Do you notice that the PS4 makes a lot of noise while playing? Or is the console no longer working properly? Then you can do two things: sell it or open it once and clean it well inside. There is a good chance that the problem will disappear.

This article explains how to properly open the PlayStation 4 and what you need to know about cleaning. Fortunately, it is not all that difficult, so this job can be done within an hour. Make sure you have the right materials at home and then follow the steps below.

Supplies:

  • Compressed air
  • Cotton swabs or a (soft) toothbrush
  • Possibly isopropyl alcohol if you do a thorough cleaning
  • A dry cloth
    Philips screwdriver
    T8 or T9 Torx screwdriver (for the first PS4 model)

Opening and cleaning PS4

Before we begin, it’s a good idea to make sure the PlayStation 4 (whatever model you have) is actually turned off before unplugging it. This prevents possible damage because a game or app was still open or an external hard drive was connected.

Then clean the openings with some compressed air, about six inches away, such as all USB ports on the front and back. With a cotton swab or clean toothbrush, whether or not dipped in isopropyl alcohol, you can make short work of the stubborn dirt that may be present.

Now it’s time to open up the PlayStation 4 itself. For the old model you need a T8 or T9 Torx screwdriver for that; the top of the Pro and Slim, however, click right off. Clean the inside of the cover with a dry cloth. Now press the center of the fan with your finger and hold it well. Blow the fan clean, at an appropriate distance, with short gusts of wind from the compressed air canister. Do not run the fan as this can cause problems such as a short circuit.

Now use both screwdrivers to loosen the rear part. The metal plate must also be removed. You do that with the Torx screwdrivers. After removing the plate, use the compressed air again (keep the distance) to blow everything clean. You can also use the toothbrush for stubborn dirt, possibly with the help of isopropyl alcohol. You can also use a cotton swab to hold the fan in place so that it doesn’t move when you use compressed air.

After blowing clean, the console should be left alone for about half an hour. After that half hour you can put all the parts back. So keep the screws handy and put them in a place where you can easily find them.