How to Fix an Overheating CPU: 11 Troubleshooting Tips to Try

Learn how to fix an overheating PC with these quick and easy methods

Co-authored by Hannah Dillon Reviewed by Stan Kats

Last Updated: July 1, 2024 Fact Checked

Are you getting a "CPU over temperature" error when you use your PC? This error occurs when the central processing unit (CPU) of your computer gets too hot and needs to shut down so it doesn't sustain damage. While this can be a scary and frustrating issue to have, we've gathered the best troubleshooting tips to fix this problem so you can get back to using your computer like normal. Keep reading to learn more.

How to Fix an Overheating CPU

Make sure the inside of your PC is clean, as a dusty PC will overheat more easily. If you notice any airflow problems, fix those as well. You should also make sure you put the right amount of thermal paste between the CPU and heatsink. Lastly, try a malware scan to rule out any viruses causing the overheating.

1

Shut Your PC Down to Cool Off

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If you get a CPU temperature error, try shutting down your PC and letting it cool off. This can help fix the issue, but if there's an underlying issue causing your PC to routinely overheat, you'll need to address that to avoid overheating your CPU again.

2

Position Your PC Properly

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Make sure your PC is placed in an optimal spot. If your PC isn't in a good spot in your room or office, it could potentially overheat. Check the following list below for some tips:
- Don't place your PC in direct sunlight. Keep it in a cool, shaded spot (such as below your desk). If you must keep your PC in a bright spot, use curtains to block out as much sunlight as possible.
- Keep your PC on a flat surface. Don't put your PC directly on carpet, as carpet fibers can block airflow at the bottom of the case. If the only spot you can put your case is on carpet, consider buying a PC tower riser stand to put your tower on.
- Make sure there's enough airflow around your case. Don't stack things on top of your computer, as this can block fans at the top of your case. If your PC tower is enclosed (like in a desk cabinet) make sure there's ample space around the case to allow heat to dissipate, and make sure the back of the cabinet is open to allow for proper airflow.

3

Optimize Your PC's Performance

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Keep your PC clean and up-to-date to not strain the CPU. If your CPU has to work harder to run your computer, it can potentially overheat faster. Try these tips to keep your PC clean and optimized:
- Update your software and operating system regularly. Running software that's one version behind won't hurt the performance of your computer too much, but the longer you wait, the higher the chances that your PC's performance will suffer and strain your CPU.
- Only run demanding software when necessary. This depends on how powerful your CPU is, but in general don't run a lot of intensive programs at the same time. These programs can include graphics or video software (like Photoshop or Premiere), modeling software (such as Maya or 3ds Max), or certain video games (such as Civilization V or Minecraft).
- Close unresponsive programs. If a program is unresponsive, your computer will try to get it to respond. This might eat up more resources than necessary, and it's usually better to just close out of the program and restart it if you are still using it.
- Close browser tabs and programs you're not using. Keep your computer uncluttered by closing out of programs you're not using at the moment—make sure the program is completely closed by opening Task Manager and ending the process, if it's still running in the background. Also close browser tabs you're not using anymore, and consider bookmarking webpages you want to come back to but aren't using at the moment.

4

Turn On Power Saving Settings

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Enabling power save settings can help your PC stay cooler. When you turn on power saving settings, your computer uses less power, and this may help your PC stay cooler. To turn on power saving settings, follow the instructions for your operating system and computer type below:
- Windows 10 laptop: Click the battery icon in your taskbar and drag the slider under Power mode all the way to the left (best battery life).
- Windows 11 laptop: Go to Start > Settings > System > Power & battery and select Best power efficiency under "Power mode."
- Windows 10 & 11 desktop: Open the Control Panel and click Power Options, then click the arrow next to "Hide additional plans." Select Power saver.

5

Clean Your PC's Interior

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Open up your tower and clean the inside. Over time, dust will settle inside your PC tower. When this dust covers your CPU cooler or fans, it can decrease their efficiency and reduce airflow in your case. When this happens, your CPU will overheat.
- Using a can of compressed air, clean the dust out of your PC tower. Make sure to get the fans on the front, back, bottom, and top of your case, as well as the heatsink fans at the top (if you have them).

6

Scan for Malware

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Use antimalware software to quarantine dangerous programs or files. Sometimes, malware can cause our PC to overheat. To fix this issue, use an antimalware software to quarantine and remove viruses and malware from your computer.
- You can use Windows Defender, which comes with your PC, or you can try a third-party software like Kaspersky, Malwarebytes, or BitDefender.

7

Check Your Cooling System

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If your cooling system (case fans and CPU heatsink) aren't working properly, this can contribute to your computer overheating. Make sure all of your fans are working, and if not make sure they're plugged into your motherboard fully. Also make sure your CPU heatsink is seated properly on top of the CPU.

8

Check Your Case Ventilation

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Organize your case to increase airflow. If you have a small case with a lot of big components, airflow will be difficult. Make sure to keep the cables in your case organized to ensure there's no issues with airflow.
- You may also want to consider getting a bigger case if this is a common occurrence for you.

9

Replace CPU Thermal Paste

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Remove the heatsink and put in new thermal paste. If you use too much or too little thermal paste, it can cause the CPU to overheat. If you removed your heatsink for any reason and had to put on thermal paste, check to make sure you put the correct amount.
- To remove thermal paste, use rubbing alcohol and a tissue or cotton swab to remove it all. Let the CPU and heatsink dry. Then, place a pea-sized drop of thermal paste in the center of the CPU and place the heatsink on top before screwing it back in.^{[1]
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10

Replace Your CPU and/or Heatsink

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Get a new CPU or heatsink. If nothing else works, you may need to replace your CPU or CPU's heatsink. There's a chance one of them is broken, or it always had an issue that never became apparent until now.
- Make sure to get a CPU and heatsink that fit your motherboard and computer case. If you can repurchase the same CPU and heatsink that your PC had previously, you know those models will work.

11

Go to a Computer Repair Technician

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Contact a local computer repair shop for help. If you have exhausted all other options, a professional computer repair specialist might be able to help. The specialist may be able to diagnose the problem more effectively after seeing your PC in person.
- To find a computer repair shop, look on your favorite search engine. Look for professional shops that have a number of good reviews, or get suggestions from friends and family for repair shops.
- If you have a laptop and you're getting the CPU over temperature error, going to a repair shop is the best bet. Laptops are difficult to fix on your own as the parts aren't always the easiest to remove or replace.