Why is my phone getting hot?

Modern smartphones are powerful devices, but they don't always cope well with heat. With their high-performance processors and large batteries packed into slim cases, overheating can become a problem. If you've ever experienced your phone getting uncomfortably warm, don't worry – there are simple steps you can take to manage the issue and prevent damage to your device.

In this article, we'll explore the common causes of phone overheating and provide practical tips to help you keep your phone running cool.

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Causes of Phone Overheating

1. Overuse: Prolonged screen time puts extra strain on your phone's components, causing it to heat up. It's a good idea to give your phone a break every now and then to prevent overheating.
2. Overcharging: Contrary to popular belief, charging your phone to 100% isn't always the best practice. Charging between 40% and 80% can help reduce stress on the battery and prevent overheating. Try topping up your battery during the day to avoid overcharging overnight.
3. Background Apps: When you leave apps running in the background, they continue to use your phone's resources and contribute to overheating. Close any apps you're not actively using to lighten the load on your device.
4. Gaming and Video Streaming: Intensive tasks like playing games or streaming videos for extended periods can cause your phone to heat up quickly. These activities demand more power from your phone's processor and battery.
5. Video Calls: Apps like FaceTime and Skype require your phone to use its screen, camera, and microphone simultaneously, which can generate significant heat.
6. Hot Environments: Leaving your phone in a warm place, such as a sun-soaked car, can seriously damage the battery and internal components.

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Risks of Phone Overheating

Smartphones operate best between 0°C and 35°C. If your phone overheats beyond this range, you may encounter issues such as:

• Forced shutdowns
• Drained or failed battery
• Data loss
• Component damage
• In rare cases, melted components or fire hazards

To avoid these risks, it's crucial to take steps to prevent your phone from overheating.

How to Cool Down an Overheated Phone

If you notice your phone feeling warmer than usual, follow these steps to help it cool down:

1. Switch it off: Powering down your phone stops all its components from generating heat.
2. Remove the case: Phone cases can trap heat, so take yours off to allow the phone to cool more effectively.
3. Dim the screen: Reducing your screen brightness can help lower the workload on your phone's processor.
4. Update apps: App updates often include optimisations that can improve efficiency and reduce the strain on your device.
5. Uninstall unused apps: Streamline your phone by removing any apps you don't use regularly. This frees up resources and prevents unnecessary background activity.
6. Close background apps: Exit any apps you're not currently using to minimise the demand on your phone's processor.
7. Temporarily fan your phone: While not a long-term solution, gently fanning your phone can provide some immediate relief from overheating. Just be sure to address the underlying causes as well.
8. Turn off Bluetooth: When not in use, disable Bluetooth to prevent your phone from constantly searching for devices to connect to.
9. Use the correct charger: Always use a charger from a reputable manufacturer, and check for any damage to the cable or plug.
10. Keep your phone away from other devices: Avoid stacking your phone with other tech, as this can compound heat build-up.
11. Avoid extreme temperature changes: Resist the temptation to put your overheated phone in the fridge or freezer, as sudden temperature changes can cause further damage.

While phone overheating can be concerning, it's usually manageable by following these simple tips. However, if your phone continues to overheat after trying these steps, it may be a sign of a more serious issue. If that's the case, consider selling your old phone to Envirofone.

We offer competitive prices for devices in any condition – even those with battery problems. Plus, you can put the money towards a newer, more reliable refurbished phone from our extensive selection. Visit our refurbished phone page to find great deals on top brands, including refurbished Android phones and refurbished Samsung phones.