The Red Rings of Death, often abbreviated RRoD, are the bane of the Xbox 360 gaming community. Short of buying one of the new models (which will run you at least $300), there’s no way to be completely immune to the RRoD. However, you can avoid the RRoD by following some simple Xbox 360 tips like the ones found below.

Avoid Marathon Sessions

Though playing games for 8 hours at a time is fun, it’s not good for your 360. I recommend playing for no longer than 4 or 5 hours at a time. If you want to keep playing, at least give your console a break and turn it off for 20 minutes or so. If you ever hear your 360’s fans whirring louder than usual, turn off the console immediately and let it cool off.

Clean Your Console

Especially if you have pets, your 360 can get pretty filthy. Hair and dirt particles get stuck in the faceplate and fan guard, and cause overheating issues. Overheating is the #1 cause of the Red Rings of Death. So if you want to avoid RRoD, clean your console every once in a while.

Provide Good Airflow

The Xbox 360’s built-in fans are meant to circulate airflow around and keep the console cool. However, sometimes they need some help. Putting your console near a window or drafty area is a good idea, and can help avoid RRoD. If that’s not possible, try placing your console on a shelf or something, so that it’s off the ground. Never leave your 360 on carpet, at least not for extended periods of time. Carpet cuts off airflow to the console, and also makes it easier for hair and dirt to get into the console, causing it to overheat.

Change the Consoles Position

Most people keep their consoles in a vertical position. Surprisingly enough, leaving your Xbox 360 in this position actually blocks bottom vent, restricting airflow. I recommend switching up the position of your 360 every once in a while to avoid the Red Rings of Death. Put it horizontally, or even try putting it upside down vertically (with the hard drive on the bottom).

Buy an Intercooler or Small Fan

Giving your Xbox 360 extra fans is a great way to avoid RRoD. Intercoolers work well, and are around $20 new for the best model. If you’d rather not buy an extra fan for your 360, use a desktop fan or even a box fan, and just put it near the console. This will provide extra airflow and help keep the console’s heat down.