Laptop Shutdown Problems Due to Heat

If Your Laptop shuts down unexpectedly, it may be overheating.

Heat is one of the main causes for a laptop to shutdown unexpectedly. This is a safety feature and needs to be addressed to prevent real damage to the computer's main components.

Safety Feature

Computer processors are hardwired to shut down at extreme temperature to keep them from being damaged. Overheating is a problem that is especially prevalent in laptop computers because the electrical components are confined to a small space with very limited airflow. The ability for the heatsink and fan system to draw heat away from the operating components is much lower than in a standard tower computer where airflow is less inhibited.

Overt Overheating

Overt signs that your laptop is overheating include your laptop is smoking or you smell a burning odor. If this happens, you should remove the battery from your laptop immediately.

Other Signs of Overheating

If your laptop shuts down with no error screen, there is a good chance it has done so because of an overheating issue. Check the battery and bottom of the laptop to see if they are running hotter than usual. After your computer reboots, check to see if there is airflow. CNet suggests if there is no airflow, then clean the fan with a compressed air canister.

References

• Daily International Publishers: Fan Always Runs or Laptop Overheats and Shuts itself Off
• CNet Australia: How to Clean Up Your Laptop