All Sky Q users should follow simple rule this week, check your TV box now

The UK is currently experiencing an extreme May heatwave, with temperatures expected to reach over 35 degrees today, May 26. Whilst the record-breaking conditions are great news for getting the BBQ fired up and topping up the tan, it can be terrible for electronic devices, including TV set-top boxes.

Just like smartphones, laptops and Wi-Fi routers, when telly viewing gadgets get too hot, they can start to struggle and even shut down completely to bring temperatures back under control.

All electronics are susceptible to this problem, but Sky hopes its advice will prevent Sky Q users' viewing from being ruined by a TV blackout.

The company says simple changes can ensure set-top boxes stay cool in the heat, and one tip is to follow the 10cm rule. "Allow at least 10cm of space above and on both sides of the box vents," Sky said in a post on its website.

By clearing the area around the box, the components can get air circulating over them and prevent them from overheating.

One red flag which will prove a box is suffering is the sound of the fan.

"Like laptops, the internal fan and hard disk of a Sky box makes a bit of noise while it's on," Sky explained.

"If your Sky box is making more noise than normal, make sure it's not placed on a carpet or in an enclosed space, like a closed cabinet."

It's also a good idea not to place Sky Q on top of or underneath other devices, as these emit their own heat, which can then create even worse conditions.

If you are hearing a lot of noise or the box feels extremely hot to touch, it might be worth unplugging it for a few minutes, making sure it's placed in the best location and keeping it out of direct sunlight.

Finally, Sky says that if a box is positioned correctly and it's still too noisy, there might be a problem and customers may need to contact the company.

The heatwave is expected to last most of the week so make sure you keep yourself and your gadgets cool.