU-Coolers.jpg 2048w, https:\/\/g100.us\/wp-content\/uploads\/media\/2023\/01\/Types-of-CPU-Coolers-300x158.jpg 300w, https:\/\/g100.us\/wp-content\/uploads\/media\/2023\/01\/Types-of-CPU-Coolers-1024x540.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/g100.us\/wp-content\/uploads\/media\/2023\/01\/Types-of-CPU-Coolers-768x405.jpg 768w, https:\/\/g100.us\/wp-content\/uploads\/media\/2023\/01\/Types-of-CPU-Coolers-1536x810.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 2048px) 100vw, 2048px\"><\/noscript><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-21398 lazyload\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns%3D%22http%3A%2F%2Fwww.w3.org%2F2000%2Fsvg%22%20viewBox%3D%220%200%202048%201080%22%3E%3C%2Fsvg%3E\" alt=\"Types of CPU Coolers\" width=\"2048\" height=\"1080\" srcset=\"data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns%3D%22http%3A%2F%2Fwww.w3.org%2F2000%2Fsvg%22%20viewBox%3D%220%200%202048%201080%22%3E%3C%2Fsvg%3E 2048w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 2048px) 100vw, 2048px\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/g100.us\/wp-content\/uploads\/media\/2023\/01\/Types-of-CPU-Coolers.jpg 2048w, https:\/\/g100.us\/wp-content\/uploads\/media\/2023\/01\/Types-of-CPU-Coolers-300x158.jpg 300w, https:\/\/g100.us\/wp-content\/uploads\/media\/2023\/01\/Types-of-CPU-Coolers-1024x540.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/g100.us\/wp-content\/uploads\/media\/2023\/01\/Types-of-CPU-Coolers-768x405.jpg 768w, https:\/\/g100.us\/wp-content\/uploads\/media\/2023\/01\/Types-of-CPU-Coolers-1536x810.jpg 1536w\" data-src=\"https:\/\/g100.us\/wp-content\/uploads\/media\/2023\/01\/Types-of-CPU-Coolers.jpg\"><\/p>\n<p>Our <a href=\"https:\/\/g100.us\/air-vs-aio-coolers\">in-depth guide<\/a> on the topic can help you determine which cooling type is better suited to your needs.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Additional_Tips\"><\/span>Additional Tips<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Here, we\u2019ve gathered a few more tips that may help stop your CPU from overheating.<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Use a laptop cooling fan: <\/strong>If you\u2019re using a laptop, you can use <a href=\"https:\/\/g100.us\/laptop-cooling-pads\/\">a dedicated cooling fan<\/a> to improve the airflow.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Close browser tabs: <\/strong>Avoid having more than 5 browser tabs open simultaneously. Having dozens of browser tabs can overload your CPU and cause it to overheat.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Change the environment:<\/strong> A cool, well-ventilated environment will make it easier for your PC to combat the heat. Keep your device out of direct sunlight, use air conditioning, and keep curtains and windows closed during the day.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Remove the side panel of your case<\/strong>: Although we don't usually recommend this as it introduces dust into the case more easily and exposes the insides, if you have too few case fans or the inside of your case is too convoluted and obstructing airflow, removing the side panel <em>can<\/em> reduce temperatures. A better long-term solution, though, would certainly be to increase airflow with the case closed.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"FAQ\"><\/span>FAQ<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_happens_if_a_CPU_Overheats\"><\/span>What happens if a CPU Overheats?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>When your CPU overheats, it can cause performance issues, crashes, and sudden shutdowns. The CPU itself can also become damaged.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Is_150%C2%B0F_Too_Hot_for_a_CPU\"><\/span>Is 150\u00b0F Too Hot for a CPU?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>150\u00b0F is a safe temperature for a CPU and you\u2019re unlikely to experience any performance issues.<\/p>\n<p>However, if the CPU is running at 150\u00b0F when idle, it could be a sign of a potential problem. You should expect a CPU to be around 160\u00b0F under heavy load and 113\u00b0F under light load.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"How_to_Prevent_the_CPU_From_Overheating\"><\/span>How to Prevent the CPU From Overheating?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Closing unnecessary background tasks, cleaning dust, and improving airflow are all ways you can prevent the CPU from overheating. You should also keep the software updated.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Is_CPU_Overheating_Normal\"><\/span>Is CPU Overheating Normal?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>While it\u2019s normal for the CPU to get hot under heavy load, it isn\u2019t normal for it to overheat, especially if it\u2019s a regular occurrence.<\/p>\n<p>A CPU overheats when its temperature surpasses 180\u00b0F.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"How_Long_Will_an_Overheating_CPU_Last\"><\/span>How Long Will an Overheating CPU Last?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>A CPU that frequently overheats will have a significantly shorter lifespan than a CPU that hasn\u2019t been exposed to unsafe temperatures.<\/p>\n<p>Most overheating CPUs die within a year if the underlying issue isn\u2019t fixed.<\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Over_to_You\"><\/span>Over to You<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>We hope our methods above have helped you combat the heat for good. Your CPU is the most vital part of your PC, so you want it to stay in peak condition for as long as possible.<\/p>\n<p><em><strong>Let us know in the <a href=\"#comments\">comments<\/a> below which method worked for you. Or, if you discovered another solution not listed here, why not share it in <\/strong><a href=\"https:\/\/g100.us\/forum\/\"><strong>the forum<\/strong><\/a><strong>?<\/strong><\/em><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>The Central Processing Unit (CPU) is known as the brain of your computer for a reason: It\u2019s responsible for processing and executing the instructions that come from your operating system, software, and other hardware components. When your CPU overheats, a whole range of problems can occur, from stuttering, crashes, random shutdowns, and the dreaded blue...<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":2343,"featured_media":21377,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":[],"categories":[74],"tags":[117],"acf":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/g100.us\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/21372"}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/g100.us\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/g100.us\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/g100.us\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/2343"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/g100.us\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=21372"}],"version-history":[{"count":9,"href":"https:\/\/g100.us\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/21372\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":22428,"href":"https:\/\/g100.us\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/21372\/revisions\/22428"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/g100.us\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/21377"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/g100.us\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=21372"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/g100.us\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=21372"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/g100.us\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=21372"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}