Modern smartphones don’t like the heat. Their powerful processing units and large batteries are often contained within slim cases, making overheating a problem. But what do you do if your handset burns up? In the heat of the moment, you may look to put it somewhere cold; but this can cause long-term damage.

 

Don’t worry, though. There are simple ways to manage phone overheating. So, stick around, and we’ll cover everything you need to know, including why it might happen and how to avoid a mobile meltdown.

 

Reasons why your phone is overheating

 

There are many causes of phone overheating, from the sun to screentime, charging to streaming. Let’s review the different scenarios.

 

Overworked

If you enjoy lots of screentime, your battery will work hard to keep your smartphone functioning. This strains your handset’s electric circuits and increases temperature levels under the hood. So, it’s a good idea to give your phone a break and pop it down now and again.  

 

Overcharged

Contrary to popular opinion, charging to 100% isn’t the optimal amount. In fact, charging between 40%-80% prevents additional stress and phone overheating. Pro tip: boost battery levels during the day to avoid overcharging at night.

 

Busy apps

When apps are active, they eat into your battery levels and cause overheating. So, do your phone a favour and close the apps you’re not using.

 

Gaming and streaming videos

Who doesn’t love a Netflix binge? Your smartphone, that’s who. Streaming video content or playing games for long stretches causes phone overheating as it demands more energy from your handset.  

 

Lengthy calls  

If you’re on a video call and notice your phone getting hot, there’s a reason. Video apps, like FaceTime or Skype, require more power as they simultaneously use your screen, camera, and microphone.  

 

Sunstroke

You probably guessed this one: the sun can cause your phone to overheat. Who’d have thought it? So, protect your battery by shifting your handset into the shade.

 

Warm interiors

Stuffy interiors aren’t healthy for handsets. Leaving your phone somewhere hot, like a warm car, can seriously damage your battery and electrical circuit.

 

What happens if my phone gets too hot?

Smartphones are at their safest between 0 and 35 degrees. Beyond 35 degrees, you may encounter issues like forced shutdowns, a drained or failed battery, and, in rare cases, a melted CPU unit.

You may have to replace your battery if it’s damaged. This is a tricky business with a non-removable battery, forcing you to buy a brand-new phone. But this is the worst-case scenario, and there are various ways to prevent your phone overheating.

 

How do you cool your phone down?

If you notice your handset is warmer than usual, follow these steps to cool it down and avoid damage.

 

• Switch it off: Shutting down your phone stops using its various electrical units, helping to cool its engine room.
• Take off the case: On hot summer days, a case acts as another layer of insulation, trapping more heat. When possible, strip it off to give your phone a breather.
• Dim your screen: If your screen is warm to the touch, your device’s CPU may be overheating. Tweak screen brightness to give the CPU a break.
• Update apps: When an app asks for an update, it’s usually to fix an issue. Getting the latest updates helps keep your phone cool, as your apps use less of your device’s energy
• Uninstall apps: An abundance of apps means your CPU unit is working overtime to power your phone. Remove any unused apps and prevent them running in the background.
• Close apps: Not using an open app? Close it down. Having multiple apps open requires more effort from your phone to run them, increasing its body temperature.
• Fan your phone: It may look a tad odd, but fanning your phone or blowing on it can help regulate its temperature.  
• Turn off Bluetooth: If your Bluetooth is on, it’ll constantly try and connect with another device, causing your phone to work harder and heat up.
• Use the correct charger: Use a charger from a reliable manufacturer to avoid potential overheating risks. It’s also a good idea to check there’s no damage to the lead, port, and plug.
• Separate your phone from other tech: Stacking laptops, tablets, or phones can increase the chances of overheating. So, keep them free and breezy.  
• Avoid sudden temperature changes: Although it’s tempting, don’t put your smartphone somewhere too cold, like the fridge or freezer. And please don’t put your handset under water—even if it’s IP68 certified.

 

When your handset can’t be fixed

 

Sadly, if you’ve followed our steps and your handset is still scorching, it could mean it’s on the brink. But don’t fret—if that’s the case, you can sell your old phone to Envirofone and get cash for a good-as-new refurbished phone. Even if the battery is on the blink! Head to our refurbished phone page to check out our range of affordable mobiles from top phone manufacturers!