kernel_task taking up 800% of CPU on MacBook Pro 16

When my MacBook is connected in closed-clamshell to my dual 2K monitors or my 4K tv, kernel_task quickly takes up to about 800% of CPU and slows everything down. The Mac is practically unusable when this happens.


I've already reset my SMC and NVRAM, and that didn't fix it. I also had the fans completely cleaned - they were covered in dust (there is no way to avoid dust where I live - unless I air condition my room and keep it closed at all times. ACing is going to cost a lot so that is not an option for me at the moment.) I thought getting the fans cleaned would help, but it didn't.


What else can I do? Should I take this in for repair? Sort of freaking at the moment.


My Mac:

  • 2019 MacBook Pro 16
  • 16GB RAM
  • Radeon Pro 5300M 4GB
  • macOS Big Sur 11.2.1


Here are two screenshots of the recorded temperatures at various sensors and my Activity Monitor.


Any help would be appreciated. Thank you.

MacBook Pro 16″, macOS 11.2

Posted on Feb 25, 2021 7:02 AM

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kernel_task taking up 800% of CPU on MacBook Pro 16

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