Why Your Phone Overheats | And What You Can Do to Fix It

In today’s fast-paced digital world, our phones do more than ever from video streaming and gaming to managing business tasks and high-res photography. But with heavy use comes a common issue: overheating. At Westcoast Repairs, we frequently see customers concerned about their phones getting too hot. Here's what’s really happening and how you can prevent it.

Common Reasons Your Phone Overheats

1. Intensive App Usage

Apps that use heavy graphics (like games or video editors), background refreshes, or high processing power (e.g. video calls or live GPS) can make your phone work harder, generating heat in the process.

2. Environment and Direct Sunlight

Leaving your phone on your car dashboard, a sunny café table, or using it under direct sunlight can quickly lead to heat buildup especially in hot climates like Australia.

3. Faulty Charging Habits

Using low-quality cables, power banks, or charging overnight can cause overheating. Fast charging or wireless charging pads can also contribute if used continuously without breaks.

4. Software Bugs or Updates

Outdated software, corrupt apps, or recent updates can lead to excessive background activity or inefficient processing, which in turn raises the temperature.

5. Battery or Hardware Issues

If your battery is swollen, aging, or damaged or your internal components are not functioning properly overheating can be a red flag. This often happens in phones that have suffered from drops or water damage.

Signs Your Phone Is Overheating

• The phone feels unusually hot to touch, even when idle

• Apps start crashing or freezing

• Battery drains faster than normal

• The screen dims automatically without your input

• Camera app refuses to open (a built-in safeguard)

What You Can Do to Prevent Phone Overheating

Close Background Apps

Keep only necessary apps open. Background refresh drains your phone’s RAM and processor.

Avoid Direct Heat Exposure

Store your phone in a bag or shaded area, especially during summer or outdoor activities.

Use Certified Chargers

Always use certified and original cables or power adapters. Avoid overcharging your device or using third-party fast chargers.

Update Your Software

Install system updates and security patches. Bug fixes often include solutions for battery or heat management.

Remove Your Phone Case While Charging

Some bulky or rubber cases trap heat. Remove them while charging to allow proper ventilation.

When to Seek Professional Help

If your phone continues to overheat even when idle, it could signal:

• Battery swelling

• Charging port malfunction

• Motherboard or CPU issues

In such cases, it’s best to visit a trusted repair store. At Westcoast Repairs, we offer expert diagnostics for overheating issues, using genuine or OEM-quality parts to ensure safety and long-term performance.

Final Thoughts

A warm phone during heavy use isn’t always a cause for concern. But persistent overheating could be a sign your device needs attention. Whether you're in Perth or Darwin, drop by Westcoast Repairs for a quick check-up and fast, reliable solutions.