How to fix a Mac that is overheating, running hot, or has loud fan noise

Summary

This guide helps you troubleshoot and resolve: How to fix a Mac that is overheating, running hot, or has loud fan noise. Follow the steps below to fix the issue.

Common Causes

When your Mac runs hotter than usual or its fans spin loudly, it's usually a sign that something is pushing the hardware harder than expected. In most cases, the cause is software-related — a runaway process, too many browser tabs, or background apps consuming CPU. Environmental factors like blocked vents or direct sunlight can also contribute. The good news is that most overheating issues can be resolved at home without a service appointment by working through a few targeted checks.

Quick Fix Steps

If your Mac is currently overheating or the fans are roaring, try these steps in order before diving into deeper troubleshooting:

1. Close any applications you're not actively using, especially browsers with many tabs open.
2. Quit apps visible in the menu bar that you don't need (cloud storage sync, chat clients, etc.).
3. Move your Mac to a hard, flat surface away from soft furnishings, and ensure the vents aren't blocked.
4. Check Activity Monitor for any process using a high percentage of CPU and quit it if safe to do so.
5. Restart your Mac to clear any stuck processes.
6. If the issue persists, proceed to the detailed instructions below.

Detailed Instructions

1. Identify Resource-Hungry Applications

The most common cause of overheating is software placing sustained load on the processor. Activity Monitor shows you exactly what's happening in real time.

1. Open Activity Monitor from Applications > Utilities, or search for it using Spotlight (Cmd + Space).
2. Click the % CPU column header to sort processes by CPU usage.
3. Note any process consistently using a high percentage (above 50–60% while idle is suspicious).
4. Click the % Energy tab to see which apps are drawing the most power.
5. Select the offending process and click the X button in the toolbar to quit it.
6. If the process belongs to an app you recognise, update or reinstall that app. If it's unfamiliar, search the process name online for guidance.

2. Check for macOS and Firmware Updates

Apple regularly releases updates that include thermal management improvements and fixes for runaway processes.

1. Click the Apple menu and choose System Settings (or System Preferences on older macOS).
2. Select General > Software Update.
3. Install any available macOS updates, including optional firmware updates if offered.
4. Restart when prompted.

3. Reset the System Management Controller (SMC)

The SMC controls power management, battery, and thermal behaviour on Intel-based Macs. Resetting it can resolve fan and temperature irregularities. Apple Silicon Macs (M1, M2, M3, M4) do not have an SMC — skip this step if your Mac uses Apple silicon.

For MacBooks with the Apple T2 Security Chip (Intel, 2018 and later):

1. Shut down your Mac.
2. Press and hold the power button for 10 seconds, then release.
3. Wait a few seconds, then press the power button to start up.

For older Intel MacBooks:

1. Shut down your Mac.
2. Plug in the power adapter.
3. Press and hold Shift (left side), Control (left side), and Option (left side) together with the power button for 10 seconds.
4. Release all keys, then press the power button to start up.

For Intel iMac, Mac Mini, or Mac Pro:

1. Shut down your Mac and unplug the power cable.
2. Wait 15 seconds, then plug the cable back in.
3. Wait 5 seconds, then press the power button to start up.

4. Clear Vents and Improve Airflow

Dust accumulation and poor ventilation force fans to work harder and trap heat inside the chassis.

1. Shut down your Mac and disconnect the power.
2. Use compressed air to gently blow dust out of the vents. On MacBooks, vents are along the rear edge or hinge. On iMacs, the vent is along the bottom edge.
3. Hold the can upright and use short bursts to avoid moisture build-up.
4. Avoid using a vacuum cleaner, as static can damage components.
5. Place your Mac on a hard, flat surface. Avoid beds, couches, and lap use for extended periods.
6. Keep your Mac out of direct sunlight and away from heat sources such as radiators.

5. Manage Login Items and Background Apps

Apps that launch at login or run in the background consume resources continuously, even when you're not using them.

1. Open System Settings > General > Login Items.
2. Review the list under Open at Login and remove anything you don't need by selecting it and clicking the minus (–) button.
3. Switch to the Allow in the Background section and disable background activity for apps that don't require it.
4. Restart your Mac and monitor whether temperatures improve.

6. Check for Malware or Unwanted Software

Cryptocurrency miners, adware, and other unwanted software can hijack CPU resources without your knowledge.

1. Open Activity Monitor and look for unfamiliar processes using high CPU.
2. Cross-reference any unknown process names online.
3. Check Applications > Utilities > Launch Agents folders for suspicious .plist files if you're comfortable doing so.
4. Run a scan using a reputable malware removal tool such as Malwarebytes for Mac (free version available).
5. Remove anything flagged and restart.

7. Reset NVRAM/PRAM (Intel Macs Only)

NVRAM stores certain settings including some power and thermal configurations. Resetting it can clear corrupted values.

1. Shut down your Mac.
2. Press the power button, then immediately hold Option, Command, P, and R together.
3. Hold the keys for about 20 seconds. On Macs that play a startup sound, release after the sound plays a second time. On Macs with a T2 chip or Apple silicon, release when the Apple logo appears and disappears twice.
4. Let your Mac start up normally.

8. Run Apple Diagnostics

If the issue persists, use the built-in diagnostics tool to check for hardware faults such as failing fans or sensors.

1. On Apple silicon Macs, shut down the Mac, then press and hold the power button until the startup options window appears. Press Cmd + D.
2. On Intel Macs, restart the Mac and immediately press and hold the D key until a progress bar or language selection screen appears.
3. Note any reference codes provided by the diagnostic tool to share with an authorised service provider.

Still Having Issues?