Thermal shutdown on HP Pavilion Desktop

[Olivias_Mom]

Hi Folks!  

I bought this desktop at BestBuy a month ago (July 22).  For a couple of days, I've noticed that PowerPoint gets hosed and won't save or shut down.  I have to use the TaskManager to force close.  Of course, I lose some of what I'm working on.  Bummer.

Then this afternoon, the screen went completely blank.  I couldn't figure out what happened until I noticed the power switch on the tower was off.  When I hit the switch, I got the dreaded Thermal shutdown message.  GAAAAA!!!  I simply don't understand what's happening.  The vents aren't blocked as the tower sits on top of my filing cabinet. 

Other than the keyboard/mouse connection, I only have an HP monitor connected via HDMI and some speakers connected through the speaker port on the back.  I'm using the wired Ethernet connection to my router since I work from home.  

I store all my documents in the cloud (Probably a good thing - LOL) so the hard disk shouldn't be in overdrive.  

I'm afraid to leave it plugged in... let alone run overnight.  Do I need to get it serviced or what?  Can someone point me in the right direction?  

Thanks in advance!

Olivia's Mom

[old_geekster]

@Olivias_Mom, welcome to the forum.

There is no reason for you to fight this problem.  I can tell there is some frustration.  I suggest that you contact BestBuy's Geek Squad and tell them what is happening.  They should either fix the problem or replace the computer.  You shouldn't be having problems like this with a new computer.

Please click the Thumbs up + button if I have helped you and click Accept as Solution if your problem is solved.

[Olivias_Mom]

Thanks for the welcome.  🙂   I think I'll make a "guest appearance" at BestBuy tomorrow.  I'm outside of the "return" window, but I didn't expect to have problems this soon either.  I hope they can fix it.  

[old_geekster · Accepted solution]

You are welcome, @Olivias_Mom.  I don't think I want to get in your way.   They should fix it without any push back.  The Geek Squad is normally quite good.

[Olivias_Mom]

Hi @old_geekster!

Just closing the loop...

I went to BestBuy today, and you were right.  The Geek Squad is AWESOME!!!  It took me more time to drive there than it did for them to exchange my computer.  I walked out with a new HP and a great big smile.  How cool is that?  

Good thing I store my stuff in the cloud... I didn't have to worry about having a backup.  I'll just reinstall a few programs and be back in business.  

I appreciate your help.  Thanks again!

Olivia's Mom

[old_geekster]

You are very welcome, @Olivias_Mom.  It is always my pleasure.  Instances like yours are why I help on the Forums.  I like good outcomes.

[diamed-it]

I have bought three of this same model PCs and on two of them I have had that Thermal Event problem.

However, it is not constant. It's a random error. i don't really want to return this PC.

By the way one of them I had to return and get a new one because it never turned on. Seems like the power supply was dead even before the first use.

I don't recommend anyone to buy this PC.

[Olivias_Mom]

Hi @Diamed-it!

I'm sorry to hear you've had the same problem.  I can only imagine your angst... I only dealt with one (knock on wood)... and it made me most unhappy.  🙂

So far, my replacement has been fine.  I'm hoping that since it's been several months, it's okay.  I don't however leave it on at night.  After hearing your story, I may not leave it on "unattended" during the day.  

Is your current PC okay?