The computer makes a strange or strong fan noise and/or emanates a lot of heat

1: Ensure proper space for ventilation

Proper ventilation for the system is important for workstation operation. Follow these guidelines to ensure adequate ventilation:

• Keep the computer upright and on a sturdy, level surface.
• Provide at least 15 centimetres (6 inches) of clearance around each vent.
• If the computer is being used at very high altitudes, above 1500 meters (5000 feet), take extra care to keep the computer cool. The maximum limit of 35 degrees Celsius (95 degrees Fahrenheit) drops 1 degree Celsius (~34 degrees Fahrenheit) every ~300 meters (1000 feet) of altitude.

2: Place the computer in a cooler room

A small difference in temperature might be all that is needed to prevent a component from failing. Move the computer to a cooler room in the house or office. If this is not an option, continue with the next step.

3: Improve your computer efficiency

Close any unused software.
Disconnect from the Internet when not using it.
If the computer is overheating when playing games, try a lower screen resolution or reduce the graphic parameters.
Use energy saving parameters when your computer is not in use. E.g. Automatically turn the screen off after 5 minutes of inactivity, etc.

4: BIOS update

For the following models, a BIOS update may be available to improve the computer performance. Other models are not concerned.

SA and SB series

VPCE series

VPCF series

VGN-CS and BZ series

SVP11 & SVP13 series

Other models are not affected by these BIOS updates.

5: Identify issues caused by heat.

The electrical and electronic components inside the computer generate heat. The fan allows air to circulate and avoid that the component overheat. Overheating will cause the fan to spin constantly and can potentially damage some components and affect the overall performance of the computer.

One of the main tasks of the BIOS is to monitor the temperature of the computer and to adjust the cooling system. Although the sound coming from the cooling system may sometimes be annoying under certain conditions, it is a sign that your computer is working properly.
A fan is one of the few moving parts in a computer. As it comes in contact with dust and hot air, it may need to be cleaned or replaced during the lifetime of a computer. Indeed, dust accumulation prevents air from flowing around the cooling fins and causes the fan to work harder.

On the other hand, functional noises can also be sometimes heard, with various causes such as a piezo-electric transformer, quartz, coil, capacitor. These noises cannot always be filtered out and do not suggest a malfunction.

Cleaning the inside of a laptop computer can be a difficult task. However, in some situations, it may be necessary because of excessive dust and dirt build-up within the computer, such as on the processor's heat sink. Unfortunately, however, because of the complexity often involved in disassembling the laptop to reach many of these areas, it is recommended that you contact us for further advice.