Subwoofer getting hot during use is normal. However, it shouldn’t get too hot. If your subwoofer is getting hotter than usual, it means it has overheating issues. This may be caused due to various reasons such as improper placement, poor ventilation, poor connection, and others.
Regardless of the reason, it needs to be fixed. Otherwise, your subwoofer won’t last long.
In this guide, we will include both causes and solutions on how hot should a subwoofer get.
Why Is My Subwoofer Getting Hot?
To fix the overheating issue, you need to first identify the root cause of the problem.
There can be plenty of reasons that are causing your subwoofer to overheat. Let’s take a look at the possible reasons.
- Poor ventilation
Having a poor cooling system can cause your subwoofer to get overheated during use.
Improper ventilation causes the heat to build up inside the subwoofer, which then gets overheated. Some subwoofers are equipped with fans and they still get heated.
This is because the fan is not working properly.
Also Read: What does clipping mean with subwoofers?
- Cheap subwoofer
It is needless to say that high-quality subwoofers are better than cheaper ones.
High-end models have an efficient cooling system that prevents them from getting heated. This is something that you won’t find in cheap quality subwoofers.
This should explain why those subwoofers get heated faster than other models.
- Malfunctioning or overloaded amplifier
The amplifier is needed to supply power to the subwoofer.
In case, the amplifier starts malfunctioning, it can cause it to overheat.
This can also happen if the amplifier gets overloaded.
- The cables connecting the subwoofer are damaged
A subwoofer is connected to an amplifier with cables.
If the cables are damaged or not connected properly, it can result in loss of power.
This is one of the very common reasons that cause subwoofers to overheat.
Also Read: How to connect a subwoofer without a sub out
- Improper placement of the subwoofer
Some users tend to place their subwoofers in a small, enclosed place.
For example: in a closet or cabinet.
This can prove to be damaging for your subwoofer.
Since the device is placed in an enclosed area, the heat cannot be produced by the device cannot escape.
This in return causes the subwoofer to get overheated.
- The subwoofer has power issues
Even power issues can lead to subwoofer overheating.
This is caused when the unit is receiving too much power or insufficient power.
To prevent this from happening, you should check both the power and voltage received by your subwoofer.
- Playing subwoofer for extended hours
If you have been using your subwoofer for hours without break, it will cause the device to get heated.
The constant vibrations coming from the device generate enough heat to overheat the device.
This is why you should take short breaks in between.
This will help keep the device’s temperature low.
Also Read: Do subwoofers wear out?
- Short circuit
If there’s a short circuit in your subwoofer, it can cause heating issues.
Subwoofer short circuits usually happen due to disconnected or damaged wires inside the device. The best solution to this is to get the wires replaced.
In case, they are not damaged, make sure to connect them properly.
- Old or damaged subwoofer
If your subwoofer is old or damaged, expect it to get heated frequently. No matter, how expensive your subwoofer is, it has a limited lifespan.
There will come a time when your subwoofer won’t function properly.
It will not only get overheated but will have other issues too.
In this case, you can either get a new subwoofer or use the old one less frequently.
Is It Normal For Subwoofers To Get Warm
This is a very common question asked by people.
All subwoofers get warm during use. The constant vibrations produced by the device causes it to get hot.
This is why some subwoofers come with cooling fans inside them.
However, there’s a big difference between a subwoofer getting warm and overheated.
A Subwoofer getting hot during use is normal, but if it gets hotter than usual, it is a problem.
If your subwoofer is getting overheated frequently, it means it has some issues.
The overheating is caused due to the reasons mentioned above. Ignoring this issue can reduce the life expectancy of your device.
How To Prevent A Subwoofer From Overheating
Now that you know the possible causes of subwoofer heating, let’s talk about the solutions to try.
There are quite a few things you can try depending on the reason that’s causing the issue.
- Give it a break
Using your subwoofer for hours can cause it to heat up.
Give it some time to cool down and then use it again. If you keep playing it non-stop, it might get damaged or malfunction due to excessive heat.
Also Read: How do I know if my subwoofer blew?
- Check the power source of the subwoofer
Make sure that your subwoofer is getting the right amount of power.
If the power is more, cut down the voltage. However, if your subwoofer is receiving less power, you should increase the voltage.
- Replace the faulty parts
If there’s an issue with the components of your subwoofer, you should either get it fixed or replace them.
Take it to a professional and see if the components can be repaired.
If not, get new components and replace the damaged ones.
This will cost you less than buying a new subwoofer.
- Relocate the subwoofer somewhere cool
If your subwoofer is placed near sources of heat, it can get overheated.
You should consider replacing it somewhere cool for example your bedroom.
Place it in a location where it doesn’t get direct sunlight or heat.
Also Read: Where do you put a subwoofer with soundbar?
- Call a professional
Fixing a subwoofer at home is not everyone’s cup of tea.
Call a professional and tell them about the heating issue.
They will help troubleshoot the problem and get your device fixed within no time.
How to fix subwoofer overheating?
Subwoofer overheating is a common problem that can lead to many serious issues, such as driver failure and costly repairs. Fortunately, there are a few simple steps you can take to help Subwoofer Overheating Fix.
First, make sure the environment around your subwoofer is well ventilated. Keep it away from direct sunlight or other heat sources and make sure there is plenty of air circulation around it.
Additionally, reduce the level of bass that comes out of your system by turning down the volume or using a crossover to limit low frequencies.
You should also consider installing an external fan near the subwoofer to cool both the speaker cone and its motor structure. Finally, check for any obstructions around the subwoofer which could be blocking its ventilation ports and restricting airflow.
Conclusion
Subwoofer heat should be taken seriously. Running a sub too hot can cause it to malfunction and even fail.
Proper ventilation can help ensure the subwoofer stays at an optimal temperature.
For those who suspect their sub may be running too hot, using a thermometer or heat gun can give an accurate reading of their subwoofer’s temperature.
Taking these steps will extend the life of your subwoofer and improve its performance for years to come.