Will it hurt?

[lediskolove99]

Until I can get a new computer desk the only way I can hook everything up is to keep my computer on the floor, which is carpet. Now this may be a stupid question, but oh well. Someone told me that it's bad to do that  she that it will cause the computer to become overheated and shut down. Now I'm not sure if I believe this because the vents aren't on the bottom right? So what is it hurting?

But I didn't want to be wrong and risk it. Currently I have it on a monopoly game box (Only thing big enough I could think of)

But is it really going to hurt it?

[Carbon Dudeoxide]

The thing with carpets is that they don't transfer heat very well, so the heat is trapped in the computer.

It shouldn't be a problem. In fact, you can post your temperatures here if you would like:
http://www.computerhope.com/forum/index.php/topic,83105.0.html

[Calum]

The problem with keeping the computer on a carpet is mainly dust.
The heat doesn't have to transfer through the carpet, and if the vents are not on the bottom the carpet won't block airflow.
Keep it clean and dust regularly, it's not a problem.

[patio]

Find something sturdy enough to elevate it 4 to 6 inches...preferably of wood.

[x2543]

I have a desktop PC, I have the tower sitting on the carpet in my room next to my desk and it's never had a problem. Just don't block any of the vent holes coming out of the back and the side, if you have side holes and if you're worried about carpet, just get some stack of newspapers or old magazines and stick it under the tower making sure you still don't block any vent holes or whatnot.

[squall_01]

If your that worried stick a box fan next to it.

[Zylstra]

I think you will find that box fans are not as effective as just having a good amount of internal fans on high-heat generating components and two exhaust fans..
Many people keep computers on carpet. As long as you clean your computer out yearly (see http://www.computerhope.com/cleaning.htm for cleaning) and you are sure you have adequate cooling, you should be fine.
The link Carbon posted with a temperature monitoring program will do you good as well to make sure components are not overheating.

[squall_01]

I was told that it done okay.  No it wont replace that but still something else to try.

[Cityscape]

No, just keep the side and rear air vents clear.