If you are reading these lines, it is quite likely that your PS4 makes strange (or directly annoying) noises while you play, and even suddenly turns off. In fact, these types of problems are even more frequent and pronounced during the summer , although they can occur at any time of the year. Luckily, it is possible to reduce that problem with a few simple tricks.
The source of the noise, broadly speaking, is that your PS4 overheats and, consequently, its cooling makes the internal ventilation system work with much more intensity. The first you will notice by simply touching its casing, while the second is manifested -logically- in the sound emanating from the console.
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With that in mind, our twofold goal in reducing PS4 noise is to prevent overheating situations and, at the same time, to improve system ventilation as much as possible through simple but effective solutions. But also, proposing ideas that will suit your console.
Where to put the PS4 and how
The PS4 instruction manuals (and, in general, any console) give us the first basic tips. In fact, some models even warn us that the system is overheating through a reddish blink on the power indicator . The protocol to follow, according to Sony, is as follows.
Turn off the system and do not use it for a while. When the system cools down, move it to a well-ventilated location and then resume use.
It is in that last sentence where we are given one of the basic keys: we must choose a place where the PS4 is well ventilated . If possible, in an open space where the console has ample clearance at the rear (where the power and HDMI cables connect). Generally speaking, twice as spacious as its own volume.
On the other hand, and being more concise, the least convenient is to store the console in a completely closed cabinet or in locations that tend to accumulate heat. And that implies distancing our PS4 as much as possible from other devices that also emit heat , such as other consoles or television decoders, for example.
In this aspect, in addition to the site having good ventilation, we must worry about two basic aspects: what type of material we are going to rest it on and how we are going to prevent and combat the accumulation of dust. Especially in the rear vents .
For one thing, the PS4 is designed to be used both vertically and horizontally . How to place it is your decision, how careful you are not to throw it away or put things on top and how seriously you get involved in the feng shui of your home. Logically, if you put it vertically, it aerates better, but you must also be careful that it is not exposed to dust.
Avoid putting the console on surfaces that retain heat. If you have it on a sheet, carpet or some fabric, or even placed on materials such as brick, it will heat up much faster than on cold surfaces like tile, marble, tile or ceramic, for example. It may sound like common sense, but everything counts.
For our part, we summarize everything and we recommend a very simple trick: find a place where the PS4 is well ventilated, has a lot of space (at least twice as wide as its volume ) and is separated from other devices that can generate, heat like other consoles. Do not put anything on top or too close and … Put legs on it!
Not only do we advise you 100% to bet on an approved PS4 support if you put it vertically, but also consider putting some very simple support legs if you have it horizontally. The idea, yes, that they raise it just a little bit, but firmly: think about the disc player and that it is not good that the components are constantly shaking.
There is the option of improvising some legs, of course. You can use the classic bumpers or studs as long as they are all resistant and of the same size so that the PS4 is stable. But you can also get very basic ones for reasonable prices . Here we leave you a couple of alternatives.
4 Horizontal Game Console Stands for Sony PlayStation4 PS4 Slim Pro
Today on Amazon for € 2.93
4 horizontal height support legs of foot stand for flat mount console
RRP at Amazon € 10.94
If you bet on the vertical, it is worth remembering that some supports also include a ventilation system . We put you the Sony officials and some alternatives that may interest you.
Sony – Vertical Stand Chassis D (PS4)
Today on Amazon for € 24.99
Sony Vertical Stand for PS4
PVP in PC components € 25.99
OIVO Ps4 / Ps4 Pro / Ps4 Slim Compatible Cooling Fan, Controller Charging Station, Vertical Cooling Stand with LED Indicators and Storage for 12 Games
Today on Amazon for € 34.99
Rixow Cooling for PS4 with Two Playstation 4 Fans Console with Free Ports Dual Charger Charging Station for Dual Shock – Black
Today on Amazon for € 18.99
As a final note, we recommend that (as much as possible) in the hottest months you bet on playing in well-ventilated rooms or with the air conditioning on.
You can also bet on a simple fan, as long as it is not pointed at the ventilation outlets of your PS4 , but remember that our goal (in addition to preventing overheating) is to reduce noise. If your fan makes more noise than the console, we will not have advanced too much in this regard.
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Cleaning and maintenance make the difference
As we already discussed, dust is one of the greatest enemies of the PS4 and its internal components. In general, it is the enemy is of any device with technology. The reason? The accumulation of internal dust and in the ventilation outlets directly affects the overheating of our consoles.
Therefore, our priority is not only to find a place where dust does not accumulate, but also to keep our PS4 as clean as possible by reviewing it regularly.
Ideally, clean the PS4 at least once a month, and vents should be our priority during the process. What’s more, these outputs must always be impeccable.
- To clean the cases and exterior of the console, you can use a chamoisor microfiber cloth.
Controller ‘N’ System Cleaning Kit for PS4 (Official License)
Price in Game € 2.95
- Also, for the most sensitive areas such as the vents, the console ports or the less accessible areas you can use a can of compressed air. Three cans cost about 10 euros.
PACK – 3 COMPRESSED AIR SPRAY EMINENT 400 ML UPRIGHT USE FOR CLEANING KEYBOARDS, COMPUTERS, CAMERAS AND OTHER ELECTRONIC DEVICES
Today on Amazon for € 11.10
Next, we leave you a video tutorial on how you can clean the Slim model.
There are also filters and dust covers that, in essence, we recommend if a lot of dust is generated where you live (or if you plan to get into works that will last a long time). It is one more option.
GAMINGER Dust Protection Set Anti Dust Covers Cover Plug for Sony PlayStation 4 Console Control protects against dust and dirt – BLACK
Today on Amazon for € 8.99
At this point it is worth bearing in mind that there are several PS4 models (the original, the one known as Slim, the PS4 Pro and its variants) and each one has its own design and ventilation system. And, of course, its own filters and dust covers.
Although it is normal for dust to accumulate inside the console, we are not going to recommend that you disassemble it . Among other reasons because the guarantee would be lost. But you can remove -with extreme care- the side cover of the first PS4 models or the upper case of the Slim and Pro models with relative ease for a superficial recognition and cleaning.
In the case, for example, of PS4 Pro you can blow the compressed air to the fan simply by removing the cover.
As we discussed, the idea is to reduce noise as much as possible . In fact, the only time the PS4 won’t make a sound is when it’s turned off.
However, if you see that following all of our advice your PS4 overheats a lot and very soon, or makes noises that are not normal , it is best to contact the seller (if it is new) or bet on the service official technician.
Extra round of tips
In addition to all of the above, we are going to give you six suggestions that may interest you.
If your PS4 overheats, turn it off normally
If your console is overheated, do not unplug it immediately or force it off , as the fans must continue to cool. Proceed with a normal shutdown.
On the other hand, if a game suddenly forces the ventilation of the console too much, you may want to close it and spend some time in the PS4 interface until the heat of the system is reduced.
Schedule your breaks
We all like to play marathons. However, what Sony recommends in the manual is to avoid prolonged use of PS4 . And he is not without reason.
The time ratio that is established is to rest about 15 minutes for every hour of play . From here we advise you to schedule breaks periodically. Not only for the console, but also for health.
Disco vs. Digital
The disc player is also a source of noise and heat . Especially during the installation process. Now, as a general rule, once our game is installed, the use of the reader is quite punctual.
Overheating the console is never good, so try to install when your PS4 is in the best condition and at the right time (at least, not after a gaming marathon) or bet directly on the digital format.
Not all hard drives are the same
PS4 offers the option to add extra storage through new internal hard drives. In the case of the original PS4 model, for example, you will find it by removing the side cover. And not all heat the console the same.
We recommend that you bet on an SSD (they heat less, although they are more expensive), although you also have the alternative of opting for an external model that, despite emitting a little sound, being outside the console does not add internal heat.
Seagate Game Drive, 2TB, External Hard Drive, Portable HDD, PS4 Compatible (STGD2000200)
Today on Amazon for € 81.19
An extra ventilation?
There is also the possibility of adding extra cooling through external fans . These dock and work by connecting to a USB (for example, from PS4) and help to disperse heat . Here are some suggestions.
PS4 Turbo Cooler Cooling Fan – ElecGear Super USB Temperature Control Cooling Fan Cooler for Sony PlayStation 4
Today on Amazon for € 14.99
PS4 Pro Cooling Fan – Turbo Cooler Super USB Temperature Control Cooling Fan Cooler for Sony PlayStation 4 Pro
Today on Amazon for € 21.98
[New Edition] PS4 Slim Turbo Cooler Cooling Fan – PeakLead Super USB Temperature Control Cooling Fan Cooler for PlayStation 4 Slim
Today on Amazon for € 19.99
To the dust … Not the time!
Finally, if you are going to be away from home for a long time and you are not going to take your PS4 with you, it is best to protect it from the dust that accumulates naturally. There are dustproof covers that are not too expensive and they will be great for picking up your games when you get back.
eXtremeRate Dust Proof PS4 Console Case Horizontal Protective Cover Double Layer Design Lining Precise Cut Easy Access Cables Dust Cover for Playstation 4 PS4 Slim Console (Black)
Today on Amazon for € 11.99
We hope we have helped you with these tips and tricks to combat the problem of noise and overheating of your PS4, and that the only sounds you hear in your games come from what you are playing.
