Reference number: CH001175

Can a computer get damaged if it gets too cold?

Question:

Can a computer get damaged if it gets too cold?

Answer:

A computer or laptop is more likely to become damaged from heat than it is cold. In fact a computer operates a lot better in cooler conditions. However, taking a computer that has been in a cold temperature to a warmer temperature, can cause condensation within the computer, which can cause damage. A good example of how this may happen, is leaving your laptop out in the car during winter over night and then moving it into a warm building and powering it up immediately.

To help prevent this type of situation from occurring, don't leave your laptop in a car for any length of time during cold or hot weather. When working in cold conditions or transporting your computer through colder weather, keep it in its laptop carrying case. If you're working in extreme cold weather (e.g. -5°c or lower) and moving the computer to a warmer room, we suggest letting the computer remain off for a few minutes before turning it on.

Finally, whenever working in any place with extreme weather, it's always a good idea to consult the computer documentation or manufacturer for their recommended operating temperatures. Not all laptops and computers are the same, and each component in them can react differently to temperature.

Additional information:

• See document CH000100 for information in determining how hot your processor is running.