How to Get Extreme Heat Reduction on Phone

Smartphones, tablets, and other gadgets can easily overheat in extreme temperatures. High temperatures can shorten battery life, damage internal components, and make your device run sluggishly. In severe cases, heat buildup could even cause a smartphone battery to spark a fire. Though they don’t make sunscreen for smartphones, if they did, now would be the time to use it!

As summer arrives with record-breaking heat and humidity, it’s crucial to recognize that while we might find the heat uncomfortable or even dangerous, your high-tech devices aren’t immune to these extremes. Here’s a comprehensive guide to keeping your precious gadgets safe from the sweltering heat.

How hot is too hot for your smartphone?

Most modern smartphones are equipped with temperature safety features that automatically put them in standby mode or shut them off when temperatures exceed certain limits. However, these features aren’t foolproof, and extreme temperatures can still cause lasting damage.

Apple, Samsung, Google, and other manufacturers generally agree that 95 degrees Fahrenheit (35 degrees Celsius) is the upper limit for using smartphones. For storage purposes, the limit can be slightly higher—around 113 degrees Fahrenheit (45 degrees Celsius)—but this is pushing the boundaries. Exceeding these temperatures can endanger both your device and, potentially, you.

It’s also important to remember that the ambient temperature reported by your weather app may not reflect the localized temperatures your device experiences. For example, if you leave your phone on the dashboard of your car, the internal temperature can spike dramatically. In one study, a car parked in the sun on a 95-degree day saw the interior temperature average 116 degrees within an hour, with the dashboard reaching a scorching 157 degrees. Even vehicles parked in the shade can exceed 100 degrees. Such conditions are too hot and could cause irreversible damage to your device.

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When do smartphones start to overheat?

Your smartphone can overheat in various scenarios. Activities like running apps, charging your device (especially with a cheap or off-brand charger), and even using certain protective cases can all generate heat. Unlike humans, smartphones cannot cool themselves off, so heat builds up internally. If you’ve ever noticed your device getting hot during a Zoom call or while charging, you’ve experienced this firsthand.

Is it good to put your phone in the fridge to cool off?

Though it might seem tempting to cool your smartphone in the fridge during a heatwave, this is not advisable. Instead, the best course of action is to keep your devices out of direct sunlight. Many smartphones have dark screens that absorb heat, so shielding them from the sun’s harsh rays is crucial.

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DO: Let it breathe

Keeping your phone in your pocket can restrict airflow, which is essential for cooling. Allow your device to breathe by placing it in a shaded area. Avoid bulky cases that can insulate the device and exacerbate overheating. Consider removing the case temporarily to allow for better ventilation.

DO: Give it a break

Overusing your phone generates more heat internally. If possible, minimize usage during extreme heat and avoid keeping the screen brightness at maximum, as this increases power consumption and heat production. Enabling Low Power Mode can also help reduce heat generation by limiting background activities and screen brightness.

DO: Turn off apps you’re not using

Running multiple apps simultaneously makes your phone work harder, which generates additional heat. To close unused apps on an iPhone, swipe up from the bottom of the screen to view open apps and swipe up on those you want to close. On most Android devices, tap the menu icon in the lower-left corner (typically three vertical dots or lines) to access open apps and swipe them away to close.

DON’T: Stick it in the freezer

If your device shows signs of overheating and shuts down, resist the urge to place it in a freezer or icy cooler. Instead, find a shaded and moderately cooler environment, such as an air-conditioned room, to allow the phone to gradually return to a normal temperature. Rapid cooling can lead to condensation, which can be damaging to your phone’s internals.

DON’T: Dunk it in water

Many smartphones boast water resistance, but this doesn’t make them suitable for cooling in a pool or sink. Even if your phone is water-resistant, exposing it to extreme heat and then dunking it in water can risk water damage. It’s better to avoid such practices, especially if the phone’s waterproofing might be compromised.

DO: Turn it off

If your device is on the verge of overheating, shutting it off might be the best option. This can help prevent further damage and allow the phone to cool down more effectively.

My phone shut down from the heat—now what?

If your phone shuts down due to heat, don’t panic. Modern devices have built-in safeguards, including automatic shutdowns, to protect them from overheating. Remove your phone from direct sunlight and place it in a shaded area.

According to device insurance and repair company Asurion, fanning your phone or blowing on it can aid in cooling it down, similar to how a breeze cools a person. Additionally, removing any phone cases and turning off Bluetooth can help reduce the device’s workload and heat generation. Enabling Airplane Mode can also minimize battery drain by stopping the phone from constantly searching for a signal.

Lastly, keep your gadgets spaced out. Just like people, devices need room to cool off effectively. Avoid cramming multiple devices together, as this can trap heat and hinder their cooling process.

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Final Thoughts

Extreme heat can be as hard on your gadgets as it is on you. By following these tips, you can help ensure your smartphone and other devices remain cool and functional even during the hottest summer days. Dealnew is here to help you with practical advice and solutions to keep your technology safe and running smoothly. Stay cool and take care of your devices!