All MacBooks have a useful feature allowing us to connect to external displays while the built-in display is closed. They call it the closed-clamshell or closed-display mode. I use this mode almost every day because I can get access to the same computer at home or outside without adding bulk to my desktop. If you are looking for a clean home office setup, this is a great solution as well.
However, the problem is that my MacBook Pro 15 becomes really hot after a while, I just use it to write blog posts or browse some web pages. Moreover, I can still feel the heat when I put the MacBook to sleep, and the battery could drain out in just a few hours. I’ve tried all possible solutions including resetting the SMC and PRAM, disconnecting external monitors, closing all apps, turning off Bluetooth and turning off Power Nap feature. The issue is not fixed but it’s slightly better. Now my battery drains slower and the keyboard is just a little warm. However, those methods obviously ruined the point of putting your MacBook to sleep. I’d recommend you to shut down the system completely to prevent the heating issue.
You shouldn’t be worried about overheating because your MacBook has temperature sensors, so your MacBook will shut down automatically when it’s getting extremely hot.
Besides, you should also close unused apps and avoid connecting to 2 Thunderbolt displays at the same time. Using a MacBook stand will also help dissipate heat better, I’m using the BookArc stand from Twelve South. Make sure to place your MacBook in a dry and cool room, and don’t place anything near your laptop.
Do you have the same heating issue on your MacBook Pro? Share with us how you deal with it.
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chris says
if your problem is the heat of your mac in clamshell mode this stuff it’s useless. The stand it doesn’t refresh anything