Fan running all the time mid 2008 model

[questionwonder]

I have a mid to late 2008 Macbook. Most of my use is online with Youtube and other video sites. In the last year to two years I've noticed that the fan will turn on pretty quickly after I start using the machine and will run at almost max rpms and then it will very rarely shut off. It just keeps running.
Does anyone know if there is anything I can do? I thought maybe there is some malware installed thats running and that's why the fan is on, but I don't think reinstalling the OS will help? Any thoughts on how to fix this?

 

[tom vilsack]

Try resetting your "SMC"


Shut down the computer.
Disconnect the MagSafe power adapter from the computer, if it's connected.
Remove the battery.
Press and hold the power button for 5 seconds.
Release the power button.
Reconnect the battery and MagSafe power adapter.
Press the power button to turn on the computer.

 

[jg321]

Also try taking the back cover off and give it a good clean inside. Can of compressed air is usually a good bet.

 

[brop52]

Check activity monitor. Look what's using your CPU.