Hardware hassles

Learn to detect common issues with your Mac’s hardware

41 Deal with an overheating Mac

If the fans on your Mac are constantly running, or it’s uncomfortably hot to the touch, there may be a hardware fault. Place the machine on a hard surface to allow better air circulation; Apple recommends a maximum operating ambient temperature of 95° F. If the fans are still running constantly, try performing an NVRAM reset (see

bit.ly/resetnvram). Noisy fans and overheating can be caused by software, such as Spotlight reindexing, so contact Apple Support before you take your Mac to a repair center.

42 What does this startup sound mean?

Macs sometimes beep on startup; the number and frequency of these beeps can help you understand an issue with your Mac. If you hear a beep every five seconds, no memory modules are detected; three beeps means the memory hasn’t passed the integrity check. If you hear three long, then three short beeps, the Mac’s firmware has been corrupted, and you need to take your computer to a repair center.

43 Detect a faulty charger

If your MacBook isn’t charging, check that its power adapter is correctly connected and try a different wall socket. If this fails, remove the charger and inspect the charging port on your MacBook to make sure there are no foreign bodies in it. Carefully examine your charger for any frayed or exposed wires. If you find anything, take the MacBook and charger straight to an authorized repair center. If the cables and port seem in order, try performing an SMC reset – see bit.ly/

restsmc for instructions.

44 Isolate hardware issues

Issues with your Mac, such as no sound, the display appearing incorrectly, or slow performance, can be caused by both hardware and software issues. If any error messages appear, make sure to copy them down exactly. Also note down the time they’re happening. Next, go to getsupport.apple.com on a working device to chat to Apple Support, which will be able to tell you if it sounds like there’s a hardware problem with your Mac.

45 Check your warranty

Visit checkcoverage.apple.com and enter your serial number to check if your device is in warranty or covered by the AppleCare Protection Plan.

In addition, the Uniform Commercial Code, which all states have adopted in some form, provides an automatic “implied warranty of merchantability,” which guarantees that consumer products are free of substantial defects and will function properly for a reasonable period of time.

What’s “reasonable” varies from state to state and depends on the product, but generally the period is limited to four years by law.