I have an aging Inspiron 5100. With extra memory it’s been an “OK” laptop but it’s always run very, very hot – often this appeared to slow performance significantly until I found a forum where some onliners had figured out – with little help from Dell – that dust accumulation and bad ventilation was the main problem.
Elevating the back of the laptop and blowing out dust seemed to solve that problem. However it’s always been too hot to sit on my lap for long, and the adapter too hot to touch – almost dangerously hot. Neither battery or adapter were on the recall lists for similar products so I can’t imagine how hot the bad parts get!
To Dell’s credit they just replaced my power adapter at no charge, but the new one heats up too.
Maybe it’s time for a new computer.
Joe Duck 
If you find a good computer buy, let Talent Historical Society know. Our 5 year old computer just gave out and we re in the market for a new one.
For what it’s worth, I have an Inspiron 8600 with the same problem. Will try elevating and dust control, but if you get further info, please let me know.
A new one would break the bank and no amount of meditation, voodoo, or drink will heal the scars of frustration induced through Dell support.
Sorry to hear that the later models have the same problem SK. Google seems to have a lot of stuff under
dell inspiron overheats