Summer heat and technology
Now that we’ve 
experienced our first stretch of days with temperatures in the mid-90s to 100 degree marks, it’s important to be mindful of the effect heat can have on our technology. Many electronics are vulnerable to overheating, which can occur even if you aren’t using your device (e.g., leaving your laptop in the car). Here are some tips to keep in mind about safeguarding your devices from heat this summer.
Did you know?
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, car windows act as a sort of greenhouse for cars, trapping sunlight and heat. If your car is parked in direct sunlight, it can easily reach internal temperatures of 131-172 degrees when temperatures are 80-100 degrees outside. The report continues to note that, “When the outside temperature is 83 degrees, even with the window rolled down 2 inches, the temperature inside the car can reach 109 degrees in only 15 minutes.”
With the advancement of today’s technology, electrical components may be more sensitive than ever. As a result, the Small Business Chronicle notes excessive heat will lower the electrical resistance of objects, increasing electrical current which can easily overload a device. Some devices, such as Apple iPhones and iPads, are designed to protect internal components by regulating temperature. If the device’s temperature threshold is exceeded, you may notice that your device stops charging, the display goes black, or you receive an error message saying that the device must cool down before it will operate.
Keep in mind
The ideal operating temperature for computers (not including smartphones) ranges from 50 degrees to 82 degrees. This is why it is important not to leave your electronics in the car during summer heat. Even if you don’t leave the device in a car, carrying it around with you for extended periods in the summer heat (e.g., a day at the beach) may still cause your device to work improperly.
Here are some other things to remember:
- Allow for airflow by making sure there is ample space around laptops and computers
- If you’re outside, keep your devices in the shade or covered when possible
- Don’t stack electronic devices on top of each other
- In case of emergency, shut the device down and wait until it is cool to the touch
- Do not charge the device if it is hot to the touch
- Do not place the device in a refrigerator for a quick cool down
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