Your laptop fan accumulates dust over time, restricting airflow and potentially causing thermal throttling. For routine cleaning, turn off and unplug the device, then use short bursts of electronics-safe compressed air through the vents. Lenovo recommends cleaning every three to six months.

Avoid using air compressors, which can damage fan blades, and do not spin the fan manually. For deeper cleaning, you may need to open the laptop, but this varies by model. Some machines, like the Dell Alienware m16 R2, require removing multiple components and screws.

Always consult the service manual. Dell warns against cleaning Element 31 thermal material with alcohol, as it can create conductive particles and cause electrical shorts. If unsure, consider professional service.