How to clean the fan on your PS5

Just like with a PC, it’s advisable to clean out the dust from your PlayStation 5 from time to time. Dust tends to collect in the fan that cools your console. If it gets too hot, it spins more quickly and therefore more loudly. At its worst, this can impact performance because the chip gets too hot and throttles down. To prevent this, I’ll show you how to remove and clean the fan.

Here’s what you need

You’ll need two tools for your PlayStation spring clean. First up is a security Torx screwdriver. The difference compared to a normal Torx is that the security attachments have a small hole in the middle. I also recommend an air pressure cleaner. It doesn’t matter whether it’s in a can or electric. I use these:

PC cleaning products

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IT Dusters CompuCleaner Xpert

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PC component tool

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iFixit Pro Tech Toolkit

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Five steps to a dust-free fan

In this guide, I’ll focus on cleaning the fan. All you need to do is remove the back of the PS5 – the side without the PlayStation logo. On the original PS5, lift the top of the cover slightly and slide it downwards. It should come off relatively easily.

With the PS5 Pro, you only need to remove the smaller top cover. Just pull the plate upward, facing the front of the console. The plates are set in place, so it takes a bit of force.

Now you can see the fan. Before you can unfasten it, you have to remove the fan inlet on the original PS5. This is the semi-circular, grooved part above the fan. You can just pull it upwards, but be careful not to break it off.

Next, remove the glued cover that sits over the fan connector. This is where the three fan cables go. Lift it up with your fingernails or a thin object.

Next, pull out the white plug. Don’t pull on the cables, otherwise you could rip them out of the plug. You can also use a small pair of long-nose pliers.

Once the connector’s removed, next up are the four fan screws. You’ll need the security Torx screwdriver. They’re different screws, so remember which one goes where.

Now you can remove the cover, take out the fan and clean it thoroughly – preferably outside. If it’s clogged, like this Reddit user’s, it may also be worth blowing out the cooling fins. But this involves additional steps. Here’s a video tutorial.

Once you’ve finished, reinstall the fan, replace the fan cover and tighten the screws. Then, plug in the fan connector and press the adhesive cover back on.

If you have the original PS5, you now insert the semi-circular fan slot element. It must first be inserted at the ends before you can press it down. Again, be careful not to break or bend it. Finally, put the console cover on. For the original PS5, you push it up from the bottom. For the PS5 Pro, you first put the side with the three wings on and then press down on the other side.

That’s it. Now your PlayStation 5 should easily last until the launch of the PS6.