To keep your MacBook clean and performing at its best, it’s a good idea to do periodic maintenance. Of course, you should do this for both the internal features and the cosmetic appearance. MacBook fan cleaning and thermal paste replacement are among the best options for improving your Mac’s performance.
So how should the MacBook fan be cleaned? Should thermal paste be changed for MacBook heating problems?
We have prepared a short and useful guide. Let's start reviewing!
How to Clean MacBook Fan Maintenance?
MacBook fan maintenance cleaning requires loosening the screws of the outer case and removing the cover. Therefore, we recommend that you get help from an expert. Otherwise, you may damage the delicate accents or have difficulty in putting back the parts you cleaned.
For MacBook fan cleaning;
- The device is completely opened using a very thin tip screwdriver.
- The fan block is carefully separated from the Mac and the dust and dirt accumulated on the fan grill is cleaned with a fine brush. Micro cloths can be used for details.
- The fan is removed from the block it is connected to and the surrounding area is cleaned. The thermal paste and pads around the fan are replaced.
- Also, if there is dried thermal paste on the motherboard and processor, it is carefully cleaned. New thermal paste is applied.
- Check if there is any oil in the fan motor. The oiled motor is cleaned.
- Dirt and dust accumulated in the anti-heating ventilation filter are cleaned.
- All parts are carefully reassembled.
It is not necessary to renew the MacBook thermal paste with every cleaning. However, if you do this cleaning once a year, replacement is recommended. Because in MacBook, thermal paste ensures that the heat of the processor and graphics card is transmitted to the fan block. When replacement is made, it is recommended that the newly applied thermal paste is of first quality so that you do not experience any problems.
So what does thermal paste for Mac look like? How to remove existing and dried thermal paste? Some professionals prefer to remove thermal paste with a cotton swab tool. Like this: 
After removing the old and dried thermal paste, you can place the new paste on the cooler with the help of a special injector. Be careful when doing this and do not spread the paste around.
What is used to clean the MacBook Air fan?
The materials required when cleaning the MacBook Pro fan are as follows:
- First of all, you need a very thin screw, because Mac screws are much smaller than the screws you are used to.
- A fine, soft-bristled cleaning brush is needed to remove dust that accumulates between small parts. A flat-tipped brush will allow you to reach the fine edges.
- In order to replace the thermal paste on your Macbook, you need a tool to inject the new paste and thermal paste.
- You need a microfiber cloth to clean the dust. But don't think of thick cleaning cloths. There are specially made paper-thin cloths that won't scratch the surface to wipe the parts during fan cleaning. You can clean by gently rubbing the damp paper.
Things to consider when cleaning the MacBook fan
When cleaning your MacBook Pro fan, pay attention to the following:
- Never use a soft, lint-free cloth or brush.
- Do not use cloths or brushes with abrasive surfaces.
- Do not use aerosol sprays or cleaning materials that contain bleach.
- Do not spray any cleaning materials directly onto the device.
- Make sure the device is not plugged in while cleaning, and shut down the Mac before you begin.
When should MacBook Pro fan cleaning be done?
First of all, let's ask this: Should you clean the fan of your MacBook Pro? MacBook fan maintenance is especially preferred by people who have the following problems:
- MacBook Pro and Air overheating
- Hearing loud fan noise from MacBook
- MacBook overheating and shutting down
- MacBook freezes frequently
If you are experiencing the above issues, a good MacBook fan maintenance may alleviate your problems. Also check out our other recommendations for improving performance on your MacBook .
Why is it important to clean the fan on a MacBook?
Quick answer : Because thermal paste starts to dry as you use your device and cannot transfer heat effectively.
Long answer : When the heat generated cannot be removed from the processor, the device starts to overheat and the CPU starts to experience a decrease in performance. Remember: for computer components that do not have moving parts, such as the CPU, heat is a factor that significantly shortens the life of the device. If you continue to use your device while it is hot, the CPU life will shorten much faster than normal. In addition, the sudden increase in temperature can negatively affect the health of your MacBook.
The Last Step to Protecting Your MacBook: Get a MacBook Protective Case
If you care about taking good care of your MacBook, get a KraftCover right after cleaning the fan. MacBook Pro protective cases and MacBook Air protective cases protect your device perfectly from scratches and bumps thanks to their hard shell. The extra fabric or leather covering we use on the top cover allows you to add your own style to your Mac.
Now, meet the next-generation MacBook sleeve formula: a hard shell in a dual cover for full protection. Your style in the top cover.
You can browse the MacBook leather sleeve collection , explore the SHINE and ESSENTIALS collections and discover fabric-covered MacBook protection alternatives. Our new carbon fiber MacBook protector is also waiting for you with an introductory coupon!
