CPU Temperature Warning - Troubleshooting Guide
Purpose
Provide a troubleshooting guide for engineers when a CPU Temperature Warning alert is triggered on a Node/Server.
This KB helps engineers quickly identify the issue and perform initial remediation before escalation.
When to Use
Use this KB article when the monitoring system generates the alert:
CPU Temperature Warning
This alert typically occurs when the CPU temperature rises above the warning threshold but has not yet reached critical levels.
What the Alert Is
The CPU Temperature Warning alert indicates that the processor temperature is higher than normal operating conditions.
This can occur due to:
-
High CPU workload
-
Cooling system inefficiency
-
Fan speed issues
-
Airflow blockage
-
Environmental temperature increase
If ignored, this warning may escalate to a CPU Temperature Critical alert, which can cause system throttling or shutdown.
Alert Summary
The system sensors detect that the CPU temperature is approaching unsafe operating levels.
This warning acts as an early indicator allowing engineers to investigate before the system reaches a critical state.
Severity
Warning
Immediate investigation is recommended to prevent escalation.
L1 Engineer Actions
Follow these steps when the alert is received.
Step 1 – Verify Alert
Check the monitoring dashboard and confirm:
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Node hostname
-
Timestamp of alert
-
Temperature value
-
Alert severity
Step 2 – Wait and Monitor
Wait 25–30 minutes
Step 3 – Escalate if Alert Persists
- Create an internal ticket
- Inform L2 Engineer
Step 4 – Documentation
After confirming with L2:
Update the Issues Master Sheet
L2 Engineer Actions
If the issue persists after L1 checks, escalate to L2.
Step 1 – Check CPU Load in Detail
Investigate high CPU utilization or abnormal workloads.
Step 2 – Verify BIOS / BMC Fan Profile
Check if the fan profile is configured correctly in:
-
BIOS
-
BMC / IPMI settings
Ensure the system is not running in low fan speed mode.
Step 3 – Analyze Workload
Check if Schedule jobs OR consumption of workload are causing sustained high CPU usage.
Investigate:
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Running applications
- Cron Jobs / SLURM Jobs
-
Resource utilization patterns
Step 4 – Verify Airflow Obstruction
Inspect the physical environment:
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Blocked air intake
-
Faulty rack cooling
-
Improper cable routing affecting airflow
Step 5 – Escalate to OEM
If the warning persists after troubleshooting:
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Collect sensor logs
-
Record node serial number
-
Capture temperature readings
Raise a case with the hardware OEM for further investigation.
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