Stop Your Laptop from Overheating: A Guide to Cleaning Fans and Vents

We often hear people complaining that their laptops have been heating up over the years. They usually go for quick fixes like buying a cooling pad or keeping their devices at an angle for better airflow. Although these steps are effective to a certain extent, these are not the end of their problems. 

Imagine if there could be a way to make your laptop not heat but work faster all the time! Turns out, there is a simple way; it’s just that most people are not aware of it. They might believe that a professional is required to clean your laptop internals the right way. 

We bring you this step-by-step guide to dispel this belief and to make cleaning your laptop innards as easy as you think cleaning the outside is.  

Is Cleaning Inside the Laptop Necessary? 

Cleaning the inside of a laptop is not just an essential maintenance task, it may also make your device last longer. As with any other device, using a laptop for a significant number of years can result in reduced performance and maintenance. Not to mention, because the laptop inside can also accumulate dust, especially around vents, fans and other internal components.  

The dust bunnies sticking to the inside of your laptop cause them to overheat because it essentially insulates the ventilation. It not only slows down the computer, but also damages the hardware, and in some cases, permanently, if unchecked. Not to mention a clogged fan is no music to the ears either. This is why cleaning the inside of a laptop is crucial.  

Cleaning Supplies to Use to Clean the Laptop Inside 

Here is a complete list of the supplies you would require cleaning a laptop internally at home: 

• Microfiber cloth x 2 
• Compressed air can  
• Small, soft brush 
• Rubbing (70% Isopropyl) Alcohol 
• Cotton Swabs 
• Distilled water   
• Handheld vacuum cleaner (optional) 

Good news is that you can find all these items in a computer store or online. There are even home computer care kits available online which come with all the necessary items in one bag. 

Please note that using a bleach or ammonia for internal cleaning may not be advised by the experts as their abrasive nature can be detrimental to electronics. If you think you are not able to clean the laptop yourself, it is highly advised to seek professional help. 

How to Clean the Inside of a Laptop 

Here is the catch: most modern laptops are not meant to be cleaned by a user as they come built-in to tackle heat dissipation issues. If ever you see dust forming on the outside of laptop vents, you can go ahead and disassemble your computer. However, generally that can take up to years to get to that point.  

Forcing a deep clean periodically might be doing more harm than good. On the other hand, older laptops may be more prone to dust blockages, so you are more than welcome to subject them to this regimen. 

Essential Tips to Protect Your Laptop Before Cleaning 

It is always recommended that before opening your laptop, it is best to back up all your files, images, videos and other important data. You can choose an external drive to store them or upload these files right to the cloud at your ease.  

If your laptop is a bit dated or refurbished, it is very important that you remove the battery. Older laptops came with a detachable battery which served as a knee jerk in most cases to prevent software malfunction. Keeping it attached can cause electrical damage or even Lithium fire, which can be extremely dangerous and difficult to put out in a household setting. 

Ensure that before beginning, you are in a clean, clutter-free, static-free environment, preferably an open space, like a living room.  

Also, keep the manual of your device at hand to know the device name, model and other relevant information e.g., how to take off the casing, fans, heatsinks, etc. 

Step 1: Disassemble the Laptop  

Dismantling your laptop might mean voiding the warranty as you will have to peel off the sticker to get inside. If you are unsure about the warranty, you should stop at this point and seek professional help, preferably from the manufacturers.  

Taking the Screws Out 

Start by locating all the screws at the back, carefully taking them out with the help of a screwdriver and putting them in a safe place for later use. Please understand that if you loose any screw, you will be in a world of pain and trouble. 

Open the Casing 

Please note that not all laptop manufacturers make them the same. Some have different opening patterns where you have a slider at the back. Others just come off as soon as the screws are taken out. If the casing is not coming out, use a plastic spludger or even a credit card. NEVER use something metallic to pull open a laptop casing as it can do some damage.  

As soon as you pry open the casing, you will see dust, hair and gunk stuck to the edges of the casing and even air vents. Use the soft brush to gently shake it off, but do not think of it as trivial and let it slide, because it can become a major nuisance down the road.  

Take Photos for Reference 

It is always a good idea to take photos as you go as a reference for reassembly. You can also go one step ahead and do it with a disassembly/reassembly YouTube video of the same laptop model as yours.  

Step 2: Cleaning Fans and Vents  

As you place the casing aside, take a good look at the fans of the laptop. Remove any visible dust with the help of the soft brush. 

If needed, you can also use the spray can, but it is highly recommended that you use the spludger to hold down the fans from spinning as you air spray them clean. Spinning can generate voltage that harms the circuit board.  

Hold the spray can upright and blow compressed air in short bursts into the fan and vent areas.  

Some laptops have detachable fans, with heatsinks underneath. These can be taken out with a simple lever, making them easier to air out.  

If even after compressed air spray, the dust remains, it is better to use a microfiber cloth with rubbing alcohol to wipe the edges of the blades. Ensure that you are not using alcohol more than 70% isopropyl alcohol as it can be damaging to the sensitive parts of the assembly. For best results, damp the cloth lightly and not spray alcohol directly on the laptop.   

Step 3: Cleaning the Internals  

Some laptops have an additional layer over internal electronics underneath the fans. Locate it and gently remove it. Skip this step if your laptop does not have it. 

Use canned spray to remove any visible gunk. Use short sprays, and do not fixate on a single spot as these cans can freeze the electronics and can damage it. You should stick to the small brush and microfiber cloth to clean all the electronics and should never use a napkin or a toothbrush. 

When it comes to components other than heatsinks, like connecters and cables, use a cotton swab to gently rub off dust. If required, dab the cotton swab end with isopropyl alcohol to achieve maximum results.  

Step 4: Reassemble 

Now it is time to get all the components back together and test the laptop. Ensure that there is no dust visible in any nook or crevice before you wrap back the casing. Using the images you took earlier, reassemble the heatsinks, cables, fans, and casing. Screw the casing carefully, before plugging the computer in. 

If you remove the battery, put it back on it. Start the computer and wait for it to boot. Listen to unusual noises and check if the cooling system is working effectively. 

Can I Face Any Issues with Laptop Cleaning? 

• Connection Issues: There is a likelihood that you improperly detach panels or components, or do not reattach them as good as they were before, leading to bent pins, broken connections and damaged electronics.   
• Static Discharge: Handling internal components without proper grounding can cause static electricity damage to sensitive electronic components. 
• Component Overheating / Non-responsiveness: If you don’t properly reassemble the laptop or if you damage cooling components, the laptop may overheat, leading to performance issues or even permanent damage. 

Final Thoughts 

Today, a laptop is synonymous with digital lifeblood. Maintaining optimal performance and efficiency can be everything that stops you from doing your daily tasks. It is where keeping it regularly maintained comes at play. A little upkeep will save you time, money, and nuisance down road.  

By following these steps and tips, you can keep your device in top condition, ensuring it runs smoothly for years to come. Remember to always prioritize safety and consult your laptop’s manual or a professional if you’re unsure about any cleaning procedures.