Preventative maintenance and easy cleaning of the PlayStation 5 console. In my case, I used a compressor to thoroughly blow out the dust.
Tools Needed: A T8 Security Torx screwdriver (standard T8 won't work as it needs the center hole), a soft brush (like a paintbrush or toothbrush), and optionally a vacuum or canned air.
Safety First: Fully power down and unplug all cables. Remove the base stand if it is attached.
1. Remove the Side Plates
Top Plate (Logo Side): Lay the console down with the PlayStation logo facing up. Lift the corner with the logo slightly and slide the entire panel toward the bottom of the console.
Bottom Plate: Flip the console over and repeat the process for the other side.
2. Remove the Fan Grille and Cables
Unscrew the Grille: Use your T8 Security Torx to remove the four screws holding the silver fan grille. Crucial: These screws are different lengths—track their exact positions for reassembly.
Remove the Grille: Lift the silver grille and the black plastic intake piece next to it.
Do not remove any stickers, especially the warranty seal further in.
Disconnect the Fan: Gently wiggle the white plastic connector upward until it detaches. Warning: never don't pull thin wires themselves, to avoid tearing them.
3. Clean the Fan and Cooler
Remove the Fan: Lift the fan unit straight out of the housing.
Clean the Cooler: With the fan removed, you can see the heat sink fins (the "cheese grater" looking part). Use a soft brush to dislodge dust and a vacuum or canned air to pull it out.
Clean the Fan: Brush the dust off each individual fan blade. Hold the blades still if using compressed air to prevent them from spinning at high speeds, which can generate static or damage the motor.
Dust Catchers: While the plates are off, vacuum the two triangular "dust catcher" holes on the side of the console.
4. Reassembly
Reinstall the Fan: Place the fan back in its cavity and reconnect the white power plug.
Replace Stickers and Grille: Re-apply the black adhesive cable cover. Place the silver grille back on and re-insert the four screws in their original positions.
Snap Plates Back: Slide the white side panels back on until they click into place.