Your MacBook may overheat if you constantly run demanding software or games. Dust build-up, faulty fans and high ambient temperature may also contribute to overheating. If your MacBook is getting hotter lately, you may do the following to make it cooler:
Put it on the right surface
Your lap isn’t the place to operate your laptop for an extended period. Instead, you should work on a desk with flat and hard surface. Your MacBook is designed to operate above such surface to ensure most efficient ventilation. If you put the MacBook on soft furnishings, like couch or pillow, there would be poor air circulation under the laptop. The MacBook will have less ability to dissipate excess heat from the interior. If you are running demanding software, you should consider turning on the air conditioning or avoid placing the device in direct sunlight.
Close unnecessary software and tabs
MacBook is an excellent multitasker with its fast processor, ample RAM and SSD storage. But if you are pushing your device too hard, it may start to overheat. This could happen if the CPU and GPU are running near their peak performance non-stop. If you are planning to play a game, it is a good idea to close all other software. If you have more than ten tabs on your web browser, your MacBook may also start to heat up. If possible, keep the number of web browser tabs under six. You should realize that 3D games and web browsers can be real resource hogs.
Update macOS
Less optimized software may cause hardware to work harder than necessary. If possible, you should regularly check macOS for its latest updates. Go to System Preferences>Software Update. Check if a new update is available for your MacBook. Apple is working non-stop to deliver the most optimized experience for all macOS users. If you are still not getting an update, Apple could still be working on an update. Another solution to try is resetting the SMC, especially if your MacBook isn’t using the fan properly.
Run diagnostics
If your machine continues to overheat and shuts down occasionally, there could be a problem with the fan. So, it is important to make sure the fans are still working appropriately. If the fan grinds and stutters audibly, it confirms that you have a faulty fan. The MacBook Air with an M1 processor has no fan, so it’s not necessary to check your fans. Use the diagnostic software that comes with your MacBook. When turning on the MacBook, you should press and hold the D key. Follow the instructions on the screen to start the diagnostic process.
Clean and use laptop coolers
If you are an advanced user and your machine is no longer under warranty, you may consider opening the enclosure. With a brush and low-powered vacuum, you can make the internal components clean again. If possible, remove the fan and clean it manually. Reapply fresh thermal paste on the CPU to restore the heat dissipation performance of your MacBook. If possible, you can also use a laptop cooler to improve air circulation under the MacBook.
