I have a phat 80GB PS3 model CECHK06. It is on top of a TV shelf and plenty of space for air circulation. Don't seem to see dust on the PS3 especially the air vents.

Recently, I have been experiencing something like an error shutdown. The PS3 beeps and it powers off with the red light flashing. There is no yellow light or anything else.

So far I have been able to switch on again without a problem. I have been reading that it may be due to overheating but the thing is usually it happens after only a short while of switching on, even when the PS3 is switched on first time for the day (i.e. cold). After the error shutdown, I switch it on again and it runs fine - I go on with a game for an hour or so.

I do notice the fans going full blast though, although the PS3 does not seem to be very hot when I touch it.

Over the internet, many have sites suggest to reapply the thermal paste as a maintenance thing before it really goes YLOD. I would like to ask for other suggestions.

Anyone?